Just like the real thing, no two of our wax snowflakes are exactly alike. To create them, we used a special cookie cutter set that contains separate pieces for making cutouts. Choose wax with a honeycomb finish, which has a pretty pattern and texture. Hang the flakes on a tree or in a window.

For any of these projects, you need only master a few basic techniques. Find 8 1/2-by-16 3/4-inch sheets of beeswax-and many of the other materials-at crafts stores. Store leftover sheets and your creations in a cool, dry place.

Tools and Materials

Colored beeswax sheets
Baking sheet
Hair dryer
Metal cookie cutters
Cotton wicking
Cocktail picks
Flat toothpicks
Silver cord
Thumbtack
Utility knife
Ruler

Cutting Shapes

Place a wax sheet on baking sheet; apply low heat from hair dryer. Cut 4 or 6 shapes (depending on the thickness you want) with a cookie cutter. You'll layer the shapes to create a more substantial figure.

Attaching Wicks and Strings

To make a candle, align a length of wicking down the center of one of your shapes, leaving about 1/2 to 1 inch of space at the bottom and allowing 1/2 inch to extend over the top. If you'll be placing the candle on a dessert, align a pick (use cocktail picks for larger candles and flat toothpicks for smaller ones) at the bottom, leaving a bit of space between wick and pick. Lay another shape on top, and press together with fingertips, beginning at the center and working outward. Repeat to join remaining layers, adding equal numbers on both sides of the wick. When all shapes are in place, apply low heat from a hair dryer; press again. For an ornament, sandwich a looped piece of cord between the innermost layers, and adhere as above.