Beaded Letters
A large, sparkling monogram is a great way to personalize a present. Tied here with ribbons, the letters are easily transformed into ornaments.

Tools and Materials
Letters template (omit leaves and berries in letters if desired)
20-gauge wire (18 inches per ornament)
Seed beads
Round-nosed pliars

Beaded Letters How-To
1. Choose a letter template or use another font. Enlarge or reduce template to desired size on a photocopier. 

2. Cut 20-gauge wire to size; 18 inches is generally a good starting length. Make a loop at one end with round-nosed pliers. Transfer seed beads to wire, leaving 3 inches of wire unbeaded (to allow for sharp turns in the shape), and loop the wire at the other end. 

3. Following template, shape the beaded wire. Cut off excess wire at one end, leaving about 1/2 to 3/4 inch exposed wire, and loop it with pliers. For two-piece letters, attach pieces with 30-gauge wire, as shown. Shape 20-gauge wire into a hook.

Beaded Star Ornaments
A Christmas tree covered with a few dozen beaded stars will sparkle like the night sky. Vary the size, color, and shape of the beads -- as well as the sizes of the stars themselves -- to add visual interest.

Tools and Materials
Star template
20-gauge wire (18 inches per ornament)
Seed beads
Round-nosed pliars

Beaded Star Ornaments How-To
1. Choose any star template of your liking. Enlarge or reduce template to desired size on a photocopier. 

2. Cut 20-gauge wire to size; 18 inches is generally a good starting length. Make a loop at one end with round-nosed pliers. Transfer seed beads to wire, leaving 3 inches of wire unbeaded (to allow for sharp turns in the shape), and loop the wire at the other end. 

3. Following template, shape the beaded wire. Cut off excess wire at one end, leaving about 1/2 to 3/4 inch exposed wire, and loop it with pliers. Shape 20-gauge wire into a hook.