Homemade Christmas Gifts: Festive Faux Ice Blocks

SUBMITTED BY: MARIE M

These blocks are so cute and easy to make. They make a great gift to anyone and everyone. They are so versatile. You can make them say just about anything.

Some cute ideas are:
* ... define good
* Naughty or Nice
* Wise Men Still Seek Him
* Believe
or you can make a Nativity scene.

All you need is:
* a clear security block from Lowe's. (Some have a pre-drilled hole in them where you can put a strand of Christmas lights in.)
* a roll cute ribbon ( I like the wired kind the best.)
* a pre-cut vinyl sticker (we make ours on a cri-cut but you can buy them at joanns or michaels)

You just apply your sticker to the blocks surface, add your ribbon and you're done!

Another cute Christmas gift is to make plates with vinyl sayings as well. You just cut out or stencil what you want to put on the plate and stick it. I like to go to a pottery place and have them glazed so that you can wash them in the dishwasher. But it isn't really a necessity. Or I've also tried buying a clear glass plate and paint the back of the plate with glass paint. Then after I've made my stencil I stick it on with tape and paint the etching paste on top of it. I usually leave it on for a few days and then peel it off. It makes for a really nice effect. You can also use the etching paste to make customized baking dishes. I guess you could give them as Christmas gifts as well. I usually make them as wedding presents. You will never have to worry about someone not returning your dish again.