Flower Bead Spray Made From Soda Cans

Hello everyone, it's Melody (aka KauaiMelody) and you can visit me at http://cricutmelody.blogspot.com/.  I am so happy you stopped by for some inspiration to fuel your creative mojos.  The project I would like to share with you today is a Flower Bead Spray made from soda cans.  I placed the spray on a wrapped gift for a friend.  Don't you think it adds a special touch and gives it an extra punch?

Now here is the list of supplies you will need.

Cricut Info & Supplies Used:

Designed by: Melody

Cricut Machines Used: Cuttlebug

Cricut Cartridges Used: n/a

Other Supplies Used:  Provocraft Floral Dies, prepared soda cans, 26 gauge silver wire, crystal beads, clear gems, pearls, Stickles, Glossy Accents, Glue Gun, sharp instrument or small hole puncher for flower centers.

Let's get started by preparing the soda cans. . .

Soda Can Preparation: (For added safety, you can wear goggles andrubber gloves)

1.  Rinse out soda can and shake out.

2.  Poke starting cut with exacto knife, along top side and bottom.

3.  Cut aluminum around circumferences, using starting cut, at top and bottom with scissors.

4.  With scissors, trim off raggedy edges, and cut rectangle to the size you want.

5.  Rinse any sticky stuff and dry.

6.  You can further smooth edges with sandpaper or an emery board.

7.  Now use the aluminum as you would paper in your Cuttlebug.

Next, you will need your Cuttlebug, Provocraft Floral Diecut Set, and your prepared aluminum.

Cuttlebug "Sandwich" (starting from the bottom)

Plate A

Plate B

Diecut blades up

aluminum

Plate B

Cut 3 small flowers, 3 medium and 3 large

You will need 26 gauge silver wire.  Measure an arms length and fold in half.

You have now made your first loop for your spray. Now slide a bead towards the end of the loop.

When you get to the end of the loop, twist the bead and wire until you have the length you like.

It is as easy as 1 2 3, Loop, Slide and Twist.  Now repeat these three steps, making two more loops.

Continue until you have made a spray with 3 beads. Congratulations - they look beautiful!

Now make a new spray with 3 pearls, just like you made your first one.

Your third spray will be made with the 3 small soda can flowers, making center holes first.

And finally, make your fourth spray, layering the middle and large flowers,making center holes first.

You now have 4 beautiful sprays, and it is time to twist them all together at the base.

When all four are twisted you can adjust the "branches" and place it on your package.

Remember to admire your Flower Bead Spray, before you give it away.

And one last time  for kicks and giggles.

Tips:

After making the center hole, I like to cut a slit up to the hole (but not too close) so the wire twists neatly close to the center.

When you glue a gem to the center, make sure you leave a tiny space for the wire to pass through.

Remember you can make these uniquely yours (stickle, emboss, alcohol ink etc. to your liking).

Questions???

If you have any questions, leave them in the comment section, and I will answer them for you.

Thank you so much for stopping by the Cricut FANatics Blog, one of my favorite places to chill and get inspired.  I look forward to designing and sharing more projects with you again.  

Joyful Crafting  Always,

Melody