Light Bulb Snowman

Before you throw away that burned out incadescent light bulb consider two things. One, it could become a collector's item soon once all of these energy-saving-new-fangled-break-them-and-call-HazMat-for-disposal bulbs are in place everywhere. And two, it could become a clever tree decoration. If you like idea number two, here is how to put it together.

You'll need:

Light bulb
Craft paints - white, black, optional: red, yellow, brown
Paintbrushes - 1 small, 1 large
Craft or floral wire about 12" long
Baby sock
Quick-drying glue
Scissors
Needle and thread

1. Paint the glass part with two coasts of white paint.

2. Paint eyes, nose, mouth, and tree-limb type arms, leaving space at the top of the glass for the hat rim. If you want a little more control, it might be easier to use a black fine tipped marker for the details.

3. Cut the top off the sock, the part that goes over the ankle, but be sure it is long enough to cover the metal part of the bulb.

4. Place the sock top inside-out, down over the metal top of the bulb. Wrap one end of the wire around the sock and at the metal base then make a loop and wrap the other end around the metal and sock in the opposite directioin. This will be the hanger. Anchor the wire and sock with a little glue if necessary.

5. Pull the sock up over the metal and, allowing the wire loop to be exposed, stitch the sock closed. This makes the hat for your snowman.

6. Use the rest of the sock to make a little scarf and glue in place.

Now don't you feel better? You recycled an old light bulb and didn't have to call HazMat!