Snow Globe

Project Requirements

Materials Provided:

  • (1) Snow Globe Base (prepared from 2″x6″ lumber)

  • 1) Clear Snow Globe Insert

  •  (1) Fake snow/Glitter

  • 3D print the decorative elements you’d like to place inside the snow globe.

Click on each section below to learn about this project. Happy building!

Colorful thread.

Step 1: Preparing the Wooden Base

Prepare a piece measuring:
– Width: 4 1/8″
– Length: 4 1/8″
– Thickness: 1″ (plane to 1” from 2″x6″ lumber or any stocked wood)
Use the table saw or miter saw to cut to size.

Step 2: Drilling the Center Hole

Create the through-hole using the drill press.
– Bit size: at least 1″
– Clamp securely before drilling
– Center the hole on the block

Step 3: Routing the Snow Globe Pocket

Create the circular recess for the globe.
Tools and settings:
– Table Router
– Freud 50-116 bit
– Depth: ~1.5″
– Woodshop Jig (see example)
Procedure:
– Insert the base piece into the jig and secure it using the wooden insert and the dowels
– Align the drilled hole over the bit
– Rotate the workpiece around the jig to form the circular pocket
– Stop at the desired depth and profile

Step 4: Shaping into a Hexagon

Shape the outer profile for aesthetics.

Procedure:
– Use jig to mark/align corners
– Trim four corners using a bandsaw or table saw, using the cutting jig.
– Result is a hexagon profile
Optional: sand for finish quality and route the sharp edges

You can use the table saw using the same process.

[Credit: Gene Gerber]

Make a hole in the external snowglobe cover.
– 3D print and hot glue decorative pieces on the inner snowglobe cap.
– Put the fake snow/glitter in the globe.
– Fill the globe with tap water, secure, and make sure not to drain any glitter in the sink.
– Insert the LED strip through the hole and between the inner and outer globe caps.
– Insert globe into recessed pocket
– Verify fit and leakage.