Description
This pattern makes an actual life-size beaded Christmas cracker. I have called it a box because it pulls apart, so can be used to store things. Or, as I intended, used as an actual Christmas cracker. So, you can fill it with the gifts you would like to give and receive!
Materials
For the full-size version, I used size 10 Delicas. You will need four different colours. The pattern gives you the exact quantities.
If you want a smaller cracker, or if you are not a fan of size 10 Delicas, this also works with the size 11s. Or, you could go really tiny and use size 15 beads if you enjoy working small scale.
Size
With the size 10 Delicas, the finished size of the cracker is 10″ (25cm) long and 3.5″ (9cm) wide. So, this is big enough to fit the traditional hat, joke and small gift.
The cracker design means that you could also add a ‘snap’ through the centre if you want to get really authentic!
Techniques
The beaded Christmas cracker is made entirely in Peyote stitch. You will be using the tubular and circular variations.
I have included technique reminders in the pattern instructions. But I suggest that you should feel comfortable with the following techniques before you try this:
- increasing and decreasing
- tubular peyote
- reading a peyote pattern chart
If you don’t feel confident with all these, don’t be put off. You can check my free tutorials for really detailed instructions to help you learn each technique. So, all you need to do is put in a little practice first, then you’ll be ready to make your beaded Christmas cracker.
I am also on hand at the end of an email if you really get stuck!
About the Beaded Christmas Cracker Box
I have referred to my beaded Christmas cracker as a box because it uses the principles of beaded boxes. By doing this, I was able to create a cracker that really pulls apart. It also sits together well enough to remain ‘whole’ until you separate it.
I chose to make mine life-size because I wanted to be able to fit a proper little gift inside it. So, you can see some bead tubes and packs in the image. Small chocolates will also fit… Or, indeed, any other little gift of your choice.
The pattern instructions also include some alternative greetings and pattern designs for the decorative area. So, you could add some snowflakes, or stockings, or design your own.
I plan to make one of these for each of my family, so we’re going to have a very special Christmas table! I’ll add more photos as I manage to complete more crackers…
