Learn how to create a shadow box with faux snow and starry lights!
Shadow boxes are always a popular project, but adding vinyl and lights can make them even more beautiful! And this version has an even more special touch because it’s a shadow box with fake snow! I’ll show you how to add the light, fluffy stuff (that won’t melt inside of the box, yay!) without making a mess this holiday season!
The full step-by-step video showing you exactly how to create your own faux snow shadow box was part of Maker Academy Weekend 2024. Get a pass to watch all 18 workshops, each with a printable handbook, transcript, audio files, design files, and support with a Maker Academy Weekend 2024 VIP pass!
Did you know ADVANCE with JenniferMaker annual members get a free 2024 VIP pass and instant access to the 2024 Maker Academy Weekend projects? Join now!
Adding lights and fake snow to a layered shadow box might sound daunting, but my tips and tricks will make it easy!
The first tip for an easier project (in my opinion) is to use a cutting machine to make the intricate cuts. Yes, you can print the included PDF files and make shapes to cut by hand with a craft knife, but save that time and patience for later! Using a cutting machine with quality cardstock (cheaper papers can rip and cut incorrectly, so I recommend the kind of paper linked below) will be much easier!
I used my Cricut Maker 3, but the files for this winter shadow box can be cut with any Explore series machine (like the Cricut Explore Air) or the Venture. The details are a little delicate to scale down for a Joy, though, like Santa’s sleigh, reindeer, and cardinals depending on the cut file you use.
And once everything is cut, assembling a shadow box with fake snow is similar to other projects with a few special details. In the video, I’ll show you how to add faux snow to the bottom of the shadow box between the correct layers, make the fairy lights peek through the sky, and add the vinyl design. I got my faux snow from the craft store, but I have the same stuff linked below in the material list, or check out your local Dollar Tree options!
You can even add a personalized message or family name following my Cricut Design Space tutorial! I hope you’ll use your favorite version of my different designs to make your own little shadow box for your Christmas decor or winter fun. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Let me show you how to make a shadow box with fake snow! This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link I will earn a small commission but it won’t cost you a penny more, there is no additional cost)! Read my full disclosure policy.
Materials to Make Snow Shadow Boxes With Light-Up Stars
View my Amazon shopping list for the exact items I used!
- One (1) 8.5″ x 11″ White Shadow Box Frame
- One (1) Sheet of 12” x 12” Dark Blue 65 lb Cardstock (I used Cobalt Blue) (alternative)
- One (1) Sheet of 12” x 12” Brown 65 lb Cardstock
- Three (3) Sheets of 12” x 12” 65 lb White Cardstock
- Five (5) Sheets of 12″ x 12″ Permanent Vinyl (I Used White, Yellow, Red, Brown, and Blue)
- One (1) Sheet of Cricut Shimmer Gold Vinyl (alternative shimmer vinyl)
- Two (2) Strands of LED FairyStarry String Lights (I used Warm White)
- One (1) Package of Fake Snow
- StandardGrip Transfer Tape (alternative link)
- StrongGrip Transfer Tape
- 1/4” Thick Double-Sided Adhesive Foam Tape (adds dimension between layers, unlike craft glue)
- Small Zots Glue Dots (for attaching the battery pack)
- A way to cut your cardstock and vinyl – I’m using the Cricut Maker 3, but you can also use the original Maker, the Explore series machines, or the Venture.
- Cricut Green StandardGrip Machine Mat – 12″ x 12″ (alternative link)
- Brayer
- Spatula
- Scraper
- Weeding Tool (for popping out small cutouts from intricate areas and lifting edges of transfer tape)
- Tweezers (optional)
- Parchment Paper
- Clear Tape
- Scissors
- Isopropyl Alcohol (optional to clean your shadow box glass) -AND-
- Lint-Free Cloth
- Design #678 – My free SVG/PDF/DXF design files are available in my free resource library (get the password by filling out the form at the bottom of this page) or get additional access to the workshop video and printable workbook by getting a 2024 VIP Pass to Maker Academy Weekend or by joining the ADVANCE with JenniferMaker program as an ANNUAL member!
How to Make A Shadow Box With Fake Snow and Light Up Stars!
The detailed step-by-step assembly video on how to make a faux snow shadow box was available to watch for free for 24 hours during Maker Academy Weekend 2024, held online November 7-10, 2024. Get access to the Maker Academy Weekend 2024 videos, printable handbooks, and design files with a 2024 VIP Pass to Maker Academy Weekend or by joining the ADVANCE with JenniferMaker program as an ANNUAL member!
Answers to Your Questions About My Shadow Box With Fake Snow Tutorial
Q: Where is your tutorial for this project?
A: This is a special project we made for our free Maker Academy Weekend 2024 event! A complete and detailed step-by-step video premiered during the event November 7-10, 2024. You can get access to the video tutorial and printable handbook that details how to make this great project if you get a 2024 VIP Pass to Maker Academy Weekend or by joining the ADVANCE with JenniferMaker program as an ANNUAL member which comes with other perks and bonuses, too!
Q: How do you make a shadow box step by step?
A: To make this shadow box with light up stars and fake snow, follow the video for details. I also have a tutorial with basic steps for putting a layered shadow box together with lots of good tips!
Q: How do you put vinyl on a shadow box?
A: Adding a vinyl decal to the glass front of a shadow bow is just like decorating another smooth surface using transfer tape. It’s extra important to clean the surface before and after to keep the glass clear!
Q: What fake snow should I use in a shadow box?
A: There are several kinds of fake snow available, but I had the best results with the material linked above. It’s fluffy like real snow but easy to handle!
Q: What lights do you use in a shadow box?
A: The best light option depends on the project. I often use light strips around the edges, but I love fairy lights for this one so we can poke them through the starts! Remember, LED lights won’t heat up, so always use them when papercrafting!
Q: What fonts did you use?
A: Dandelion or a free alternative, Cathalia.
Q: What is an LED fairy light?
A: A string of fairy light LEDs is a thin, flexible wire with a battery pack at one end and several little lights along its length. I often cut a little notch in the back of the shadow box and adhere the battery pack there to make turning the lights on and off or replacing the batteries easy.
Q: How many layers are in a shadow box?
A: You can create the scene you want by using the amount of layers you need, just make sure they’ll fit in the frame including any adhesives.
Q: Can I make a shadow box with fake snow with a Cricut Joy?
A: The details in the shadow box are too delicate to scale down and cut with a Joy.
Q: How do you decorate a shadow box?
A: You can add vinyl details, 3D cardstock elements, anything you like, really!
Get my free SVG files to make a shadow bow with fake snow!
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I love seeing what you make with my designs and tips! Please share a photo of your shadow box in our Facebook group or tag me on social media with #jennifermaker.
Love,
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