CRAFTer Dark – January: Mixed-Media Snowman

Milton Library hosts CRAFTer Dark, a monthly program geared toward adults. The goal is to provide programs that make art/crafts accessible to all skill levels in such a way that each participant produces a stunning piece, even with no prior experience.

January’s CRAFTer Dark project proved that creativity doesn’t always follow the calendar. Our mixed-media Snowman in the Wind program was originally scheduled for January, but inclement weather had other plans. With the library closed that evening, the program was postponed until the following week in February—and it was well worth the wait.

When adults finally gathered around the tables, the room quickly filled with happy chatter and creative energy. A few eager participants jumped right in before instructions were finished, setting the tone for an evening of enthusiasm and artistic independence. The project began with painting the canvas in blue acrylic. Once dry, white acrylic paint was dry-brushed diagonally across the surface to suggest snow blowing in the wind. To create the snowman, white paint was applied to two circles cut from bubble wrap and stamped onto the canvas at an angle, giving the impression that the snowman himself was being swept away by the gusts.

Details brought each snowman to life. Colored cardstock was cut and adhered for eyes, noses, and hats, with Sharpie markers used to add final touches. The snowman’s arms reached out dramatically toward his hat, which appeared to be blowing away in the storm. As always with CRAFTer Dark, some participants happily strayed from the instructions, adding their own creative twists and making each piece truly unique. The result was a collection of whimsical, windswept snowmen—and a reminder that a little unpredictability can make art even more fun. ❄️🎨