As part of last week’s holiday tablescape hop, I shared a peek of the Christmas cocktail ornament balls that accompanied the Twas the Night Before Christmas Eve Table.
Today, I’ll show you two fast and easy methods to make your own festive drink ware for holiday merry making.
One is really just a shopping list. Minor crafting and assembly is all the other approach takes. Both are easy peasy, inexpensive to make, and require little time and effort.
I promise they’ll be a big hit with family and friends during the holiday season. Last year, my adult sons were so impressed with the Christmas cocktail ornament balls, they snapped pictures to text to their friends.
But you can use them for kids of all ages, even serving non-alcoholic beverages if you’d like. Perhaps a cranberry sparkler for the children, and something with a bit more punch for the grownups?
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Not Just for Hanging on the Tree
Inspiration for the cocktail ornament balls came from something I saw on Pinterest. The photo led to an online article on holiday drinks. One festive beverage was served in what looked like glass ornament balls.
For last year’s version, the plastic ornament balls were supported cradled in stemware.
Because my sons liked the Christmas cocktail ornament balls so much, I made them each a set of eight for holiday entertaining this season. However, I altered the original design so that so they could stand upright on their own.
Materials
For either DIY approach, you’ll need large, plastic ornament balls and candy cane striped straws. Method 2 also requires shower curtain hooks, a glue gun and glue sticks. You can also enhance smooth balls with names of guests or holiday labels using a Sharpie or glass paint pen.
Last year, I used plastic ornament balls from Michaels that come in packages of four. Some were smooth and others were faceted. They’re easy to find and are typically 50% off, or about $1.25 each. When they were such a big hit Christmas Eve, I bought four more packages and put them aside for the boys’ gift this year. During the post holiday clearance, they were 75% plus off.
Dollar Tree also sells the smooth ornament balls individually for $1 each. And, they may be a little larger in size than Michaels.
Method 1: Using Glass Stemware as a Base
This is the original method used, and by far the quickest to assemble. The Christmas cocktail ornament balls were made to accompany a Twas the Night Before Christmas Table.
First, remove the silver metal cap. Hubby went to the trouble of removing the pronged hanger insert. Then, he punched a hole in the middle, big enough for a straw to fit through.
Although the silver cap enhances the Christmas cocktail ornament balls, I recommend simply discarding them. Save yourself the time and effort. Plus, you run the risk of cutting yourself. Worse; a small shred of the metal might end up inside the drink glass.
Next, wash each ornament ball inside and out. You could dry off the outside with a towel and use immediately. But, I recommend setting the drink ware upside down to drain, and let the ball dry out overnight.
Meanwhile, prep your favorite cocktail ahead of time and refrigerate overnight to chill. Hubby added crushed ice to our Christmas cocktail ornament balls, but that’s not necessary and takes more time.
At serving time, add any alcohol, and carefully pour into each Christmas cocktail ornament ball. Depending on the drink, adding cranberries and/or pomegranate seeds make for a festive garnish.
Set the ball in a wide cup to cradle the drink; like a champagne, martini or margarita glass. Insert a festively decorated straw, and serve immediately from a tray or bar. Ho, ho, ho!
Method 2: Add a Ring Base
Since both my adult sons live in Manhattan and Philadelphia condos, they don’t have a lot of storage space for glass stemware. And, they usually entertain groups of around eight friends or more at a time.
So, I needed to make the Christmas cocktail ornament balls to sit upright on a flat surface, without the need of a stemware cradle.
The quick and easy solution, is to simply hot glue a plastic curtain ring onto the bottom of each ball. Packages of 12 are just a buck at Dollar Tree.
Begin as before; removing the caps, washing and drying out the ornament balls overnight.
Now you’re ready to add the base rings so the drink ware sits upright.
Generously apply glue around one side of a ring at a time. Next, firmly push into place on the bottom end of the ornament ball. Hold in place until the glue sets up.
For added interest, you can also make the Christmas cocktail ornament balls sit slightly off center.
To insure the ring would hold in place — didn’t want the cocktail balls rolling and spilling — I then added a heavy dose of glue. Apply it in the space between the curved edge of the ball and the inside edge of the ring. And, one more time all around the outside edge for good measure.
Afterwards, set them bottom side up in a glass for the glue to dry overnight.
I bought both clear and white rings to try. But, if I ever make the Christmas cocktail ornament balls again, I’ll only use white curtain rings. The white hides the glue better and looks more “clean.”
And, it’s easier to see where to set the Christmas cocktail ornament balls safely on a flat surface — so they don’t roll and spill.
Who’s is Who?
To differentiate who’s drink is who’s, I added a festive “label” onto one side of each smooth-sided plastic ball.
It’s a little hard to see, but I used the words; Jingle, Holly, Frosty, Santa, Elf, etc. Nothing too long like, Let It Snow. Guest first names work too. A white Sharpie probably would show up better. Or, you could get really artsy and use multiple color pens and create more decorative details.
I try to make a new holiday cocktail for Christmas Eve each year. Do you have a favorite or go-to?
Something to Share
I confess that I’m not looking forward to Christmas this year, and feel far from making merry myself. I am struggling to go through the motions of decorating, shopping, wrapping, baking, etc. You see, on Monday evening, I had to let go of my Sweet Scottie Dog.
Fibber was his regular self, full of vim and vigor before going to the groomer. Later, she called to tell me he was ready to pick up. Halfway there, the groomer called again and asked where I was — which I thought was very odd.
That’s when my heart sank. Fibber was on the grooming table, giving her kisses. All of a sudden he seemed to be suffering a seizure. She immediately scooped him up and took him to the vet next door.
When I arrived, Fibber was conscious, but laying in a twisted, contorted position —struggling to straighten himself and stand up. His head and eyes were looking to the right. The vet was very concerned that he wasn’t coming out of the seizure and was vomiting.
They wrapped him in a blanket and helped me put him in the car. Dear hubby met me along the way, so he could take over the 45-minute drive to the specialty, emergency veterinary center. Meanwhile, I held Fibber in the backseat stroking him, talking, singing, and keeping his mouth clear of vomit. It was horrible.
They were waiting for us. It’s the same center where Fibber had his surgery to remove his gallbladder last winter. The tech who cared for him in her home when we were in Peru, took him into her arms. Half an hour, later the ER doctor called us back.
She explained that Fibber had some type of neurological event; perhaps a stroke. He was struggling mightily. Although he could survive, he’d have a poor quality of life. My husband and I were sobbing and holding each other.
You know what I had to do. I think everyone was surprised I didn’t want to wait overnight and perform an MRI in the morning. But, that would be pointless and prolong Fibber’s suffering.
First, I wanted to hold and talk to him. He calmed considerably when they laid him in our arms. By some miracle, he was able to turn his head, center his eyes and look at me. It meant the world, and it’s how I am trying to remember him.
After some private time, we let him go while cradling him. It was peaceful. Afterwards, I couldn’t stop crying and felt short of breath. In the course of three short hours, I went from having my adorable, feisty, loving companion and buddy, to holding him lifeless.
Back at home, it’s like all the air has left our house.
Scottie Season
Christmas is mad for plaid, Scottie season. I have images and silhouettes of Scotties everywhere — in holiday decorations (both a small tree and wreath), ornaments, holiday cards, wrapping paper and tags, cutout cookies, figures, throws, and even my jammies, slippers, clothing and jewelry.
Fibber’s mitten stocking was hanging by the fireplace, waiting for the gifts Santa already bought. We’ll be donating toys, bedding and food to a local shelter.
My family and friends have been incredibly supportive. It’s been a tough year with my dad passing in May. Since then, both my sisters and my mom also lost their dearly loved dogs.
Forgive me for oversharing. And, please pardon if I step back from blogging a bit, skipping the holiday posts I had originally planned. I was fortunate this post was mostly already crafted. I’ve also scaled way back on my holiday decorating and baking. The Christmas cards may not go out in time. Going to focus on counting my blessings, and spending time with family and friends.
If we don’t get a chance to talk before the holiday, I do wish you all a blessed Christmas. And if you have a fuzzy friend or two, be sure to give them a hug for me.
Update: Merry Christmas 2020
Three day old brindle Scottie puppy, courtesy of breeder Jacqueline Wise.
In the midst of this terrible year, Santa Paws arrived early! After eight months of searching for a Scottie puppy a litter was born on the anniversary of Fibber’s passing! How about that for timing? And, he opened his eyes on Christmas! Next year, I’ll bring out my Scottie Dog Christmas Ornament Tree again.
My new brindle boy will come home in February so I am Preparing for a Puppy.
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I regularly participate in: Metamorphous Monday, Turn About Tuesday, Centerpiece Wednesday, Whimsical Home Projects, In Link Party, Share Your Style, Tablescape Thursday, Thursday Favorite Things, Crafty Creators, Fabulous Friday, Saturday Sparks, Happiness is Homemade, and Love Your Creativity.
Thank you for this fantastic drink cup idea! Warmest hugs to you and your family, the pain of your loss isn’t easy. Take your time to heal and bask in memories.
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your dog! I have my little cavalier king Charles spaniel next to me, and I will give her a big hug from you. She is 13 and she is such a comfort to my husband and my self.
My neighbor has the same breed — such a beautiful and sweet dog. I’ve just returned from a 2 1/2 hour historical, holiday home tour in the rain and cold. Since I can’t snuggle up with Fibber, I did the next best thing — curled up on the couch in one of my Scottie and plaid throws. Fibber loved his blankies (and mine too).
Appreciate it Rhonda. Makes me happy to think others may make merry this holiday by using the cocktail ornament balls for their festive celebrations.
Debbee, your blog is my favorite. I am so excited about the ornament glasses and so saddened by Fibber’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and I hope you are back to posting soon.
Aww Jane, how sweet of you — few people take the time to comment, so it’s very nice to hear. My friends dragged me out on a holiday home tour in a historical section of the city this morning. I really enjoyed it, and was a great distraction. Of course, I wore my plaid skirt and scarf, with a Scottie pin close to my heart.
It is so hard to try to be happy and jolly at Christmas when you have suffered so much loss through the year. I can totally relate. Enjoy what you can.
So true Bobbie. Taking it one day at a time. Remembering the saying, “this too will pass.” And, I do so want to make a merry, happy holiday for my sons when they come home next weekend. After all, they miss their grandfather and Fibber too.
Thanks for sharing the story about Fibber. Miss Ginny and Miss Kenzie send Scottie hugs to you and your husband. Our first Scottie, Turnberry, went in a similar manner with no warning. It truly takes the wind out of your sails, for sure. But Ginny and Kenzie came to us through the Tennessee Scottish Terrier Rescue. When you feel it is time, consider adopting a rescue. It has been the best decision we have ever made! We love our Scotties.
Hi Kay, thanks for all the Scottie love and support. As I recall, it was a pix of Fibber on Instagram that led you to my blog? In hindsight, I wish now we had gotten another Scottie this past summer. But, my dad’s passing was still very raw, and I wanted to concentrate on caring for Fibber post his surgery. I can’t imagine having a dog that wasn’t a Scottie. And yet, feel none could possibly compare to Fibber’s amazing personality and the connection we had. Hopefully as time passes I’ll be ready. And, I think a Scottie rescue would be the way to go.
Debbee, It took us a long time before we could even consider getting another dog. We didn’t want to “replace” Turnberry but just couldn’t think of not having a Scottie in our home. Yes, I was drawn to your blog because of your mentioning you owned a Scottie. We got Miss Kenzie in August because Miss Ginny is getting older and didn’t want to be without our Scottie love down the road. Kenzie came from a puppy mill is a real challenge but she is coming along with Ginny’s guidance. This is such a fun breed! Hugs and more Arooo’s!
Thank you Kay. Merry Christmas.
Deb, so sorry to hear of Fibber’s passing. It is truly losing a family member. Dogs are the only critters who love us unconditionally. I hope your Scotty themed decor will bring smiles of good memories in time. The Christmas after we lost Lady, our black Lab mix rescue, I put an open box of chocolates on the coffee table. My son, Patrick, looked at me and said, “That’s just not right.” We could NEVER have done that before. When we first got her, she went under the Christmas tree and scarfed up Aunt Millie’s 14 oz bag of Hershey Kisses, foil and all. Then proceeded to christen my BRAND NEW wall-to-wall carpet the next day. She used to sleep with my daughter, fleas and all! I am now a cat person as we can go off and leave cats to their own devices! But they are not the same!
Thanks for your sympathies and understanding Kathy. One of the hardest parts is me constantly catching myself from thinking it’s time to feed Fibber, or him not being at the top of the stairs when I come in, or looking to make sure he’s not underfoot, etc. Just a few minutes ago, I dropped food on the floor and caught myself automatically saying, “Leave it Fibber!” I had a big ‘ol Maine Coon Cat when my hubby and I got married, who lived till age 16. My sons adored Bandit. Much as I loved the cat, it’s nothing like the relationship I had with my buddy Fibber.
Debbee, I always read to the end. So sorry about Fibber. Made me cry. Christmas is also about missing loved ones no longer with us.
Dear Myrna, I’m sorry it upset you so much. You are very kind-hearted. Hugs.
I came to comment on how clever your creation was, but after reading about your loss, I’m heartbroken for you. Prayers to you and your family. Thank you for sharing, I hope you find peace this holiday season.
Pamela, thank you for your kind words and comforting sentiments. It’s very much appreciated.
First of all I am so sorry, it is so very hard. We lost our Meeko five years ago just before Halloween. We now have a daring little Lou to keep us entertained.
On the shower rings that is brilliant, I made the cocktail ball glasses but I used small stones on the bottom. Love your concept
Thank you for understanding Linda. Do think it’s going to be sometime before I could bring home another Scottie. Don’t want it to feel like I’d be replacing my unreplaceable boy.
As far as the drinkware is concerned, I think the lightbulb went off when I was in Dollar Tree for something else and saw those shower rings? But, it’s also possible I saw it on Pinterest somewhere too. Many of my project ideas were inspired by pins.
Forgive you for oversharing???? Honey, you are going through an absolutely horrific grief–you never have to apologize for that. I know your heart is breaking, but I am glad sweet Fibber is running around healthy in Heaven, where you will one day get to be with him again. During this intermission, hold tight to all the beautiful memories of the joy he brought to your lives. The cocktail ornaments are fabulous–I love this idea!
Oh Bobbi dear, thank you for the comforting and sweet support. Means a lot. I am fortunate to have many, many happy memories. He brought so much fun and laughter to our lives. Can’t believe how empty the house feels without the little guy who only stood on 4 inch legs. Feels more like the house is missing an elephant-sized personality.
If you make the holiday drinkware, raise a glass for me! Merry Christmas.
I will raise a glass for you, sweetie.
Dear Debbee, Don’t feel that you may have overstepped. Being sad is a part of life and some Christmases are not as happy as others. Many years ago after I had to let my Irish Setter go I would “see” her laying on the rug which had an area of earth tones that matched her coat. Now I can just smile when I hang the framed ornament picture of her on the tree. Merry Christmas and a happier New Year.
Thank you for your kindness and understanding Iris. I have lots of Scottie ornaments, but none with a pix of my fiesty, but sweet Fibber. I also realize I don’t have a framed pix of him either. Gonna fix that ASAP. I guess up until now, his personality and presence filled our home, and it didn’t occur to me. Also getting one for each of my sons. You’re also right about not all Christmas’ being Hallmark holidays. My grandfather was buried on Xmas Eve, when I was in college here in Pittsburgh. We had to drive across the state, late in the day, to Philly where we lived then. I’m sorta of glad it’ll be just the four of us this year. Although my husband and boys are grieving too, I won’t have to put on a “show” and entertain anyone. Wishing you all the best.
Deb,
May the upcoming days bring you peace and comfort as your daydreams remind you of Fibber. We love our fur babies, it’s a terrible loss, I know myself.
Thank you Becky. I’m sorry for your loss too.
These little cocktails in ornaments are so cute! How fun these will be for holiday parties! I hope you can find a little joy in the holiday even without your dear Fibber. Merry Christmas Debbee!
I’m especially excited that both my sons used the drinkware for entertaining their friends this year. Both boys got home late yesterday and having them here helps motivate me to make merry. We have a bunch of activities planned for the week ahead, and that will be a great distraction. Wish I could sleep better though Chloe. I lay there in the middle of the night, or early morning, and Fibber’s last three hours go over and over in my head. Before we picked up his ashes a few days ago, we stopped at Animal Friends — a no-kill shelter. We donated Fibber’s bedding, lots of toys, food and even meds. We also took a tour and signed up for volunteer orientation in early January. I want to be around dogs, but can’t imagine having another Scottie for quite awhile. Fibber was exceptional. Merry Christmas to you too Chloe, I know it’s been a challenging year. Here’s to a better 2020!
I am so sorry to hear you had to say goodbye to Fibber. Wishing you peace and healing.
Diane, I really appreciate you taking the time to offer comfort and support during the holiday.
I definitely read to the end. The loss of a beloved pet is something we all can relate to, and I share your sadness. Three years ago my dear Potter-a huge orange Main Coon of almost 20 years-suddenly developed severe health issues the day before I was scheduled for a surgical brain procedure. I couldn’t change that, but I hastened my time in recovery overnight: urinate, eat, and walk the circuit of the neuro floor. I walked drunk, but I got out of there, which is what counts. The next morning, my husband and I drove directly to the vet so we could say our good-byes.
You’ll never forget Fibber, but in good time you’ll feel like opening your heart to another pet. God bless.
Carol, how nice to hear from you. Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences and words of comfort. So sorry for your traumatic loss while you were ill yourself! I too had a Maine Coon cat. Bandit was a classic tabby who lived to be 18. One day, he curled up and never woke up. We think his heart just gave out. As big as he was (about 30 pounds), I have a bigger than life statue of him in my garden over his ashes. People use to do a double-take when they saw gorgeous Bandit, thinking he was a lynx. My boys still remember him fondly.
so sorry for the loss of your beloved pet. We have loss several pets over the years too. Glad you are focusing on your blessings. Try to be glad for the times you had.
Thanks so much for your kind words Marie. It’s actually a year today I lost my Scottie boy. A breeder is expecting a litter in the next week, so I’m hopeful there will be a Scottie puppy in our home early in 2021.
So sorry for your loss, Debbee. We lost our sweet Westie exactly the same way. Sending hugs from Canada! xo Your Christmas cocktail ornament glasses are AWESOME! They are just what we need to add some Christmas cheer because we are in lockdown until January 5th – no visitors allowed over the holidays.
You had a Westie Marie? We do share a lot in common; including loving little Scottish Highlanders. I’ve really missed Fibber MacGee, especially during the isolation associated with the pandemic. But, guess what! On the anniversary of his passing, Santa Scottie delivered a litter of puppies in Ohio! So, in February, we’ll be bringing home a Scottie puppy. Something to look forward to! Do indulge in a holiday cocktail for some cheer. I’m sorry you won’t have any visitors, and wish you the very best.
Yes, we were blessed to have our Shanleigh for 15 years. She was our firstborn. LOL So excited for you to get another sweet Scottie! And kudos to you for having the energy to train another (prone to be stubborn) highland terrier. LOL We are putting together a porch drop off Christmas feast for each of our children’s homes where we can enjoy together on a zoom call. I think I’m going to add some cute ornament glasses to the boxes, thanks to you! xo
Well Marie, I have pent up energy for a puppy after all these months couch bound since surgery on my foot. I never found Fibber stubborn, but he was persistent and a stickler for the rules. If playtime with hubby was after dinner dishes were done, he’d wait patently (although with a Scottie stink eye stare). But, you sure as heck better play then lol! I think he was such a good boy — and we were so bonded — partly because of all the training. That’s a big reason I want a puppy.
Glad you live at least near your children, so you can do the porch drop off. And, I’m delighted to think they may include the ornament balls. Share pix on your blog if you do!
I’m so sorry about Fibber’s passing Debbee. I can’t imagine how hard that day was for you. When my sweet dogs have passed, it was because of old age and was expected. If I’m reading this correctly though, you are finally going to get your puppy. I too will be getting a new puppy, Ollie on Christmas Eve. My Jax has missed having a playmate since our yellow lab passed away a couple of years ago. We’ll have to compare puppy notes! Hugs my friend.
Ahh, thanks so much Kim for your kind and thoughtful words. It was really a sucker punch losing Fibber at Christmastime. And, I sure missed a fur baby during this long, isolating year. Missed snuggles, play, walks and all his funny idiosyncrasies. Yes, I did just update the post after the Scottie stork arrived in Ohio with my new puppy! Even as they age, it still must have been hard to lose your dogs. So wonderful to hear you too will be getting a new puppy — for Christmas too! I’ll look forward to seeing pictures and updates. Have a most merry season.
Debbee, I’m so glad you have a new sweet doggie for this holiday season! Thank you for sharing at the Friday with Friends link party Happy Thanksgiving!
Me too! I can’t wait to bring out all my Scottie sweaters, tops, socks and jewelry to wear this season. Not to mention my small Christmas tree full of Scottie decorations. Just have to remember it’ll be Whiskey’s first Christmas too, and watch how he behaves with the live tree in the family room.
Debbee, Oh I love these. So adorable. You never cease to amaze. Congratulations, you are being featured on Thursday Favorite Things. Hugs, Bev
Very generous of you Bev — appreciate your kind remarks and the feature. Can’t wait to make merry!
This is so creative and clever, Debbee. I love this idea so much. I’ve featured this post at the TFT party. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much Pam — I’m delighted you like them, and appreciate the lovely compliment of being featured!
Debbee, somehow I missed this post. These cocktail balls are adorable and so creative. I am happy to feature them at Love Your Creativity,
Really appreciate the feature Linda! They are super easy to put together and put every one in a make merry mood.
Love these! I’m featuring them on today’s Crafty Creators. I’ll be trying a version of these for my kiddos for our family movie night that I do for several holidays out of the year. I go all out with themed food, drinks, snacks, decor, & games as well as making printables for all of my readers to use at their ow Christmas family movie night or party. I’ll be sure to give you credit for the wonderful idea! Happy Thanksgiving!!
Thanks so much Niki! I’m delighted you’ll be making them for your family this year. But, while you’re at Dollar Tree, you might find premade ornament ball drink glasses. I discovered them on a trip there several weeks ago. Since I tossed the ones I made after using them, I decided to pick up a dozen for this season.