At a lively party where Chardonnay is the drink of the night, lipstick on the rim of a wineglass isn't the best way to distinguish that it belongs to you. Hence, the latest trend in cocktail party decor: wineglass charms.
It's an ingenious idea -- the dangling charms look fabulous and dressy around the necks of glassware, and provide a great way to match drink to drinker. The variations are endless. In department stores these are sold in sets of four or six and are of a sleek wire design, with one dainty trinket. However, you can create your own distinctive designs. Let your imagination flow and dress your glasses to fit your style. I threaded glass seed beads onto the wire and rummaged through my jewelry chest to find interesting items to dangle. Carry the theme even further by making an extra set as napkin rings. Memory wire, pliers and beads are all you need to add a signature touch to your next soiree. Supplies can be found at craft or sewing stores.

SUPPLIES:
* 1 package of bracelet memory wire
* Needle-nose pliers
* Assorted beads
* Charms
* Jump rings
DIRECTIONS: Cut the wire into pieces measuring 6 to 8 inches each, depending on size of the glass the bracelets are for. Take the first piece and use the needle-nose pliers to bend a hook, which will act as the latch. String the beads onto the wire, leaving 1/2-inch of the wire at the end. Again, use the needle-nose pliers to create a loop for the latch to fit through. You may have to twist the loop down so the ends will connect easily. Bend the beaded ring you just made so that it is a perfect circle shape. Attach the charm to the jump ring and attach the jump ring to the beaded ring. Attach to the necks of wineglasses or rolled fabric napkins.
VARIATIONS: Use to decorate the necks of fancy glass bottles or coffee-mug handles as well.

* For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: home decor, inside