How to Make Sugar Skull Jewelry
Celebration of the Mexican holiday of Dia de los Muertos through the making of sugar skulls is a tradition stretching back to the 17th century. Skulls made of sugar and fancifully decorated represent friends and family who have passed on. Celebrators place the sugar skulls on "ofrendas," or offerings, or make various crafts using the skulls, such as decorations or jewelry. Making sugar skull jewelry can prove a fun and creative way to celebrate Dia de los Muertos for adults and children.
First: Making the skulls with sugar
Traditional skulls made from sugar do not dry correctly on a rainy or very humid day, so check the weather before making sugar skulls. Mix one teaspoon of meringue powder and one teaspoon of water for every cup of sugar, depending on how many sugar skulls you plan to make. The mixture should clump when squeezed when thoroughly combined. Press the sugar mix into skull molds, which you can find in small, medium and large sizes, and allow to dry overnight, or for at least 12-14 hours. When dry, scoop the skulls from the molds and decorate with various colors of Royal Icing. Use the icing to glue on other decorations, such as beads, feathers or colored foils. Allow the skulls to dry again overnight or until completely set and hard.
Second: Using other materials
You do not have to use sugar to make skull jewelry for Dia de los Muertos. You can use any malleable material, such as clay, wax or even candy or chocolate. Proceed in the same fashion, pressing the material into the mold, allowing to dry and then decorating the skulls.
Third: Making jewelry
String together smaller skulls by carefully piercing the skulls with a fine needle or pin and joining them with string, yarn or wire to make colorful and festive necklaces or bracelets. Glue larger sugar skulls to a ribbon to create larger jewelry or other accessories, such as belts or hair ribbons. Most importantly, get creative and have fun!