A visual guide for building the perfect snowman

When someone asks, or sings, "Do you want to build a snowman?" the answer should always be yes.

Building a snowman after fresh powder falls is a timeless winter activity – no matter your age.

A massive winter storm hit parts of central and eastern United States last week, bringing heavy snow and strong winds.

Although winter storms may complicate travel, families stuck at home can make the most of their weekend with the help of heavy snow and a few accessories.

Paste BN visual journalists walk you through how to build the perfect snowman.

Step 1: Find a flat spot and moist, sturdy snow

Find a flat and shady spot to build your snowman. Avoid direct sunlight if you can to avoid melting. The type of snow you use to build your snowman will make a difference: If the snow is easily packable, it will have a better chance of staying together longer. If your snow is too fluffy or powdery, it probably will fall apart.

You can test the sturdiness of your snow by scooping a pile of snow in your hands and pressing it together to see if it can form into a ball.

Step 2: Roll the bottom section of your snowman.

It's time to build the base of your snowman!

Pack together a snowball with your hands. Then roll it on the ground to gather more snow and increase the size of the base.

Step 3: Build the middle section of your snowman

Repeat Step 2 by scooping snow and packing it into a small snowball. Add more snow by rolling the ball on the ground. Make sure the middle section is smaller than the base snowball.

Step 4: Build your snowman's head

It's time to finish your snowman by building its head. Repeat Step 1 by packing together a third and final ball of snow. Roll it on the ground to add snow and give it width. The head will be the smallest of the three snowballs.

When you're finished packing the snowball, place it carefully at the top of the sculpture.

Step 5: Accessorize your snowman

Gather supplies to create a nose, eyes, mouth, arms and any other accessories for your snowman.

The traditional snowman has a carrot for a nose, button eyes, sticks for arms and pebbles for a mouth. Snowmen are often seen with a top hat, scarf and pipe.