A snow globe is a great gift, but what if you want something a little more personal? Whether you're looking for something to decorate your private room or want to make a special gift, a homemade snow globe can be a gift that's easy to make, memorable, and inexpensive. And it's possible that you already have all the ingredients you need at home!
Step
Part 1 of 2: Designing a Snow Globe
Step 1. Choose a theme
If you want the snow globe to be related to Christmas, you can choose a snowman or a pine tree. As for birthdays, try small toys. For a more personal globe, try thick laminated photos glued to a prop or other base.
- Make sure the statue is waterproof and fits in the lid of the jar and fits inside the jar. Make sure there is a flat surface to glue it on.
- Ceramic or plastic are good choices. If you're not sure, place the miniature statue in a bowl of water for a few hours and see what happens.
- You can also make your own clay sculptures. It must be easy to find the material in a craft store with a variety of color choices.
Step 2. Find a good jar
Any size, from baby food jars to spaghetti sauce to large mason jars. Make sure the jars are not cracked and can be tightly closed.
- Check the seal on the cap first. Fill it with water, seal it tightly and turn it over - no leaks.
- Wash the jars with hot water and soap, remove any remaining labels or glue, and make sure the jars are completely dry before moving on to the next process.
- You'll also need a place to put these crafts to dry overnight without being disturbed.
- Once the figurines and jars are ready, try placing them in different positions to see which one works best and which side to glue.
Step 3. Gather equipment
Most craft stores or markets will stock supplies you don't already have at home. In addition to the jars and figurines, you will also need:
- Waterproof or epoxy craft glue
- Glitter or artificial snow
- Bottled water that tends not to be cloudy
- Glycerol or baby oil (optional, but can thicken the water and make the "snow" fall more slowly)
Part 2 of 2: Arranging the Parts of the Snow Globe
Step 1. Place the statue
Open the lid of the jar and consider a place to put the statue. Place them in different positions and try turning the jar over. After finding the right position, apply an adhesive seal to the bottom of the statue. After that, press the statue into the lid of the jar and hold it for 2-3 seconds, depending on the size.
Step 2. Let it dry
It should take about 24 hours, but check the glue package to see how long it will take to dry. Find a distraction-free place to put it. Make sure the statue on the lid is firmly attached before you move on to the next step.
Step 3. Fill the jar with water
Bottled water is an ideal choice and will be clearer. Leave a little room above the water for the glycerol, glitter, and sculpture.
Step 4. Add glycerol
Use a few drops to about a teaspoon of glycerol, depending on the size of the jar. Glycerol is optional, but will make the glitter or snow fall more slowly. Baby oil will also produce the same effect.
Step 5. Pour in the glitter
Use plastic glitter and sprinkle 1-2 scoops into the water. For larger jars, add more, but don't overdo it as the snow globe will look cloudy. Take a long-handled spoon to stir everything until well combined.
Step 6. Seal the lid of the jar
With the jar facing up, put the lid on and seal it. If it's too much, the water will spill a little, but that's okay. Turn it over carefully and check for leaks. Also check to see if there is any space left in the jar, then turn it over again. Add water if it's still not enough.
Let it sit for a few days to make sure there are no slow-flowing leaks or other problems. Once you're sure everything's secure, permanently glue the jar lids with epoxy or hot glue
Step 7. Shake the snow globe
Gently shake the snow globe and enjoy this beautiful craft! Display it on a window sill, bookshelf, or anywhere else to showcase your work.
Tips
- Use bottled water for best results.
- Don't add too much glitter or else the statue won't be visible.
- Clean all the sticker marks on the jar until the glass is completely clear.
- Try adding a little glycerol / baby oil. Too many additions can cause future damage.
