Snow globes are so simple, but they manage to mesmerize young and old. When watching the glittery “snow” billow around in a scene you can hold in your hand, you can’t help but imagine being transported to a miniature winter wonderland.
Make magic on a global scale
If you’re looking for a delightful holiday craft — one that you will enjoy year after year — why not make your own custom snow globe?
Making a custom snow globe is a fun and easy craft project for one person or for a family alike. Plus, these DIY crafts make unforgettable gifts. Get the supply list and directions below!
Filling up the snow globe with water
As the focal point of your globe, choose a waterproof figurine of whatever you like most about this festive season — whether that’s a mini Santa Claus, snowman (as we used here), little penguin, Christmas tree, star or something else. (We recommend a resin, plastic, glass or ceramic ornamental figure. Don’t use metal or wood — metal can rust, and wood will break down over time. Some paints can also dissolve in water.)
Pouring in a little bit of glycerin
Glue the ornament of choice to the inside of your snow globe lid, then fill up the globe with water, a little glitter, glycerin, and a drop of dish soap to help the glitter float slowly.
Adding glitter “snow” to your holiday craft project
Supplies for a homemade snow globe
- Empty plastic DIY water globe/snow globe (found at craft stores)
- Distilled water
- Glycerin (also found at craft stores, usually in the baking/cake decorating aisle)
- A drop of dishwashing liquid (not dishwasher detergent)
- Glitter
- Water-resistant winter figurine of your choice
- Water-resistant craft glue (such as a RTV [room-temperature vulcanizing] silicone sealant)
Directions: How to make your own snow globe
- Glue your figurine to the inside of the snow globe lid.
- Fill the globe almost completely with the distilled water. (You can add more or less water, depending on the size of your figurine.)
- Pour 2 to 3 teaspoons of glycerin into the globe.
- Add a drop of dishwashing liquid.
- Add glitter (generally, more than you think you should) and stir.
- Once the glue has set and your figurine is solidly in place, screw the lid (and attached ornament) onto the globe. (Some people choose to add a little more water to the globe at this point, in order to minimize the size of the air bubble at the top.)
- Optional: Add two small drops of glue to the lid threads to help secure it, and to keep little hands from inadvertently unscrewing it.
- After the lid is sealed and the glue has set, turn your winter wonderland right-side up, shake it up, and enjoy the show!
Seal the lid on the globe
The finished snow globe makes a great DIY gift!
Super simple variation: Snow in a jar
For an easy and inexpensive version of this craft, instead make your snow globe out of a small glass jar — like one that’s used for baby food or capers.