How to make a snow globe
Create your own magical Christmas snow globe as a fun family activity – this easy version uses an old jam jar and festive glitter as the ‘snow’.
Christmas is the perfect time for homemade crafts, whether you need to keep the kids occupied or are looking for an evening project to help you get into the festive spirit. This cute snow globe certainly ticks all the boxes – you can customise the scene with old Christmas tree decorations, small toys or any waterproof figurines you can find.
We used glycerine and water to make the glittery ‘snow’ fall slowly, but you can also use baby oil for a similar effect. When you’re done, display your wonderful wintery keepsake on the mantlepiece with pride!
Makes 1 snowglobe
Prep 30 mins plus drying time
You will need
Clean jam jar
Waterproof figurine of your choice (plastic and resin are good options)
White air-drying modelling clay
Strong clear glue
2-3 tsp glycerine
½-1 tsp biodegradable glitter
Ribbon (optional)
Method
1. Before you start, check that your chosen figurine fits inside the jar and that the jar has a good seal (see tip below).
2. Mould the air-drying clay to a circular puck shape just slightly smaller than the jar opening. Check that the jar will fit snugly around the shape. Follow the pack instructions to allow the shaped clay to dry – usually it takes 24 hrs to dry naturally, or place on parchment paper and bake in the oven on the lowest possible heat for 2-3 hrs.
3. When the clay is dry and cool, use strong glue to attach your figurine onto the puck shape. Glue your puck shape into the centre of your jar lid. Allow to dry.
4. To make the snowglobe, place 2-3 tsp of glycerine into the jar and slowly top up with water, leaving a small gap at the top. Add ½-1 tsp biodegradable glitter and mix.
5. Line the rim of the jar with a small amount of strong clear glue. Turn the lid upside-down, then gently place your figurine into the water and screw on the lid. Allow the glue to dry, then turn your jar over to test for leaks.
6. To finish, tie a ribbon around the base of your snowglobe and glue in place.
Top tips for making a snowglobe
• For best results, choose a jar with a rubber seal on the inside (such as one used for jam making) as this is most likely to be watertight. You can use any household jar, but you may wish to check for leaks before you start.
• Normal tap water is fine to use, but if you have particularly cloudy water you may wish to use filtered or store-bought water for the clearest effect.
• You’ll find glycerine in the baking aisle of larger supermarkets and craft shops, or you can buy it online. As an alternative, you can fill your snowglobe with baby oil instead and it will have the same effect.
Discover more Christmas kids’ activities:
How to make fake snow
How to make hot chocolate cones
Salt dough Christmas decorations
How to make potato stamps
How to make a bath bomb
Indoor activities for kids
Comments, questions and tips
