What is a snow globe?
A snow globe is a fascinating and popular decorative item that has been around for many years. It’s a small glass or plastic dome containing a miniature scene, figurine, or object encased in a liquid, usually water. When shaken, the liquid creates a swirling snow-like effect around the object inside, creating a magical and whimsical display.
The first snow globes were made by hand, using glassblowing techniques to create the globe and hand-painting the scene or object inside. Later, the technique evolved to include plastic globes, making the process more accessible and affordable. Today, snow globes are available in various designs, themes, and sizes, ranging from small keychain trinkets to large, elaborate collectible pieces. They are a popular item for collectors, tourists, and gift-giving and can be customized to reflect personal interests or special occasions.
How to make a snow globe?
Making a snow globe is a fun and creative activity for people of all ages. Snow globes are a popular decorative item that can add a touch of whimsy and magic to any room. The snow globe concept dates back to the 19th century and has since evolved to include various designs, themes, and materials. While you can purchase snow globes at many stores, making your snow globe allows you to customize the design and add a personal touch. Additionally, making a snow globe can be a great craft project for children or a relaxing activity for adults. With a little creativity and patience, you can create a beautiful and unique snow globe that you can enjoy for years. Following are steps to how to make a snow globe:
Materials used in snow globe
- A clear glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid
- Distilled water
- Liquid glycerin (available at most craft stores)
- Glitter or small plastic figurines
- Glue
- Paint or stickers (optional)
1) Choose your jar or container
Choose a clear glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. It can be a mason jar, baby food jar, or any other container you have on hand. Make sure that the lid fits tightly to prevent water from leaking out.
2) Choose your decorations
You can add any decorations you like to your snow globe. Choose items that are small enough to fit inside your jar. Glitter, small plastic figurines, and mini trees are popular choices.
3) Glue your decorations
Use glue to your decorations onto the inside of the lid. Allow the glue to dry completely. Ensure that everything is securely attached to the lid and that no loose pieces can come loose and float around the snow globe.
4) Add water and glycerin
Fill your jar with distilled water, leaving a small space at the top. Add a few drops of liquid glycerin to the water. The glycerin will help the glitter or decorations float in the water and settle more slowly.
5) Add glitter or decorations
Add glitter or small plastic figurines to the jar. You can add as much or as little glitter as you like. Try to add only a little, as it may make it difficult to see the decorations.
6) Seal the jar
Carefully screw the lid onto the jar, ensuring it is tight and secure. You can also add a layer of epoxy glue to the rim of the jar to create a stronger seal.
7) Shake and enjoy
Shake the snow globe to see the glitter or decorations float around. If you want to add more decorations, unscrew the lid and add them. You can also decorate the outside of the jar with paint or stickers to make it even more personalized.
Things to keep in mind while making a snow globe
Here are the key points to keep in mind when making a snow globe:
- Choose a jar with a tight-fitting lid to prevent leaks.
- Select objects that are the right size to fit inside the jar.
- Glue objects securely to the inside of the lid with a strong adhesive.
- Use distilled water to prevent clouding over time.
- Add the appropriate glycerin or clear glue to create the desired water thickness for the snowstorm effect.
FAQs:
How do you make a snow globe without glycerin?
If you cannot find glycerin in stores, don’t worry – you can still make a snow globe using clear glue instead. Choose a glass jar with a tight lid and glue small objects to the inside of the lid. Next, fill the jar with distilled water and clear glue, adding a pinch of glitter or small plastic figurines. Finally, secure the lid onto the jar and gently shake it to create a swirling snowstorm effect.
Can I use hand sanitizer to make a snow globe?
Adding hand sanitizer to the water in a homemade snow globe can help increase its viscosity or thickness. Hand sanitizer often contains glycerin, making the water thicker when combined with water in larger quantities. This increased thickness allows the glitter or small plastic figurines to stay suspended in the water for longer when the snow globe is shaken, creating a more effective snowstorm effect.
Conclusion:
Making a snow globe is an enjoyable and easy craft project at home. With just a few basic materials like a glass jar, distilled water, glitter or small plastic figurines, and glycerin or clear glue, you can create a beautiful and unique snow globe to enjoy year-round. Whether you choose to use glycerin or clear glue, the key is to get the right consistency for the water to allow the glitter or objects to remain suspended in the water for the desired amount of time. So, gather your materials and start making your DIY snow globe today!