Embark on a whimsical journey and create a winter wonderland in the palm of your hand. Snow globe tumblers, captivating miniature worlds filled with swirling glitter and dancing snowflakes, are surprisingly easy to make. Dive into the magic of crafting these enchanting creations, perfect for adding a touch of icy charm to your desk, home, or as thoughtful gifts for loved ones.
To begin your snow globe adventure, gather essential supplies: a clear glass tumbler, waterproof glue, glitter, miniature figurines or embellishments, and distilled water. Select a tumbler with a sturdy base and a wide enough opening to accommodate your desired figurines. Waterproof glue ensures a secure bond between the figurines and the tumbler’s surface, preventing them from floating or becoming dislodged. Opt for fine-grained, non-toxic glitter in colors that complement your chosen figurines and evoke the wintery essence you envision.
With the stage set, begin by carefully arranging the figurines or embellishments inside the tumbler. Use your imagination and create a captivating scene, whether it’s a cozy woodland setting, a bustling city street, or a serene underwater realm. Securely glue the figurines to the bottom of the tumbler, using a steady hand and allowing ample time for the glue to dry thoroughly. Once the figurines are firmly in place, prepare the snow globe solution by mixing equal parts distilled water and glycerin in a separate container. Glycerin adds viscosity, creating a slow-falling effect for the glitter, mimicking the gentle descent of snowflakes.
Prepare the Tumbler
To get started, you’ll need a clear glass tumbler or jar with a wide mouth. The size and shape of the tumbler will determine the size and shape of your snow globe.
Cleaning the Tumbler
Thoroughly clean the tumbler with soap and water to remove any dirt or residue. Be sure to rinse it well and dry it completely with a clean towel. Any remaining residue could interfere with the adhesion of the sealant and affect the overall seal of the snow globe.
Protecting the Surface
If you want to decorate the outside of the tumbler, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge or another clear sealant to the surface. This will help protect the decorations from water damage and keep them in place. Allow the sealant to dry completely before proceeding.
Choosing a Base
Select a flat, sturdy surface to serve as the base of your snow globe. It should be large enough to accommodate the tumbler and any decorations you plan to use.
| Base Material | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Natural, customizable, durable | Can warp or crack if exposed to moisture |
| Cork | Lightweight, waterproof, non-slip | May not be as aesthetically pleasing as other materials |
| Plastic | Affordable, waterproof, durable | May not be as visually appealing as natural materials |
Seal the Tumbler
To ensure the snow globe tumbler is watertight and long-lasting, it is crucial to seal it properly. Follow these steps for a secure seal:
Decorate the Exterior
The exterior of your snow globe tumbler is just as important as the interior, and there are many ways to decorate it to make it unique and personal. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Paint the Lid
The lid of your snow globe tumbler is a great place to add a pop of color or a special design. You can paint it with acrylic paint, spray paint, or even nail polish. If you’re not sure what to paint, try searching for free printable snow globe lid designs online.
Add Glitter or Sequins
Glitter and sequins are a fun and easy way to add some sparkle to your snow globe tumbler. You can sprinkle them on the lid, the base, or both. Just be sure to seal them in place with a clear coat of spray paint or sealant.
Use Stickers or Decals
Stickers and decals are another great way to decorate your snow globe tumbler. You can find stickers and decals with a variety of designs, including snowflakes, snowmen, and Christmas trees. Just be sure to choose stickers and decals that are waterproof so they won’t peel off.
Wrap the Base with Ribbon
Wrapping the base of your snow globe tumbler with ribbon is a simple way to add a touch of elegance. You can use any type of ribbon you like, but wide ribbon works best. Just be sure to secure the ribbon in place with a dab of hot glue.
Add Embellishments
Embellishments can add a bit of extra personality to your snow globe tumbler. You can add anything you like, such as beads, charms, or even small toys. Just be sure to attach them securely so they don’t fall off.
Here are some additional ideas for decorating the exterior of your snow globe tumbler:
Use a permanent marker to draw snowflakes or other designs on the glass.
Add a layer of faux snow to the base of the tumbler.
Fill the tumbler with colored water or glitter water.
Attach a small Christmas tree to the lid of the tumbler.
Add a battery-operated LED light to the inside of the tumbler.
How to Make a Snow Globe Tumbler
Snow globe tumblers are a fun and festive way to enjoy the winter season. They’re also a great way to add a touch of whimsy to your home décor. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your own snow globe tumbler:
- Gather your materials. You will need the following:
- A clear glass tumbler
- Distilled water
- Glitter (in the color of your choice)
- Glycerin (optional)
- A small figurine or other object to place inside the tumbler
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Clean the tumbler. Make sure the tumbler is clean and free of any dirt or debris.
- Fill the tumbler with distilled water. Fill the tumbler about 3/4 full with distilled water.
- Add the glitter. Add a generous amount of glitter to the water. You can use any color or combination of colors you like.
- Add the glycerin (optional). Glycerin will help to slow down the falling of the glitter, creating a more realistic snow globe effect. If desired, add a few drops of glycerin to the tumbler.
- Place the figurine inside the tumbler. Use hot glue to secure the figurine to the bottom of the tumbler.
- Seal the tumbler. Use hot glue to seal the lid onto the tumbler. Make sure the glue is applied around the entire edge of the lid.
- Allow the glue to dry completely. Allow the hot glue to dry completely before shaking the tumbler.
- Shake the tumbler and enjoy! Once the glue is dry, shake the tumbler to create a snow globe effect.
People Also Ask
What kind of glitter can I use?
You can use any type of glitter you like, but fine glitter will create a more realistic snow globe effect.
Can I use tap water instead of distilled water?
Yes, you can use tap water if you do not have distilled water on hand. However, distilled water will help to prevent the growth of algae in the tumbler.
How long will the snow globe tumbler last?
With proper care, your snow globe tumbler can last for many years. Be sure to store it in a cool, dry place when not in use.
