Make a snow globe
Learn how to make a snow globe
This is a fun, cheap craft activity that all children can enjoy. We'll show you how to make a snow globe with children using an empty jam jar, biodegradable glitter and a few other items from around the home or classroom.
Activity introduction
Children will love creating their own unique, snow-filled world with this free homemade DIY Christmas snow globe activity.
Our step-by-step guide is simple to follow and loads of fun, making it a great STEM project for children. Learning how to make a homemade snow globe is an enjoyable hands-on activity promoting creativity and stimulating imagination. It can be used as a fun craft project for the home or as a main lesson activity in school for the festive season. As well as teaching design creativity, there are potential curriculum links with the Art department and STEAM-based activities.
You only need an empty jam jar (or mason jar), biodegradable glitter, glycerine (or syrup) and odd items from around the home. Plus, the final homemade snow globes make for a great Christmas gifts or decorations!
The beauty of a DIY snow globe is that kids can get creative with the objects they choose. It could be small toys, figurines, or even natural elements like small pinecones or rocks. Encourage your learners to select items that spark their imagination and reflect their own personal interests.
Supplies you will need
- Clean jam jar or mason jar (no labels) with a tightly fitting lid
- Biodegradable glitter
- Christmas decoration or festive ornament – make sure it’s waterproof and small enough to fit in the jar
- Water
- Glue gun and glue stick (or waterproof glue – a tube of clear, silicone sealant will do)
- Glycerine (No glycerine? That’s fine! Just use light corn syrup)
Step by step guide on how to make your snow globe
Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make your own handmade snow globe
- Step 1 - Glue the bottom of your decoration or ornament to the inside of the jam jar lid.
- Step 2 - Add water. Don’t fill the jar right to the top because you’ll need room for the ornament/decoration that you’ve just stuck to the lid! Next, add a small amount of glycerine (or corn syrup). Then add some sparkle with glitter but be careful not to add too much, otherwise it will all clump together.
- Step 3 - Add glue around the rim of the jam jar and attach the lid. Leave this for five minutes for the glue to dry. After that, test to make sure that the lid is securely fitted and watertight. Turn the jar upside down in a bowl or sink to check for any leaks!
- Step 4 - Shake your new snow globe! Enjoy the full snowstorm effect and share with your friends and family.
Download our free activity sheet below for more detailed instructions, teacher’s notes and optional extension work.
The engineering context
Building a snow globe is a hands-on learning experience that combines art and science. It’s not only a fun winter craft activity for children, but it can also help to develop their STEM skills. While making a snow globe, children will develop their practical skills and learn about science and engineering concepts such as viscosity.
Suggested outcomes
This STEM craft activity will teach creativity and problem-solving skills. Children can experiment with different arrangements of objects, types of jar, and glitter distribution to create their desired scene. This process encourages them to think critically, make aesthetic choices, and find solutions if things don’t go as planned. It’s also an opportunity for them to express their individuality and explore their artistic side. The use of biodegradable glitter can also teach learners about sustainability and environmental issues.
The free activity sheet is available to download below.
All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.
You can download our step-by-step instructions below as either a classroom lesson plan or PowerPoint presentation. You can also watch our video tutorial to find out how to make a snow globe. If you’re up for an extra activity, try our number fun activity as well.
And please do share your handmade snow globes with us on social media on Facebook and Twitter using our #SantaLovesSTEM hashtag. You can also send them via email to IETEducation@theiet.org to be featured in our online gallery.
