Last updated: November 11, 2026
Snow globe crafts are one of the easiest ways to turn a clean jar and a pinch of sparkle into cozy winter decor. Below you will find five different ways to make them, plus simple tips for choosing supplies, gifting, and keeping little hands safe.
Mason Jar Snow Globe Crafts for a Classic Look
The mason jar version is the one most people picture first, and it is the perfect place to start. You only need a clean jar with a lid, a small figurine or scene, waterproof glue, and some glitter or faux snow.
Glue your scene to the inside of the lid and let it cure fully before anything wet goes near it. Check the glue label to make sure it says waterproof, and follow the dry time the manufacturer lists.
Next, fill the jar nearly to the top with water and drop in your glitter or snow. A few drops of clear glycerin can slow the sparkle down so it floats instead of sinking, though the jar works fine without it.
Screw the lid on tight, flip the jar over, and give it a gentle shake. If you spot a leak, dry everything off and reseal the lid with a thin line of waterproof sealant.
Set the finished globe on a mantel or shelf where it stays upright. Mason jar snow globe crafts also look lovely grouped together with a different scene in each jar.
Easy Snow Globe Crafts for Kids
Kids love snow globe crafts because the shaking part feels like magic. A clear plastic jar or a lidded plastic container keeps things sturdy and takes the worry out of drops and bumps.
Let little ones pick the scene, whether that is a tiny tree, a toy animal, or a paper cutout covered in clear tape. Laminated paper scenes hold up well in water and give kids plenty of room to draw their own designs.
Adults should handle the glue and the lid sealing, since that is the step that keeps the water inside. Small beads and glitter can also be a choking or eye irritation risk for younger children, so supervise closely and save the sparkle for kids who are past the putting-things-in-mouths stage.
When the globe is sealed, let the kids decorate the outside of the lid with ribbon, stickers, or paint. A felt circle glued under the base protects tables from scratches and makes the globe easier to display.
Finish the afternoon with hot cocoa while everyone shakes their snow globes. These easy snow globe crafts for kids work well for classroom parties, rainy days, and holiday playdates.
Dry Snow Globe Crafts With No Water
If you want a snow globe craft without the risk of leaks, a dry version is a great answer. You simply fill a clear jar or glass dome with faux snow, tiny trees, and a favorite figure, then seal it up.
Dry globes are lighter, easier to mail, and safe to pick up without worrying about spills. They also work well for people who want to keep a snow globe on a bookshelf year after year.
Start by gluing your scene to the base or lid, then let it set completely. Pour in a thin layer of fake snow and add small details like mini pinecones or pom pom trees around the figure.
A fun twist is to use sparkly cotton batting, white salt, or crushed foam to create texture. Each material gives the scene a different look, so try a couple of options before you decide.
Dry snow globe crafts are also a smart choice for classroom projects and craft fairs. They stay tidy on the table and can be finished in a single sitting.
Ornament Snow Globe Crafts for the Tree
Clear fillable ornaments make wonderful snow globe crafts that hang right on the tree. They come in a range of shapes and are sold at most craft stores in the fall.
Pop the cap off, drop in a little faux snow, and add a small paper or foam scene on a wire. A strip of felt trim around the inside edge can hide the seam and give your scene a polished finish.
Because these ornaments are small, they are easy to personalize with initials, tiny photos, or a year. Many families make one every winter to build a collection of memories.
Keep fragile glass ornaments out of reach of toddlers and pets, and choose shatterproof plastic if you are crafting with kids. Always check the packaging for age guidance before handing supplies to a child.
Hang your finished ornaments with ribbon or twine. They also make sweet gift toppers when tied to the outside of a wrapped present.
Photo and Memory Snow Globe Crafts
For a personal twist, build your snow globe craft around a printed photo. A laminated or sealed photo cutout can stand inside a jar and turn the globe into a keepsake.
Print your picture on regular paper, trim it to fit, and cover both sides with clear packing tape or laminating sheets so no water can soak in. Sealing the edges twice gives you extra protection against moisture.
Family portraits, pets, and favorite vacation spots all make great subjects. Add a small bit of faux snow around the base and the photo becomes the centerpiece.
These globes make heartfelt gifts for grandparents and teachers. Tie a bow around the lid and tuck a handwritten note underneath.
If you prefer a dry version, skip the water and let the photo stand in a bed of faux snow. That keeps the picture safe from moisture while still giving you the cozy look of a classic snow globe.
Choosing Supplies for Snow Globe Crafts
Good supplies make snow globe crafts much more fun and much less frustrating. Start with a jar or dome that is clear, smooth, and has a lid that seals well.
For the scene, look for small plastic or resin figurines, since many other materials can break down in water. Test any painted piece by dipping it in a bowl of water first so you know the color will not run.
Waterproof glue is the most important item on the list. Read the label carefully, follow the directions, and give the glue the full drying time before you add water.
Glitter and faux snow come in many sizes, and finer pieces tend to float longer than chunky ones. Keep these away from young kids and pets, and sweep up spills right away so nothing ends up in a mouth.
Finally, set out a towel and a small tray before you begin. Snow globe crafts are fun but sometimes messy, and a little prep makes cleanup quick.
Why Snow Globe Crafts Make Thoughtful Gifts
A handmade snow globe feels special because it holds a little scene made just for the person receiving it. You can match the figure to a hobby, a hometown memory, or a favorite holiday tradition.
Teachers, neighbors, and coworkers often appreciate a small handmade gift more than something store bought. A snow globe is also easy to wrap, since a clear jar looks pretty with a bit of tissue paper and ribbon.
If you are making several at once, set up an assembly line with one step at a time. Glue all the lids first, let them dry together, and then fill and seal the jars.
Add a small tag that explains how to care for the globe. A simple note to keep it upright and away from heat sources helps your gift last for years.
Snow Globe Crafts Questions
Can you make snow globe crafts without glycerin?
Yes, glycerin is optional. Your glitter will fall a bit faster without it, but the globe still looks pretty and works just fine.
What kind of glue works best for snow globe crafts?
Look for a glue that is labeled waterproof and safe for use with glass or plastic. Follow the label instructions and let the glue cure for the full time listed before adding water.
How do you keep a water snow globe from leaking?
Make sure the lid is clean and dry before you seal it. A thin line of waterproof sealant around the threads adds extra protection, and you should always check the product label for directions.
Are snow globe crafts safe for kids?
They can be a fun activity when an adult leads the glue and sealing steps. Keep small beads, glitter, and fragile glass away from young children and always supervise closely.
How long do homemade snow globes last?
Many homemade globes look great for a season or more when they are sealed well and kept out of direct sunlight and heat. Dry snow globe crafts tend to last the longest because there is no water to cloud or leak.
Start Your Snow Globe Crafts Today
Snow globe crafts are a budget friendly way to bring a little winter magic into your home. Whether you choose a classic mason jar, a dry globe, or a tree ornament, you can finish a project in a single afternoon.
Pick the style that fits your family, gather your supplies, and set up a cozy crafting spot. Then shake, sparkle, and enjoy the snow globe crafts you made together.
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