DIY Calm Down Jars are a wonderful craft that offers both creativity and calming benefits. These jars, often filled with glitter, water, and various shapes, serve as mesmerizing pieces that can help soothe anxiety and promote mindfulness. As you gently shake the jar and watch the glitter swirl, it’s not only visually captivating but can also provide a moment of tranquility in our busy lives. Making a calm down jar is an excellent activity for both children and adults, encouraging relaxation and concentration while also adding a personal touch to your home décor. Whether you’re managing stress, teaching mindfulness techniques to kids, or simply creating a beautiful piece of art, this craft is versatile and fun! Follow along with our simple guide to create your very own calm down jar.
Why You’ll Love This DIY Calm Down Jars:
- Promotes Calmness: The soothing visuals can help ease anxiety and stress.
- Fun and Creative: A great way to express your artistic side with vibrant colors and designs.
- Easy to Make: Requires minimal materials and can be completed in less than an hour.
- Versatile Uses: Perfect for kids during meltdowns or for adults needing a moment to unwind.
- Great Gift Idea: Personalized jars make thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
Materials
- Clear jar with a lid (mason jars work well)
- Warm water
- Glitter (various colors and shapes)
- Liquid glue (optional for thicker texture)
- Food coloring (optional)
- Items for added interest (sequins, beads, small toys)
- A mixing stick (like a craft stick or spoon)
Full Step-by-Step
1. Prepare Your Jar
- Start by washing your jar and ensuring it is completely dry.
- Remove any labels or stickers for a clean look.
2. Fill the Jar
- Pour warm water into the jar, leaving some space at the top.
- Optionally, add a few drops of food coloring to the water for a colored base.
3. Add the Glitter
- Sprinkle in your desired amount of glitter. More glitter gives a denser look, while less results in a more sparkly effect.
4. Incorporate Additional Decorations
- Add sequins, beads, or other small items to enhance visual interest.
5. Mix in Liquid Glue (Optional)
- If you want a thicker settling effect, mix in liquid glue. This will make the glitter take longer to settle.
6. Seal the Jar
- Close the lid tightly. For added security, you can seal it with hot glue or tape.
7. Shake and Enjoy
- Shake the jar and watch as the glitter swirls! Use it anytime you need a moment of calm.
Tips & Variations
- Customize Your Glitter: Experiment with different types of glitter or use biodegradable glitter for an eco-friendly option.
- Create Themed Jars: Use holiday colors (like red and green for Christmas) or seasonal themes (bright colors for summer).
- Scented Jars: Add a few drops of essential oils to the water for a sensory experience.
- Personal Touch: Include small keepsakes or mementos relevant to the person it’s for.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use plastic instead of glass for the jar?
- Yes, plastic jars work just as well! Just ensure the lid seals tightly.
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What if I don’t have liquid glue?
- You can skip it entirely. Just using water and glitter will still create a beautiful effect.
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How long will the glitter stay suspended?
- If you use liquid glue, the glitter will settle more slowly. Without it, the glitter will settle faster.
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Can I change the contents later?
- Yes! You can always add or remove materials by unscrewing the lid, especially if you use a mason jar.
Suggestions
- Create a Calm Down Jar for each child and let them personalize it with their favorite colors.
- Host a crafting day with friends and make several jars together—comparing designs and colors can be an enjoyable social event!
- Use the jar as a therapeutic tool, integrating it into mindfulness exercises or meditation sessions.
Final Thoughts
Making a DIY Calm Down Jar is not just a craft; it’s an opportunity for mindfulness and relaxation. We hope you enjoy creating yours! We’d love to see your unique versions—feel free to share your photos or leave a comment below with your experiences or any variations you tried!
Print
DIY Calm Down Jar
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 jar
- Diet: N/A
Description
Learn to create a mesmerizing calm down jar that promotes relaxation and mindfulness, perfect for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- Clear jar with a lid (mason jars work well)
- Warm water
- Glitter (various colors and shapes)
- Liquid glue (optional for thicker texture)
- Food coloring (optional)
- Items for added interest (sequins, beads, small toys)
- A mixing stick (like a craft stick or spoon)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Jar: Wash your jar and ensure it is dry. Remove any labels or stickers.
- Fill the Jar: Pour warm water into the jar, leaving some space at the top, and optionally add food coloring.
- Add the Glitter: Sprinkle in your desired amount of glitter.
- Incorporate Additional Decorations: Add sequins, beads, or other small items.
- Mix in Liquid Glue (Optional): If desired for a thicker effect, mix in liquid glue.
- Seal the Jar: Close the lid tightly, optionally sealing with hot glue or tape.
- Shake and Enjoy: Shake the jar and watch as the glitter swirls!
Notes
Customize your jar with different glitter and colors. Consider adding essential oils for scented jars!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Craft
- Method: Crafting
- Cuisine: N/A
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 0
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg