Ever found yourself craving a quiet moment during the holiday chaos? I get it—between the cookies, carols, and crinkly wrapping paper, December can feel like a snow globe that’s been shaken one too many times! That’s exactly why I started making DIY Christmas Sensory Jars with my kids. These jars are more than just glitter and glue—they’re tiny, swirling moments of peace. And the best part? You can make them at home with stuff you probably already have in your craft drawer. Let’s dive into this festive hands-on project that’s equal parts calming science and Christmas magic.
What You Need to Make a Christmas Sensory Jar
So, let’s talk Christmas sensory jars. If you’ve ever dabbled in DIY holiday crafts for kids, you probably already know how fun (and honestly a bit messy) they can get. The first time I tried making these, I didn’t even have glitter—just grabbed some old sequins and hoped for the best. Spoiler alert: it looked like a snow globe exploded in my kitchen. But hey, live and learn!
Start With the Basics
You don’t need fancy stuff. Here’s what I always keep on hand now:
- Clear plastic or glass jar – Mason jars work, but baby food jars are great too (especially for little hands). Just make sure they have tight lids.
- Clear glue or glitter glue – The thicker the glue, the slower the glitter falls. I go for Elmer’s Glitter Glue most times—it’s cheap and looks stunning.
- Warm water – Cold water makes the glue clump. Been there, regretted that.
- Fine glitter – And I mean fine. Chunky glitter looks cool but it sinks faster. I like silver, red, and green for a real Christmas crafts for kids vibe.
- Mini decorations – Think sequins, snowflakes, beads, or even tiny candy cane charms. One time, I tossed in a jingle bell and it made the coolest sound when shaken.
- Food coloring (optional) – Red and green are obvious, but try blue for a Frozen-inspired theme.
- Ribbon or string (optional) – I like to tie a little bow around the lid. Totally extra, but hey—it’s the holidays!
Where to Buy Supplies (and Save Money)
Let’s be real: holiday craft supplies can add up fast. Here’s where I usually find the best deals:
- Dollar Tree – Can’t beat it for glitter and tiny decorations.
- Amazon – If I need it fast or in bulk. They’ve got holiday glitter glue packs that last forever.
- Michael’s or JoAnn Fabric – Always check for coupons first. I learned that the hard way.
Tips If You’ve Got Toddlers
If you’re making these with toddlers or babies around:
- Use plastic jars—glass is a hard no.
- Hot glue the lids shut. I can’t tell you how many times mine got popped open mid-shake.
- Skip small choking hazard items. Stick with larger sequins or foam shapes.
I wish I’d known all this from the start. I made the mistake of using a metal lid that rusted. Not cute.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Swirl
Okay, now for the fun part—putting your Christmas sensory jar together! I’ve made probably a dozen of these now, and let me tell you: the first one? A gloopy mess. But I figured out some tricks along the way so yours can be Pinterest-worthy on the first try.
1. Fill the Jar with Warm Water
I usually fill the jar about ¾ of the way full. Warm water, not cold. Cold water makes the glue clump, and then you’re stuck scraping glittery blobs off the sides like a glitter crime scene.
2. Mix in the Glue
Pour in about ½ cup of clear glue or glitter glue. If I’m using a small jar (like 4 oz), I just eyeball it—usually a big squeeze will do. Stir it up really well. I use a chopstick because it fits through the jar opening perfectly. Plus, less mess!
Pro Tip: The more glue, the slower the glitter falls. For a calming effect, I add extra glue. If I want it more fast and fun? Less glue, more shake!
3. Add Glitter and Decorations
Now the fun stuff! Toss in your glitter—go wild with holiday colors. I always add at least two colors (like red and silver), plus a few mini decorations like foam snowflakes or sparkly stars. Don’t overdo it, though. I once dumped half a bottle of glitter and it looked like a snowstorm had no visibility.
Bonus tip: If you want a snowy effect, white or iridescent glitter is perfect.
4. Optional: Add Food Coloring
This step’s totally up to you. A single drop of green or red food coloring can completely change the vibe. I did a blue one with white glitter and it turned into a Frozen-themed jar my niece wouldn’t put down.
Just stir gently so you don’t get a bubble bath situation.
5. Top It Off with Water
Now top off the jar with more warm water, but leave a small gap at the top. Trust me—if it’s too full, it’ll leak or get stuck when you shake it. Stir again until everything’s evenly mixed.
6. Seal the Lid (Seriously, Seal It)
This is key. I always hot glue the lid shut. One time I skipped that step and—let’s just say the carpet still has glitter in it. You can also use strong tape if you don’t have glue handy.
7. Decorate the Lid (Optional But Fun)
Wrap a piece of holiday ribbon around the lid and tie a bow. You can even glue a tiny ornament or charm on top for extra flair. I once glued a mini pinecone and it looked like something from a Hallmark movie.
Sensory Benefits for Kids
I’ll be honest—I first made these Christmas sensory jars just for fun. A cute craft for the holidays, nothing more. But then something kinda magical happened… my youngest, who’s usually bouncing off the walls, sat mesmerized watching the glitter swirl around. That’s when I realized these jars are more than just pretty—they’re seriously calming.
Why Sensory Jars Work Like a Charm
- Calming visual stimulation: The slow movement of glitter helps kids visually track and relax. It’s almost hypnotic. My oldest calls it his “glitter tornado.”
- Self-regulation: These jars are amazing for helping kids calm down after meltdowns or hyper moments. We now call ours the “calm-down jar.”
- Focus and mindfulness: When my daughter’s having trouble settling before bedtime, we let her hold a jar and watch the glitter fall until it settles. Works like a dream.
- Supports sensory processing: For kids with autism or ADHD, sensory jars can provide much-needed visual and tactile input. I’ve even had a therapist friend recommend them.
My Personal Hacks That Help
Here’s what I’ve learned through trial and (very glittery) error:
- Add a little extra glue to make the glitter fall super slowly—perfect for calming.
- Use jars with different themes for different moods. A blue/silver “snowstorm” jar for bedtime, a red/gold sparkly one for energy resets.
- Let your kid help make the jar—it gives them ownership and they’re more likely to use it.
I swear, one of the best parenting moves I made last year was making a few sensory jars and stashing them around the house.
When to Use Them
- Before naps or bedtime
- After overstimulation (hello, noisy holiday parties)
- During tantrums or big emotions
- For quiet time or homework breaks
These things are like magic wands with glitter in them.
Creative Christmas Jar Themes to Try
If you’re anything like me, once you make one Christmas sensory jar, you won’t stop at just one. It’s addicting. There’s just something so satisfying about mixing colors, choosing decorations, and watching the whole thing come to life like a little snow globe world. So let’s level it up—here are a few of my favorite themed jars that’ve become instant hits in my house (and on Pinterest!).
🎅 Santa’s Workshop Jar
This one’s a classic. Red glitter, gold stars, and I toss in tiny toy tools or gear-shaped sequins—like little elf tools. I even used red glitter glue once to give it a warm glow. Tie a mini gift tag around the top that says “North Pole Express” for extra fun.
❄️ Frozen Wonderland Jar
Channel your inner Elsa with silver and blue glitter, clear snowflake sequins, and one tiny plastic snowman if you’ve got it. I used light blue food coloring to tint the water, and it turned out gorgeous. My niece now calls it her “ice magic” jar.
🍬 Gingerbread Joy Jar
Think brown and gold glitter, with mini candy cane beads or gingerbread-shaped confetti. I once added cinnamon stick bits for scent—just don’t overdo it or your glitter will stick to the spice like it owes it rent.
🎄 Elf Mischief Jar
Green glitter, red stars, and little jingle bells make this one super playful. I’ve even written a note on the jar like “For Naughty Elves Only” just for laughs. Shake it and it actually makes a fun soft jingling sound—kids love it.
Tips for Themes That Wow
- Stick to two main colors for each jar to avoid the dreaded glitter mud.
- Use plastic trinkets that won’t rust or dissolve over time (learned that one the hard way).
- Add a name label to personalize them—great for gift-giving!
I used to think I had to buy new supplies every time, but honestly? Mix and match what you’ve already got. A leftover sequin here, a rogue snowflake there—it all adds up to something magical.
Safety Tips & Storage Ideas
Alright, here comes the part I wish I’d read before I found a puddle of glitter glue under my couch. 😅 These Christmas sensory jars may look innocent, but if you don’t prep ‘em right, you’ll be vacuuming sparkle until July.
Seal That Lid Like Your Sanity Depends on It
Seriously. If you’ve got toddlers—or curious cats—don’t skip this step.
- Hot glue: My go-to. I run a bead of glue around the inside of the lid before screwing it on.
- Super glue: If you want it permanently shut. Great for gifts!
- Tape option: If you want to reopen the jar later, go with waterproof tape (duct tape in a pinch).
Trust me, one kid flip and a poorly sealed lid = holiday disaster.
Best Jars for Safe Play
Not all jars are created equal.
- Plastic over glass: Especially for kids under 5. I use old peanut butter jars or small water bottles with labels peeled off.
- Wide-mouth jars: Easier for adding decorations without spilling glitter all over your table.
I once used a fancy glass mason jar… until my toddler treated it like a rattle. Never again.
Storage Tips to Make Them Last
If you want your jars to stay beautiful through December—and maybe even next year—follow these:
- Keep them upright when not in use. I store ours in a little crate with dividers.
- Avoid direct sunlight. Heat can break down the glue and fade your colors.
- Shake every few weeks to keep glitter from clumping if you’re storing long-term.
- Check for leaks regularly if you didn’t glue it shut. (I keep a towel under new ones for 24 hours—just in case.)
Holiday Display Ideas
These jars aren’t just toys—they make killer decorations.
- Line them up on the mantel or a windowsill.
- Put them in a basket with pinecones and fairy lights.
- Add name tags and use them as personalized Christmas gifts or stocking stuffers.
Honestly, I’ve had friends think I bought mine at a boutique. Nope—just me, my kids, and a LOT of glitter.
And just like that—you’ve got yourself a little jar of Christmas magic. ✨
What started as a simple craft quickly became one of our most cherished holiday traditions. These Christmas sensory jars aren’t just adorable—they’re calming, creative, and filled with joy. Whether you’re helping your little one wind down after a sugar rush or just adding a bit of sparkle to your holiday décor, these jars do the trick.
I’ve made them during snow days, used them as calm-down tools during meltdowns, and even given them as gifts (spoiler: people love them). There’s just something about shaking up a jar and watching the glitter slowly drift that feels like instant peace. A tiny snowstorm in your hands.
So go ahead—grab some glue, pick your glitter, and dive into some holiday magic with your family.
💡 Loved this DIY? Pin it and share the sparkle!
You never know who might need a little extra calm this Christmas.
