Snowglobes - Fun, Easy to Make Toys

Have you ever played with a snowglobe? If so, you know what fun it can be to shake one and watch the 'snow' float to the surface, try to catch floating rings on a tower, or otherwise enjoy the motion of the items inside. On a bad day, shaking a snowglobe and watching the results can fascinate and calm you. Children love to play with them, too.

A snowglobe, also known as a snowdome or water dome, is basically some kind of dome or transparent sphere atop a flat-bottomed base. It is filled with glitter, plastic rings, or bits of white 'snow', along with a small scene or landscape of some sort. A snowglobe is usually filled with water mixed with a bit of antifreeze. This mixture helps keep the glitter or other materials suspended a bit longer, so they fall more naturally and slowly.

Nobody knows quite when snowglobes originated, though some think they started in France in the 1800s, perhaps as an early paperweight. As they became more readily available and spread through the world, snowdomes became popular collector's items. They are readily available in much of the world and are generally inexpensive, making them easy and fun to collect. In addition to the commonly available plastic models, there are more expensive glass varieties, often produced in limited quantities. More recently, large inflatable snowglobes became available as holiday decor. Through forced air, the snow blows continuously on wintry or Christmas themed scenes.

In addition to being a fun collectible, snowglobes are easy to make. They make great gifts, especially during winter holidays. They can also be a fun craft project for kids.

To make a snowglobe, you'll need a few simple supplies. These include a glass jar with a lid, such as a baby food jar; glitter or crushed egg shells to serve as 'snow'; small trinkets such as trees or people to make the scene; and glue or aquarium sealant to connect items to the base of the jar.

Start by gluing your people, animals, or other items to the inside of the lid. Good size items can be found at craft or toy stores - just be sure to keep them away from small children! Next, fill the jar with water and antifreeze; mineral oil, or baby oil. All three should help your snow float while not damaging the items in the globe. Make sure you add in glitter, confetti, plastic rings, egg shells or other floating items to the water or oil. Next, carefully attach the lid to the jar and seal it. You may want to add more glue or sealant to the outside rim of the jar to make sure it stays tightly closed. You're done - and it really is that easy!

Whether you're wanting to give away homemade gifts, work on a fun family project, or provide a fun activity for your child's next party, making a snowglobe is a good activity. They are fun, easy, and inexpensive to make, and they will provide years of fun and enjoyment for the recipient.

The author has worked with and volunteered for a wide variety of charitable organizations. Through this work, she has learned many tricks and tips for holding successful fundraising events, including making things like snowglobes. Visit her website http://snowglobes.gitoy.com/ to learn more about making, buying, or collecting snowglobes.

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