Crafted Light Jars
Perfect for holidays, decor, centerpieces, and more!
Epsom salt isn’t just for baths; it also makes a beautiful, sparkling coating for homemade glass jar luminaries. When dyed with food coloring and glued to the outside of a jar, the salt creates a frosted, crystal-like finish that softly glows when a candle or LED light is placed inside. This easy craft is perfect for kids (with supervision) and makes lovely seasonal or holiday decorations.
Recipe
Ingredients
- Epsom salt
- Food coloring (any color)
- White school glue or craft glue
- Glass jars (mason jars or recycled jars)
- Small bowls or zip-top bags (for mixing color)
- Spoon (for stirring)
- Paper plates or tray (to catch excess salt)
- Paintbrush (optional, for spreading glue)
- Tea light candles or battery-operated LED lights
Instructions
1. Dye the Epsom Salt
Pour Epsom salt into a bowl or zip-top bag.
Add a few drops of food coloring.
Stir or shake until the color is evenly distributed.
Spread the salt out on a plate or tray and allow it to dry completely.
2. Prepare the Jar
Make sure the outside of the jar is clean and dry.
Brush or spread a thin, even layer of glue onto the outside surface of the jar.
3. Add the Salt Coating
Roll the glued jar in the dyed Epsom salt or sprinkle salt over it until fully covered.
Gently press the salt onto the surface to help it adhere.
Let the jar dry completely (several hours or overnight).
How to Use
Once dry, place a tea light or battery-operated LED candle inside the jar. When lit, the light shines through the salt crystals, creating a soft, glowing effect. Arrange multiple luminaries together for a colorful centerpiece, line them along a walkway, or use them as festive décor for holidays and special occasions.
Safety tip: Always use battery-operated candles with children, and never leave real candles unattended.
Learn more about the many uses and applications of Epsom Salt below.
