Description

Create a magical glow-in-the-dark fireworks effect inside a jar with this fun and easy DIY sensory craft. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this non-toxic, no-cook activity uses simple household ingredients like glow-in-the-dark paint, oil, and water to produce swirling, glowing patterns that simulate fireworks. Enjoy an enchanting light show that recharges with any light source, ideal for sensory play or decorative purposes.

Ingredients

Scale

Materials

1 clear glass or plastic jar (mason jar works great)
Warm water (enough to fill the jar about 3/4 full)
1 tablespoon glow-in-the-dark paint or glow powder (non-toxic, water-activated)
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or baby oil)
Assorted food coloring (optional, a few drops)
1 teaspoon dish soap
Glitter (optional, small amount)
Small whisk or fork for stirring

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Jar: Fill the clear glass or plastic jar about three-quarters full with warm water, ensuring there’s enough space left to add the other ingredients without overflowing.
Mix Glow Solution: In a separate small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of non-toxic, water-activated glow-in-the-dark paint or glow powder with 2 tablespoons of vegetable or baby oil. Stir thoroughly until the two ingredients are well blended. Add a few drops of food coloring if you desire extra vibrant colors.
Add Glow Mixture: Slowly pour the glowing oil mixture into the jar filled with warm water. The oil will float atop the water, ready to swirl and create the fireworks effect.
Add Dish Soap: Add 1 teaspoon of dish soap into the jar to help break up the oil and produce beautiful swirling patterns resembling fireworks.
Mix Gently: Stir gently with a fork, whisk, or by carefully shaking the jar. Watch as the glowing oil creates vivid, swirling fireworks within the jar’s water.
Enjoy the Glow: Turn off the lights or take the jar into a dark space to enjoy the magical glowing fireworks effect. To recharge the glow, place the jar near a light source for several minutes before viewing again.

Notes

Make sure to use only non-toxic glow-in-the-dark materials, especially when doing this activity with children.
You can seal the jar tightly to use it as a glowing sensory bottle for calm and relaxation.
Recharging the glow requires exposure to light; sunlight or strong artificial light works best.
Optional glitter can enhance the visual effect but is not necessary.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: DIY Activity
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: N/A

Nutrition

Serving Size: Not applicable
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