Ingredients
- 1 clean glass jar with a screw lid, 16 fluid ounces, wide mouth preferred
- 4 ounces of white cotton balls or loose cotton batting
- 4 washable acrylic or tempera paint colors, 1 tablespoon of each color (deep blue, purple, pink, and teal work well)
- 1/4 cup of water for diluting the paint
- 1 teaspoon of fine iridescent glitter, divided into four 1/4 teaspoon portions
- 1 small mixing cup, 4 fluid ounces (one reused yogurt cup works)
- 1 small spoon, 6 inches long
- 1 wooden skewer, 6 inches long, for making small swirls
- 1 sheet of wax paper, 12 by 18 inches
- 1 disposable table covering or drop cloth, at least 24 by 36 inches
- 1 pair of disposable nitrile gloves, medium or large
- 1 roll of paper towels, for small spills
- 1 fine-tip permanent marker, optional for marking the lid
Instructions
- Cover your table with the drop cloth before you open any paint, then place the wax paper in the center.
- Wash the 16 fluid ounce glass jar and lid with warm, soapy water, then rinse them well. Dry the inside completely with a clean paper towel and let the jar sit open for 10 minutes.
- Put on the nitrile gloves and prepare the diluted paint. Add 1 tablespoon of one paint color and 1 tablespoon of water to the mixing cup, then stir with the spoon until the color looks fluid but still bright. Repeat with the remaining three colors.
- Pull apart enough cotton to cover the bottom of the jar in a loose layer about 1 inch deep. Do not pack it firmly yet.
- Add the first color with the spoon, using about 1 tablespoon of diluted paint across the cotton. Drip it in several places rather than pouring it into one spot. Turn the jar slightly and use the skewer to guide the color through the fibers.
- Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of glitter over the first layer. Tap the jar gently on the table once or twice so the glitter settles into the cotton.
- Add a second loose layer of cotton, about 1 inch deep, and repeat the paint and glitter process with the second color.
- Continue with the third and fourth colors, using 1 inch of cotton, 1 tablespoon of diluted paint, and 1/4 teaspoon of glitter for each layer.
- Pause and look at the jar from several sides. Adjust any harsh stripes or color blends as needed.
- Fill the jar to about 1/2 inch below the lid threads and wipe the rim and lid threads with a dry paper towel before closing the jar.
- Close the lid gently without forcing it. Set the jar upright on the wax paper and leave it undisturbed for at least 12 hours.
- Inspect the jar for moisture or loose glitter around the lid after drying time. If necessary, leave the lid loosely placed for another 6 to 8 hours in a dry room.
- Once the jar looks settled, tighten the lid, wipe the outside clean, and remove the gloves.
Notes
Keep the jar out of direct sunlight for long periods to avoid paint fading and condensation. Store it upright wrapped in tissue paper to prevent any damage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
