Ice Crystal Ornaments
Create beautiful ice crystal ornaments using simple materials for a touch of winter magic in your home.
Ingredients
For the Ornament Mixture
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 cups salt Kosher salt is recommended for larger crystals.
- 1 string or yarn For hanging the ornament.
- 1 shallow dish or pan Like a baking dish.
- 1 pencil or stick For hanging.
- a few drops food coloring Optional for colored crystals.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine warm water and salt.
- Stir until the salt is fully dissolved, creating a saturated solution. This may take a few minutes.
Setting Up
- Cut a length of string or yarn to your desired ornament length.
- Tie one end of the string to a pencil or stick, leaving a long tail.
- Lay the pencil across the top of your dish, allowing the string to dangle into the saltwater solution.
Crystallization
- Place your dish in a cool, undisturbed location. As it cools, crystals will begin to form.
- Wait 24-48 hours to achieve the desired crystal growth. You’ll know it’s ready when you see large, beautiful ice-like crystals.
Finishing
- Carefully remove your ornament from the solution.
- Allow it to dry completely on a paper towel or a drying rack.
Notes
Custom colors can be added with food coloring, and different shapes can be made using cookie cutters. Dust finished ornaments with glitter for extra sparkle.