 |
Recently I’ve seen a few crafty ideas around the internet using epsom salts, but I wanted to come up with something different. I’ve been itching to make some new luminaries, something that would be elegant and pretty against winter’s white snow. Something that says Christmas, but isn’t limited to the holiday. Something that could be kept out all winter long. The idea for these epsom salt luminaries hit me and I couldn’t wait to take the idea from my head and make them a reality.
UPDATE: Please see my article on crafting with epsom salts for important information (including info on discoloration), especially if you plan to make these for an important event such as a wedding. These should be one of the last things you make, no more than a week before the wedding.
Recently I saw some really pretty sea glass luminaries in white, light blue and light green. I really wanted to make my luminaries in these colors, so I simple mixed a tiny amount of food coloring with the epsom salts.
To get the effect, I made a little video for you. Just click to play above :)
I really love how they came out and while I didn’t do it with mine, you could add a pretty white ribbon around the center tied into a bow in front for a delicate accent.
Note about jars: You can use any type of jar you want for these. I used some canning jars, and the shorter ones are from those $3 candles you get at WalMart. I always save them and clean them out once the candle is used up.
If you make these I would love to hear about it! :) I think these would make pretty teacher or neighbor gifts!
These can be changed for different holidays too (think Valentine’s Day!). After winter, these would be a pretty addition to a beachy bathroom, or even in the summer on the porch!
Now on with the tutorial.
Epsom Salt Luminaries
by Amanda Formaro
printable version
empty jars
epsom salts
blue and green food coloring
paper plates
3 bowls
Mod Podge
Clear gloss sealer
Put about one cup of epsom salts into each bowl. Add ONE DROP of blue food coloring to one of the bowls and mix until evenly distributed. Add ONE DROP of green food coloring to another bowl and mix.
Put the white epsom salts onto a paper plate and gently shake back and forth to get an even layer. Place your hand inside the jar.
Use a paintbrush to coat the jar generously in Mod Podge. You want to use a generous amount, but not so much that it’s dripping off the jar. First paint around the bottom rim of the jar, then the body of the jar, then the top rim. (Notice that in the picture below there’s no Mod Podge on the rim. IGNORE that, just follow my instructions instead.)
Starting at the bottom rim of the jar, roll in the epsom salts. Next roll the body of the jar and the top rim.
Stand the jar up onto a separate paper plate and add some Mod Podge to the top lip of the jar. Sprinkle some epsom salts onto the lip.
Repeat this process for each color. Allow each jar to dry for a few hours. Use a clean paintbrush to loosen and remove any salt that fell inside the jars and to gently knock off any excess on the outside of the jars.
Spray with a clear gloss sealer. Let dry for about 20 minutes, repeat for a total of 3 coats.
NOTE: I tried several different coatings over the salt (Mod Podge in three different types and a triple thick paint on gloss sealer) but the spray sealer works the best.
|
These are so pretty. I may try my hand at them after Christmas.
Hello Amanda,
I will give these a try during cold winter months . Lost my husband a year ago this February and these will look real pretty in front of his picture… Thank you . Annie
I’m sorry for your loss Annie! I hope you enjoy the project. :)
Im so sorry for your loss,i lost my father over 10 years ago to cancer
Annie,
I was looking at the Epsom Salt Luminary Votive holders and saw your comment about the loss of your husband and wanting to place some of these in from of his picture. I thought that was beautiful. My deepest condolences to you on the passing of your dear husband. I think it would be a lovely sentiment to honor him in this way. Created from your hands with love, to honor your love.
Ooooh :( that’s sad, but that comment wasn’t mine. :( That had to be a comment on someone’s pin from Pinterest? What a lovely gesture.
I totally agree, that’s a wonderful thing for you to do. I’m sure it will turn out very nice.
AND you can do all sizes, I’m sure any shapes besides a Mason Jar would even work:)
God Bless you
Sorry for your loss. Just lost my husband suddenly this March and I love your idea for using this by a picture.
Amanda, you rock, these are awesome!
xoxo
I’m going to make them for our assisted livig actities with a small battery lite in each. Thanks
I will definitely be trying this…they are beautiful!
beautiful. just got me going. ok question, can they be given as gifts.? help me out on this and thank you, Lena
I absolutely LOVE these!! So simple and beautiful!!!
Fabulous idea. I love epsom salt – cool stuff.
I can't wait to try this! thanks for sharing!
These are beautiful, I can't wait to try them. Thank you so much for posting them! I feel lucky to have found your site. Have a wonderful holiday. ~Lori
Those are so pretty! I always save my candle jars with the idea of doing something with them, now I have an idea!
These are beautiful. Who would have thought they were made with Epsom salt. Thanks for sharing
These are really beautiful! Great job and happy holidays :)
Ditto what everyone already said…really, really pretty :)
Wow what a cute ,simple & creative way to brighten up the winter! Love the idea I will be trying it as soon as I can:)
thanks for the detailed directions
Debbie (a new fan of yours)
Brilliant! I'm going to do this one with my daughter who loves crafting. Thanks!
Alison
These are truly amazing! I can't wait to buy some epsom salts and make them, too! I love the colors, too.
http://www.uvinyl.blogspot.com
these are really pretty and I am very suprised that they are made using epsom salt
I just saw this on Finding Fabulous and had to tell you how beautiful these are! So creative. Just love them.
OH my gosh..these are so pretty!
These are gorgeous!!
So beautiful!
These are such a wonderful idea!!
saw you on Be Different, Act Normal and i love love LoVe this idea!!! definitely gonna have to make some for gifts next year! :D thanks for the inspiration ;)
Could you use rock salt?
SO lovely. I totally want to try this out. Thanks for sharing.
Just Another Day in Paradise
How very cute, thanks for sharing your clever project
Thank you all so much! I hope you try them and let me know if you do :)
Deanna – I am not totally sure about using rock salt. Rock salt is mostly for melting ice on driveways and sidewalks and for using in an ice cream maker. I can't attest to using the rock salt, but you can buy epsom salt really cheap from walmart or even the dollar store :)
these are wonderful :)
i have a question….on the spray sealer is it flamable? or do you just use the battery tea lites?
I love all your ideas and wonder if you have tried any craft with light bulbs that are perfectly round glass, except for the stem on the top. I've saved about a dozen.
Cathy
Ecofroggy – The sealer only goes on the outside of the jar, so there's no worry about the flame causing any problems. I have used this on my luminaries for years :) You can certainly use the battery operated tea lights, I have been using real tea lights since I made them. No problems :)
cathy – I haven't made anything with the round light bulbs, but do have several regular shaped incandescent bulb crafts. Here are some ideas ;) http://www.craftsbyamanda.com/search/label/light%20bulb
I wonder if you could leave off the sealer on all or just the top part of the jar. Then put scented oil on the salts and when it warmed it would smell good? Any idea if this would work?
My epsom salts had a eucalyptus type smell, not my favorite. Adding the sealer definitely helped to kill that smell. If you want to add fragrance, I would suggest doing as you would when making bath salts. Add any color and fragrance oil before gluing to the jar. The sealer does help keep any extra loose pieces of salt from falling off. If you wanted to leave some section unsealed, I would actually suggest the lower part of the jar where the heat from the tea light is closest to. Leaving the top section unsealed could cause a couple of issues:
1) lifting the jar from the top can cause loose pieces of salt to fall off
2) loose pieces may fall inside the jar
Would love to hear if it works, so if you try it I hope you'll come back and let me know! :)
I ADORE this craft! This would be so fun for my students to make–outside. :)
Amanda, what a great site- thanks for sharing! I hope you don't mind- I snagged a couple of your pictures to link on my post. Great ideas!
I gotta make these. I love em.thank you so much!
I so love this THRIFTY idea…hop over and share it at my NIFTY THRIFTY TUESDAYS PARTY…hope to see ya there:) Love your blog, so I’m going to follow along. Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas!
Blessings,
Linda
I LOVE this Amanda! The outcome is so gorgeous and the colours truly unique. I've featured this on SNS #61's sidebar this weekend. :)
Donna
http://funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot.com/
Pretty, pretty, pretty. These would be so great at a wedding too!
These are just STUNNING and would look devine with my turquoise and silver Christmas decor. Will be trying these for sure!!
LOVE this tutorial! They look frozen!
Very Pretty. What a fun project. I may have to try that.
Thanks for the inspiration!
~Heidi
LOVE THESE !!! They're amazing all lit up. Fantastic thrifty idea…. one I might very well try!
This is such a great tutorial. They have such a sparkle even unlit. Great holiday craft.
I've been using epsom salt to wind my kids down…so I always have plenty in my home…
These would make a great gift for my SIL…
Following you now, and off to see your other projects…
Nicolette
p.s. if you have a sec, link these up to my creative juice party!
http://momnivoresdilemma.blogspot.com/2010/12/creative-juice-thursday-3.html
Try mixing epsom salts with beer, just enough to dissolve the salts, and then daubing it on any glass, (I put it on the back of an aquarium). It dries in the same Jack Frost patterns you used to see on windows in the winter, back before they were made with double panes of glass. Thanks for the memories,
Eileen
Thanks Eileen! I JUST saw an example of that the other day. It's very cool looking :) Thanks!
You had so many comments I almost didn't leave you another one, but then I thought heck, you deserve to hear, "You Rock!" one more time! Can't wait to try this out! jules
Love this. What a great idea!
great project. thanks
blessings
barbara jean
So very pretty, thank you for sharing this.
That is so cool, and it seems so easy. What a fabulous idea.
I made Danish Christmas Hearts and Paper Christmas Stars to cheer up our tree.
Happy Holidays!
JRFrugalMom from
Frugality Is Free
What a pretty idea and so easy to do..thanks for sharing…love it
ps. hope it's OK l've added a link to my blog l love the idea so much?
Suz x
Love this idea, and can't wait to try it! I'm now a follower!.. Wishing you and yours blessings and lots of holiday fun in the days ahead! ~tina
Love this idea! Great job, can't wait to try it!
Such a cool craft! They look so pretty all lit up! I'd love to have you submit this to the M&T Spotlight: http://www.makeandtakes.com/spotlight
this is such a great idea they look so festive…
Gosh, lovely and very festive!! What is gorgeous about these, is that you can enjoy them well into Jan or Feb (if not all year round!)
Maggy
These are terrific! I have relatives coming in tomorrow, so I can make these as a little extra something for them. I absolutely LOVE this. Thanks!
The food coloring is genius. I have to make these for my winter porch! I'll be spreading the word as well.
Love these! So pretty. And I like the slight color to them.
Love these !
These are really beautiful! I can't wait to try some to give as gifts. I was looking to buy some mod podge – I've never used it before – and there are so many different kinds! Would it matter which ones I use for these or did you use a certain kind? Thanks…
That's a good question Debbie. For this project I would just buy the Matte Finish. There are a lot of different kinds, but that one would suit your needs for this and work for hundreds of other projects as well :)
Thanks Amanda – I'll go for the matte one & look forward to making these!
These are SO PRETTY!! I am totally making them for Valentine's day. Or pretty much any other holiday I can think of. BTW, I never knew how much I liked luminaries until I Stumbled on to your blog. Every time I see a new one that you've made I get a happy squeal inside. :D
I absolutely loved these. So I planned for a girlfriend of my to come over and we had a craft day and made these. We made a dozen of them in no time. We made green, blue and red ones. Turned out just beautiful! If you sold these how much would you sell them for? Thank you for all your wonderful ideas.
Hi Mary, so glad you enjoyed the project and that they came out great! To be honest, I wouldn't sell them. After a few weeks the salt will end up taking on a white appearance and can begin to fall off. I wouldn't feel comfortable offering these for sale. These are great for immediate use for a party, wedding or backyard get together, but long term they are not ideal.
These are beautiful and oh so thrifty! Thanks for sharing. I pinned them to my board at http://pinterest.com/pin/19844038/
I LOVE this idea!!
Thank you Tammy!
Found these on pinterest — planning on making some for my best friend for Christmas (we're doing ALL handmade goodies this year!)
I LOVE this idea. I found it on Pinterest. Thanks!
LOVE this idea! Do you know if something other than Mod Podge would work? Maybe a tacky glue? (just cheaper) Found you on stumbleupon.com. Adding you as a favorite!
I’m sure a tacky glue would work fine :0)
I tried making these this past week. My friend is getting married and asked for candle holders, and being the crafty bridesmaid that I am I volunteered. It took some trial and error but I was able to match her colors almost exactly using different food coloring but learned very quickly that after the first coat you need to seal it if you want to add more glue the darker colors change when they get wet with the mod podge glue. I also bought my candle holders from Ikea they come in packs of 4 for 1.49$ which is a bargain when making so many. Thanks so much for the inspiration!
That is so fabulous! I only hope the wedding is soon? The colors do change to white after they’ve sat for a while.
What a wonderfull idea!, I am making these also for my wedding , can you tell me roughly how long it is before the color changes to white? Just so i don’t make them too early!!
Hi janice. I wish I could, I didn’t really time it. I know it doesn’t matter if you have heat or not, they will eventually turn white and I believe it’s from the moisture in the glue. I would suggest as I did for someone else, that you experiment with one now. Then you’ll know how long they will last before turning. If you make them a week ahead of time though, you should be safe :) I know that mine lasted longer than that.
I’m not sure if this will work, but I follow this link to learn how to paint them http://www.marthastewart.com/269787/yellow-votives
Then put on the epsom salt on. I would think the colors would show thru and they would not fade. Hope it works!
please let me know if it works for you Julia!
These are gorgeous! I found the pic that someone had pinned on Pinterest and found your blog! I absolutely love these and cannot wait to make them! Thanks for the tutorial!
Thanks Ms. Salti!
[...] excellent idea was sparked by this blog post, although her epsom salts look MUCH different than mine (hers look more like real salt, mine look [...]
These would make GREAT and economical centerpieces!
Just wanted to let you know that I found this tut on Pinterest. I love it and made 6 this afternoon.
Proud new follower. Have a great weekend!
How fun, thanks!
I love these, and have actually made several of them. My question is do any of you have a problem with them turning white after you burn one or two tea lights in them? I have tried everything I know to keep this from happening, but it always does, lol.
I’ve had the same issue. They do turn white after a while. But the salt can simply be rubbed off with your hands and reapplied.
If the colors wear off after a few weeks, can you clean the jars of the salts and re-use them? Or do you just toss them? (Personally, I would not be a fan of tossing the jars after only a few weeks …)
Yes, you can remove the salt and reuse them :)
I love this! This looks like a great gift idea.
It might be possible to use mica or other powdered colorants (ultramarines and oxides) in these instead of food coloring… Then the color wouldn’t fade. Just mix in with the salt. This looks like a really fun project!
Thanks so much for those suggestions Tasha!
I love these, I made them tonight for a birthday party. They were very easy and quick. I think people will love them. I made fall colors, yellow, orange, and a pretty green.
My colors are deeper and I wish I had used less dye so they were more see-through. Another suggestion I have is – if using mason jars, choose ones with wide mouth top. The regular size mouth is hard to get your whole hand into, and I have small hands.
Oh yes, definitely using the wide mouth jars is easier. So glad you enjoyed them!
We love your site. I have a daughter that has CVID which make it where we don’t allow her to go to the movies, Walmart, etc. So she’s turned to crafts at age 10. We just finished the Halloween luminaries. She thought that was a blast and they are so darn cute with our other decorations. Now I will get her the stuff to start this one. Thank You from the bottom of a moms heart for all the ideas!
Oh Brandi! That must be such a challenge! Admittedly I had not heard of CVID and had to look it up. I’m so glad that some of my projects have found their way into your home and your daughter’s hands. God bless!
Amanda, I love this project. I’d like to use it in a round up of crafts that can be made with kids for holiday gifts. The post would be published on TLC’s Parentables.com website. May I have your permission to use a photo and link back to you?
Brittany aka Pretty Handy Girl
Found your luminaries on pinterest and loved the idea. Picked up some vases and glasses at Goodwill yesterday and just finished two. So easy and so pretty! I’ll be using them for a centerpiece at a table I’m hosting at my church’s women’s banquet. Thanks for sharing your creative ideas!
So fun, thanks Laura!
I ran across a link on mtc forum for your lovely epsom salt jars, Amanda. Not sure if you remember me, you bought twig wreaths and a rag quilt from me way back. Think I was mainely twigs but could have been cat tail quilts in the beginning! Spent 10 years online selling those wreaths, got so busy I hardly could keep up. Lots of changes in my life! So glad I found you, will follow.
OMG Norma, I not only remember you but think of you often! I still have both rag quilts, in fact one of them is in the living room and the other at the foot of my bed! I loved the wreaths but alas don’t have mine anymore, they were so gorgeous. Do you still sell them?
wow just found this and think it awesome and SOOOO easy to make, going to try it SOOOOOON, thanks for sharing.
[...] to share a great DIY decoration idea for the holidays. Epson Salt Candles from Crafts by Amanda. http://craftsbyamanda.com/2010/12/epsom-salt-luminaries-some-winter.html.They are so pretty and only require the following [...]
[...] Источник Добавить в социальные закладки [...]
I made some of these a couple days ago, plan on making about 40 for party favors/centerpieces at a Thanksgiving dinner. I burned tea lights in them for one evening and they are all white. I did see all the comments left about that. Have you found any way around that? It didn’t take a few weeks, unfortunately. I’m now doubting whether these would be a good party favor idea…I’m thinking it must be the sealer that turns white?? Any suggestions you might have are appreciated. Thanks!
Hi Allison. Before I made these I had no idea that the salts would turn white. it doesn’t have anything to do with the sealers, it’s the actual chemical make up of the salt. I haven’t tried making any and not lighting a candle in them to see if they would still turn white. However, I did have a pillar candle that i rolled in the salt but i never lit it, and they seemed to keep their crystalization. I did a little research and found this : “Epsom salt crystals turn white when heated and dehydrated.” So in your case, since you have a little time, maybe try making one and using a battery operated LED tea light. I’m not sure how much heat those give off and that may be a good solution. i haven’t tried it myself however.
[...] Источник Поделиться в соц. сетях [...]
[...] This is a different take on using Epsom salt to repurpose Mason Jars. These definitely have the glitz and shine that go with the holidays but I could see using these for other events as well. To get the full tutorial complete with video, visit here: Epsom Salt Luminaries; Some Winter Beauty. [...]
[...] You can also tint the Epsom salts with food coloring for a very cool look. Check out the idea on this blog. [...]
[...] Источник [...]
Love this idea ! I use epsom salt as a filler in my vintage milk bottles it looks just like the milk is still in the bottle.
These are gorgeous. Can’t wait to make one/some. Wish the directions could easily be printed out.
This is a great idea! Do you have any other ideas of things that may look like snow? I’m planning on spray painting wine bottles white and then doing this (or something like this.) I want to make sure it looks fab!
Have you ever tried SnoTex paint? It’s awesome and looks like snow and dries nice and hard!
I recently found your luminaries on Pinterest and really loved them! Had to make some for Christmas gifts this year. Thanks for posting them! Here’s how mine went:
http://thebitchinspot.blogspot.com/2011/11/are-you-pinner.html
They look wonderful!
I’m currently in the process of making these into a pendant light fixture :) So pretty!
Nadine, that sounds so pretty! I have to warn you though, once the epsom salts are exposed to heat they will turn white. These are great for a wedding or party, but not so great for long time use. In fact, I just today soaked these jars and removed the salt to make new ones for the holidays :)
[...] with Epsom salt and adding a candle you can create beautiful holiday decor or a great gift! Click (here) to see how to create these beautiful [...]
[...] me some – shh! Don’t say it too loudly! – Free Time! So I am finally getting to this craft project. I am planning on bringing mine out one at a time for the 12 days of [...]
Can you clean off the mod podge when you’re finished with the salt on the jars? Acetone maybe?
You can soak them in warm water. The salt will dissolve the water will loosen the Mod podge. it’ll come right off! I actually just did this last week and my jars are all clean again :)
[...] craftsbyamanda.com via Kathy on [...]
[...] neighbour doing this when I was a child, it was one of the most beautiful trees I have ever seen) – Sparkly candle holders: cover jars in mod podge and roll in Epsom salts – makes a snowy candle [...]
I’ve seen other tutorials that used the Modpodge right on the candle and then rolled in Epsom salts, too.
Yep those are pretty, i made a pink one last year for another site :)
I was inspired by another Epsom salt craft and did a search for more. Of course, I ran across your luminaries. Love them!
I posted a collection of Epsom salt Christmas crafts and I hope it’s okay with you that I added a link (with credit) to this post: http://www.raisingknights.com/2011/12/8-diy-christmas-crafts-using-epsom.html
Happy holidays!
Thanks so much for the mention!
I don’t know if you’re still answering comments…but I found this tutorial on Pinterest and fell in love with it! We were going to make these tonight…until I realized I forgot to buy a paintbrush lol. I do have a question though…I bought the Mod Podge glossy finish and just saw you suggested the matte finish. Will the glossy make a difference or should I return for the matte finish? Even if you don’t answer…thank you so much for sharing this wonderful craft :)
Hi Torrie!
I mentioned the matte finish because that’s what I used, I am not positive it won’t make a different, but I THINK it should be fine. Merry Christmas!
Love these! This may be a stupid question, but would it be possible to pour candle wax in these to make a candle in the jar, or should you just stick to a tea light candle?
A tea light would be better, simply because the salts will eventually turn white from the heat of the candles that burn within them. By just using tea light, you can always soak the jars to remove the salt and adhesive and then reuse the jars again. :)
I tried to make these as a gift for Christmas. I really wanted it to work out but I had severe difficulty getting an even layer of the epsom salts around the jar. It clumped in some areas and was bald in others. I tried again and again, adding thicker layers of mod podge on each successive jar but none of them turned out anywhere near these.
I’m so sorry that happened Elizabeth. That’s the first time I’ve heard that. I’m wondering if maybe your epsom salts had too much food coloring in them making them too wet to stick maybe?
try instead of rolling it in the salt to just pick it up and sprinkle it where you need it! Worked foe me better that way!
These are really pretty and easy to make for gifts or something to add to christmas decorations. For mine, I added some white and blue glitter as well and it turned out really well!
I just made some of these and they turned out awesome! They are so easy! I did all different colors and then mixed them all together and did one that was almost tie dye looking! It’s so cool!
[...] luminaries are created using just mason jars and Epsom Salts, you can find the tutorial over on Crafts by Amanda. 8. Jingle bell stars, from an idea over on RE Found Objects, using wire twisted into a star shape [...]
[...] from all of the canning that happens around here. Crafts by Amanda came up with these adorable epson salt coated canning jars. These luminaries are the sweetest candle jars that I’ve seen in a long time. Perhaps the [...]
JUST got done making these!! So much fun, and they all turned out great!!
[...] Crafts by Amanda gives you step-by-step instructions to create a frosted luminary using Epsom Salts as well. Both of these options are easy, beautiful and inexpensive. [...]
[...] to make and you could use to decorate for just about any holiday, not just Christmas! For these Epsom Salt Luminaries you’ll [...]
These are awesome, I saw these on a Pinterest space of a friend of mine, using old jars or cool shaped jelly jars and getting your epsom salts for a buck at the dollar store makes them a bargain craft. They are so pretty!!! Thanks!!!
Thanks Lynette! Glad you like them :)
I just wanted to let you know that I followed your instructions to make these, and they came out awesome! I wrote about it on my blog, and linked to your page to give you credit for the project & instructions. If you want to see my results, you can here:
http://ashjav.blogspot.com/2011/12/epsom-salts-luminaries.html
Thanks again for the awesome idea!
Thanks so much Ashley, they look wonderful!
[...] 1. Epsom Salt Luminaries: Some Winter Beauty [...]
I adore this look. Was wondering if I could do these in brown somehow for an upcoming “groundhog” banquet where I need about 30 of them for the tables. I like the glitter idea too. So interesting…and I thought Epsom Salts was only for soaking my feet…lol
Just had my 1 year old’s snowman themed birthday party and I made these for the tables. I wanted them to stay white and I used his old glass baby food jars. They were super easy and turned out perfect, thanks for the great idea!
How fun! So glad they worked out for you!
thanks for sharing this! i have been looking for a way to get a temporary ‘frosted’ look for winter :)
You’re welcome, thanks for coming by!
I was trying to come up with a way to decorate mason jars as a wedding favor, I was just going to spray paint them with frost and tie my heart around them. But I absolutely love this! Will so be doing these for my wedding! =D Thank you!
Glad you like them, and congratulations!
Thank you for the tutorial. My daughter and I made these yesterday. I posted some pictures on my blog http://craftymomsshare.blogspot.com/2012/01/winter-candles.html if you would like to see.
They look great, so glad you guys had fun! :)
[...] it is sparkly!To make the pastel blue add 1 drop of food coloring to 1 cup of Epsom Salt (thanks to Crafts by Amanda for that tip!)To make the pastel pink (hey, Valentine’s Day is coming!) I used a smidgen of [...]
[...] Well here is another one we through would be amazing for wedding centerpieces. This project by Amanda uses blue and green food coloring for a more winter look to the jars but feel free to incorporate [...]
[...] Well here is another one we through would be amazing for wedding centerpieces. This project by Amanda uses blue and green food coloring for a more winter look to the jars but feel free to incorporate [...]
i just love the the look of the jars,im gonna try it soon thanks
These are great. I saw where someone used baby food jars. I work in an infant room and need small inexpensive gifts for my co-workers. These will work and I can recycle the baby food jars at the same time. Thank you
i think i will make these for my husbands and mine renewal of our vows in 2 years
cant wait
Thanks Amanda,
These jars are great. I am making 12 large mason jars for my nieces wedding. They will line the walk way for her and her new husband as they walk in the reception.
Sounds gorgeous!
HI,
that is wonderfull, I bought some salt and food coloring today and my first one is drying now..it looks georgeous already…thanks for this post…great great great :-)
I was wondering… What is mod podge?
Hi Sarah! Mod Podge is a brand name of a decoupage medium :)
Hi Amanda
These are so cute! I am really into decorating mason jars lately. I have three showers im using them for. I may use your idea for them if that is okay with you
Of course, hope you have fun with them!
There are several different types of Mod Podge, which is the best to use for the epsom salt luminaries?
I used the matte finish for these :)
I am new to crafting so I hope that this is not a stupid question but why the 3rd bowl of not colored salt? Do I need to roll the jars in both the colored and the plain to get the effect? Or is just another color option? Thanks!
Hi Elaine! My jars are green, blue and white. So I colored two of the bowls of salt and left one white :)
[...] Epsom Salt Luminaries from Crafts By Amanda [...]
This is such a good idea!!! I tried it out and it was so beautiful. I couldn’t stop staring at it!!!
[...] To show you that I am not crazy and that salt CAN actually be used as design inspiration, check out these Epsom Salt Luminaries, above. Photo and a how-to from Crafts by Amanda, HERE. [...]
I have not tried these yet but I am definately going to. I was thinking about taking 3 of the decorated jars in different sizes and connecting them together and maybe put some ribbon around them.
i would like to get the pictures and recipe for these thank you
Hi Wilma, the instructions are in the post :)
Gorgeous! I am going to do this, thanks for the instruction :)
I want to make these for my wedding, but my question is does the salt turn white in time or is from the heat? I am getting married in June 2012 and wanted to make them now so there all done, but I want them purple. I have a battery operated tealight to put in them so I don’t think there will be much heat, but if there going to turn white now because I need to make them early, I may as well just make them white in the first place…lol
Hi Misty! Yes, they do still turn white in time, even without heat. I believe it’s the contact with the glue. The glue is liquid and the moisture from the glue makes them turn white eventually. What I would suggest, since you have some time, is to make one right now. No need to color the salt, because even my white ones turned white and they had no food coloring. Mark on your calendar when you made it and wait and see how long it takes before it turns white. Then you’ll have a better feel for how early you can make them :)
Thanks!! Thats what I will try then. I know right before the wedding I will be slammmed with everything going on but maybe I can get some friends together and make a day of it :) I need 60….lol. I am also going to use baby food jars so that will make it a little faster.
That sounds like fun getting a bunch of friends together! Congratulations on your big day! :)
[...] Put about one cup of epsom salts into each bowl. Add ONE DROP of blue food coloring to one of the bowls and mix until evenly distributed. Epsom Salt Luminaries: Some Winter Beauty | Crafts by Amanda [...]
hi amanda, great idea, love them so much, just finished 12 of them for
easter. i used the green, blue, yellow, and very little red so it would
look pink. there drying now, spray in a couple of hours. i’m excited there
so cute, thanks for the idea. colleen
How fun Colleen, Happy Easter!
Love these! I’m in the process of spraying them with clear coat as we “speak”. I used scented epson salt and they smell wonderful. I got it at Dollar General for about $3. It comes in Eucalyptus and Lavender. Thanks so much for the idea! My husband was impressed:)
That’s awesome Katrina, so glad they worked out for you!
I think these are lovely, but I wonder about more color. I would like my color to be a bit brighter with more definition
Hi Linda! I did not experiment with deeper color. You could certainly try, though if it were me I would only try with one jar at first and see how it goes. Too much of the liquid food coloring could make the salt too moist.
These look great, can’t wait to try them
These are adorable! I was on the lookout for a DIY project to spice up my mother’s soap display at fairs, and came across this. We used the candle jars since neither of us wanted a noticeable lip on the jars. And liquid soap dye works great on the salt! You can use as much as you want, the color doesn’t fade and you can make deeper shades. You can buy it at Hobby Lobby for a couple bucks.
Thanks, this was a great project!!! :)
How perfect using the soap dye! You’ll have to let me know if the salts eventually turn white. Sure would be nice to find a way for that not to happen :)
Thanks for the great idea! I’m planning on doing these with my girl scouts. I know they will love it!
Awesome idea ! Thanks. Leaving a blank heart or swirls would be pretty too. Have you tried colored sprinkles ? This leaves so many areas yet to be discovered. Thank you again. glo
[...] Avec du sel d’Epson, un projet de CRAFTS BY AMANDA 14. Une autre création, avec de la dentelle, de CRAFTS BY AMANDA 15. suspendu par DIY [...]
i was wondering if you could use regular table salt instead of epsom salt?
I’m sure you can, but the crystals are much smaller, so the affect may be different.
Could you use normal Elmer’s glue instead of modpodge? We live out in the middle of no where and getting to Wal-mart to pick some up is an ordeal. lol I love the idea and this would be a great craft to do with my girl scout troop for Christmas.
Hi Jodi :) While I haven’t tried it with Elmer’s, I honestly don’t see any reason why this wouldn’t work. I would say go for it :)
Great!!! Thanks for the reply.
you r so creative thanks for sharing I will most certainly try as I always have the salt on hand for those sore achie muscles lol
Thanks Jacqelyn!
Love these so much we are doing tons of them for our Jan Wedding! Thanks!
[...] http://craftsbyamanda.com/2010/12/epsom-salt-luminaries-some-winter.html [...]
These would be really pretty in a spa like bathroom with the candles surrounding a full bathtub of bubbles.
Should the Mod Podge be Matt or Gloss?… and what color does the Epson Salt change to over time if you leave it clear/white in the first place?
I’m not sure that it really matters, but I used matte :) The epsom salt will turn white over time, it’ll lose its sheen and become a chalky, dry white.
Hi,
what is Mod Podge and what is the recipe for making Mod Podge.
Sorry silly Kiwi from New Zealand and unfamiliar with this slang :)
Cheers,
Tui*
Hi Tui :) Mod Podge is a decoupage medium. Look for decoupage in the store. You can always mix white glue and water to make a paintable consistency.
This is the most creative idea I have ever seen . I am a craft person and do things as they pop out of my head. I love this, its is great, you are getting my attention good.
Thanks so much Lena, I really appreciate that!!
[...] Kaynak Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:BeğenBe the first to like this. Temmuz 13, 2012 by mumsever | Tags: mum giy | Yorum yapın [...]
If these are sprayed with clear gloss spray, will that seal them and they will not deteriorate or fall off? I don’t like giving a gift that will prove temporary. Thanks
i can’t guarantee that will be the case. While these are fun as gifts, they are more temporary than permanent.
[...] with matte paint for a sophisticated effect, filled with water and floating candles, coated in colored Epsom salts for a textured snow look, or gloriously hand painted. Most of these upgrades are achieved with [...]
These are very pretty. I’m going to try them but I think i’ll add some tiny beads for a bit more color. Thank you for sharing your idea!
Pam
Can you only use mod podge?
Hi Kate. Mod Podge is what I used, but I’m sure you could use white craft glue thinned with a bit of water :)
[...] go HERE for instructions! Thanks [...]
[...] 1. DUDE DIY: ARROW MARQUEE LIGHT2. Epsom Salt Luminaries3. How to Make Glowing Photo [...]
I have a cape cod theme and there will be alot of this around my home. They are beautiful! Ty so much for sharing.Wanda
Oh those will look great with that decor! :)
how long do they last…it’s so pretty.
Hi Gloria. It’s been a while since I made these, but the shimmery look is short lived, a week, or two at best. The moisture in the salt will eventually evaporate, causing them to dry up and take on a chalk look. The good thing is that when that happens you can soak them in warm water which will dissolve the salt and you’ll be able to easily remove the glue and start over!
Once the salt loses it’s moisture the color fads and the salt turns to white powder. Another way, though more costly, you can use colored crystals found at craft stores. This is an awesome idea, fun and easy to do with children!
HI there. I tried making these today, and am now waiting for the mod podge to dry. I have noticed, that the Gloss sealer is highly flammable. I bought the same one you have used in the picture..is this ok to use as these are to be used as candles? Thank you
I burned candles in them quite a bit and never had a problem. I believe that the flammable issue is when you are spraying it near flame. I never had a problem.
After doing some research it looks like there are some non flammable gloss sealers. I must have bought the wrong one
Making these for my son’s winter wedding, making the epsom salts pink as that is the brides color for the wedding. making in some larger bowls and looking candles in pink water. so pretty
*floating
That will be gorgeous!
If you cover the salt jar in a sealer does this keep them from drying out? Besides paint can you cover them in a clear acrylic with out creating a fire danger? Thought I might use this idea for out Christmas gift the preschoolers give to thier parents.
Thanks.
No I’m afraid they eventually will still dry out
Amanda,
After you roll the jars in the white salts, do you coat with mod podge again right a way and then roll in the blue or green? So do you coat with mod podge 3 times?
Thanks so much!
Just follow the step by step instructions in the tutorial, there’s a printable version without all the pictures so it’s easier to read. You only put the Mod Podge on once, right before you roll them in salt. Adding Mod Podge over the top will kill the sparkle of the salts and create a blobby looking mess.
I just re-read your question. Each color is separate. So you don’t roll in white first and then another color. You paint the jar with Mod Podge, then roll in whatever color salt you want. that’s it :)
I would like to ask about “Mod Podge”. I didn’t see this in my area (Thailand) or if someone import it, it’s quite expensive. Is it possible to use another thing, such as Latex ???
Thank you in advance.
You could use any white glue mixed with a little water. 3 parts glue 1 part water.
If you don’t use food coloring and leave them white. Do you just put on the mod podge and roll them in the salts and then seal them? I would hate to make a gift for a friend and then it fade out. That would be embarrassing.
Thanks these are beautiful.
That’s correct, Mod Podge, roll in salt, let dry, seal. :) REMEMBER these are temporary as stated in the post, they will eventually turn white and lose their luster.
If you spray with 3 coats of clear gloss sealer, will the salts still dry up and flake off?
I couldn’t say for sure Julia, I didn’t use three coats. If you try it, I would love to hear your results!
I just made these for a wedding gift. They are beautiful! Thank you!
I made these. I put an electric tea light candle in each. Same effect as a wax tea light.
Thanks for sharing, love all the posts. Was wondering if you could do this with a wine bottle, drill a whole in the back to put L E D Christmas lights in. Didn’t know how to get this look.Will drill the whole then try the epson salt. I also heard you can buy lights that have a swich to turn on & off. This would make beautiful Christmas gifts!
I’d love to hear your results! I’ve never drilled through glass, though I know it can be done :)
Great idea. I will be saving jars for next christmas and my preschoolers can make them.
What is Modge Podge? Is just a brand of white glue that you use for wood craft etc or a special glue?
I live in Australia so would need to find the equivalent.
Cheers
Janette
Mod Podge is a decoupage medium. I found this http://au.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20100728003835AAtu0ZE which tells you to “Just go to Spotlight and ask there for it, or to any craft or scrapbooking shop near you.” If you can’t find it or live in a remote area, you could mix white craft glue (2 parts) with water (1 part). :)
Could these be used outside?? I would love to line my porch and sidewalk with them.
You could certainly use them outside, but NOT in inclement weather. So if the weather is clear it’s fine. However, rain could be a problem. Snow might be okay, but if they are sitting in wet snow that might cause them damage.
I am going to attempt to do this with clear glass ornaments for my Christmas tree this year. I was wondering if anyone had tried making the salt a little bit darker in color. My tree skirt is red, blue, and green. I’m worried that if I add red food colouring that my ornaments will end up being pink…
Hi Alesia. I have made a glass ornament, not with color, just white, BUT wanted to let you know that they will only last this season. The following year when I unpacked my ornaments, the epsom salt one was all chalky white and flaking off all over the place. However, the good news is that you can wash the salt and glue off and do them again, if that’s something that you want to do. Just keep in mind, this is a temporary decoration.
Found these on Pinterest and just tried them – they are great! I used white decorative sand from Michaels instead of salt. No word yet on if the color stays, but so far they look very similar!
Great idea using sand!
love this idea,they are so pretty.thank you for a great idea.i will be making them with my family.thanks again
[...] glass jars in colored Epsom salt then spray with clear gloss sealer.Get the tutorial from Crafts by Amanda. Epsom Salt Candle & OrnamentTo make these sparkly items just paint a plain white candle [...]
I have a whole box of glass vases in different shapes and sizes in my storage shed. You know the kind when you get with flowers delivered from the flower shop. I’m thinking some of them would work nicely with the Epsom Salt. Can’t wait to try it.
Trying these Epsom salt luminaries and it was a little tricky at first. Do u mean i should paint the jar with MP, then roll in salt, let dry, put another coat of MP, then roll in salts a second time, let dry then spray with sealer? Also MP was a bit expensive so i tried mixing Elmer’s (generic) glue with water. Is that ok or should i stick with the MP? Beautiful idea! Cant wait to find more!
One coat of Mod Podge and one roll in the salt. Adding Mod Podge on top of the salt will remove their sheen, it “muffles” it, for lack of a better explanation. And yes, a mixture of white glue and water will work fine :)
About the salt turning white issue….could you color the jar (with mod podge and food coloring on the inside, baked) and then use plain white epsom salts on the outside with the mod podge and sealer?
it won’t stop the salt from turning white. I haven’t experimented yet with additional coats of sealer, but a lot of people are asking so I may just do that this weekend and report back in a couple of weeks.
I just finished these and they look adorable! I use baby food jars instead since I have a ton that I’ve been saving. I printed out a template I made of Christmas trees and holly and pasted them onto the jars then applied modge podge and epsom salt. That turned out super cute and can’t wait to see them lit up with a candle! Thanks so much for the idea.
Great idea Ashley!
How do I get the recipes, without all of the30 pages+,- of comments from others, for some of the craft ideas.
Click the link that says “printable version”. You’ll see it right above the list of supplies:
Epsom Salt Luminaries
by Amanda Formaro
printable version
How do I register so I can become a part of Pinterest? Your registration form should be on the bottom of each page or at least on the home page.
Hi Beverly. This is not Pinterest :) If you need to register on Pinterest, please go to pinterest.com
I’m so making this for my mom for christmas. I’m seventeen and i am her mothers day present because technically im born on mothers day:) anyways yea im making this into a “hope” jar. sO IMMA DECORATE IT aND im making it so i can put pieces of paper with encouraging words and ecetera for her in. According to my dad she has been wanting this for a long time. This is the perfect way to decorate!
Much Thanks!
I made these this week with my 9 and 7 year old boys as gifts for their teachers. I didn’t use a mason jar, I found a set of tea cups and a pair of wine glasses, and I didn’t color the salt (short on time). It was very easy and really fast. Thanks for the idea.
[...] Check out these frosty looking Epsom Salt Luminaries! A very simple craft with beautiful results. A full tutorial for this project can be found on Crafts by Amanda. [...]
thanks for posting this again.I must have missed seeing the part about the sealer.I have made a couple of these and the salts just flake off without a sealer. Will try that step this time….Thanks for the re-post.
CHECK OUT THIS TWIST!! KAREN BURGESS OF ISLETON CALIFORNIA(FOR 30+YEARS) SAID TO MIX EPSOM SALTS WITH ……….BEER. BEAUTIFUL!!! HAS TO BE THIN ..SLASH….WATERY. HAVE FUN. I JUST DONT KNOW WHAT THE BEST THING IS TO WASH IT OFF. WILL POST PICTURES ON MY FACEBOOK…..Thegirl Nextdoortattoos
check it out though for sure. its beautiful when done correctly and pretty when done by me.
[...] candle holder. Bonus – the snowman won’t melt! Get the tutorial at Madigan Made. h/t Crafts by Amanda & Saucy Blog for inspiring [...]
[...] by Amanda has lovely epsom salt luminaries and a good article with tips on crafting with epsom [...]
[...] Crafts by Amanda did a tutorial on using epsom salts to make these lovely jars! Don’t they just scream icy wintry-ness??? [...]
[...] Epsom Salt Luminaries 4th of July Luminaries Bleached Burlap Vintage Luminaries Burlap & Doily Luminaries Halloween Luminaries Paper Bag Photo & Quote Luminaries – The Swell Life Party Paper Lantern – Bonbon Break [...]
Why do you say that if you are using them for an event you shouldn’t make them more than 1 week in advance?
Hi marie, as I mentioned in the post, the liquid from the salt will eventually evaporate, turning the crystals a chalky white.
Hi there!!!
I am preparing for service with Peace Corps and was looking online for some simple crafts to do for my family when I came across your instructions for these wonderful luminaries. I just did 4 small ones and a couple of mason jars in various colors. Boy will my family be surprised to get such a gift while I am away (that is why I am doing the crafty stuff now, before I depart, so they get a gift from me while I am away- whew! Did you understand that?). Anyhoooo…. thanks for such a great tutorial. I had fun and found it to be very easy to do.
Hi Becky and thanks for writing! I’m so glad you had a good time making these :) Hopefully you read the part in the post about the salts turning white and flaking off. This is not a permanent project and I hope you understood that from what was written in the post.