Christmas crafts

Polar bear snow globe

Create your own magical snow globe together as a fun family activity – this easy version repurposes a jam jar, and uses glitter for the ‘snow’.

waterproof figurine of you choice
(plastic and resin are good options)
1 clean jam jar (see tip)
white air-drying modelling clay
strong, clear glue
2-3 tsp glycerine
½-1 tsp biodegradable glitter
ribbon, to decorate (optional)

1 Before you start, check that your chosen figurine fits inside the jar and that the jar has a good seal (see tip).

2 Shape the clay into a circular puck – it should be just slightly smaller than the jar opening. (Check that the jar will fit snugly around the shape.) Leave the puck to dry following pack instructions, usually about 24 hrs. Or, baking on a baking tray lined with baking parchment on the lowest oven temperature for 2-3 hrs.

3 When the clay is dry (and cool), glue the figurine onto the puck, then glue the puck to the centre of the jar lid. Leave to dry.

4 Put the glycerine in the jar and slowly top up with water, leaving a small gap at the top. Add the glitter and stir to distribute.

5 Line the rim of the jar with a small amount of glue. Turn the lid upside-down, gently lowering the figurine into the water, and screw on the lid. Leave to dry fully, then turn the jar over to test for leaks.

6 If you like, tie a coloured ribbon around the base of the snow globe and glue into place to secure.

tips

For best results, choose a jar with a rubber seal (such as one used for jam making), as this is most likely to be watertight. You can use any household jar, but check for leaks before you start.

Normal tap water is fine to use, but if you have cloudy water, you may prefer to use filtered or shop-bought water for the clearest effect.

You’ll find glycerine in the baking aisle of larger supermarkets and craft shops, or you can buy it online. As an alternative, you can fill your snow globe with baby oil instead – it will have the same effect.

Christmas tree napkins

These napkins can also double-up as a festive place card holder.

green square paper or fabric napkin
gold card
mini pegs
glue
string, name tags and small tree decorations (optional)

1 Lay a green napkin out in front of you so it looks like a diamond. Fold the left and right corners into the middle at such an angle that it creates a point at the top.

2 Fold the bottom flap upwards to the middle to make a long triangle shape, like a Christmas tree. Turn over so the flat side is facing up.

3 Cut out some stars from the card and attach to th