Sometimes life just feels too loud, too fast, or too much. That’s where a calm jar comes in. Also called a glitter jar or sensory bottle, this simple little tool can be a lifesaver when your brain (or your kid’s brain!) needs a reset.
The idea is super simple: you shake the jar, watch the glitter swirl around, and let your mind settle as the sparkles slowly drift to the bottom. It’s kind of like pressing a mental “pause” button. I’ve made my own calm jars before, and I found the entire process very satisfying. So, it’s not just the destination you might enjoy; the road itself is a lot of fun!
Why People Love Glitter or Calm Jars
People of all ages can benefit from creating and enjoying a calm jar or glitter jar. Here are some examples why this is the case:
These jars are a visual anchor for big emotions—helping kids (and adults) see calm in action.
The slow movement of glitter naturally encourages deep breathing and focus.
They’re an affordable DIY project—no need to spend on pricey sensory tools. You can, in fact, create anything you imagine with whatever is at hand.
Each calm jar can be customized with favorite colors, themes, or even tiny charms.
How to Make Your Own DIY Calm Jar
When you shake a calm or glitter jar, the swirling glitter slowly settles—which acts as visual reminder to breathe and relax. It’s a great sensory aid for both kids and adults, and you can make one at home in just a few minutes. We’ll start with the basic “recipe”, and then explore some alternatives to personalize your jars.
Basic Recipe: What You’ll Need
A clear plastic or glass jar/bottle with a secure lid. You DON’T want the contents to spill out, so this is crucial! Pick your container carefully or make sure you have a good way to close it.
Warm water
Clear glue or glitter glue (the glue will help the glitter or other components inside the jar move slower!)
Glitter or sequins (optional: food coloring to use as a tint)
Super glue or hot glue (this time, to safely seal the lid)
An example: DIY Sensory Bottles | Discovery Bottles | Calm Down Jars by She’s Crafty and She Knows It. YouTube.
Steps to Create Your First Glitter Jar
1)
First, fill your jar about ¾ full with warm water and add a little squeeze of clear glue to it. As I mentioned above, this will slow down the glitter and help create that slow-motion satisfying movement.
2)
Next, stir in some glitter, sequins, or a drop of food coloring. You can add anything you like, but for a first project I suggest the latter two, which are easy to find and will always give excellent results.
3)
Top your jar with water, leaving a little space at the top. In other words, don’t fill it completely – otherwise the movement will be limited! This is because it’s the air bubble that moves around, swirling the contents of the calming jar.
4)
Lastly, seal the lid tightly with glue to prevent spills. The glue should cover the entire circumference of the jar. And that’s it! You can now shake gently and watch the glitter drift down like falling stars!
Adding Features to Your Calm Jar
If you’re wondering how you can improve on your basic calm jar, one way you can think of it is not just as a container, but as a reflection of how you want to feel.
For example, you can choose colors that echo your moods—shimmering blues for serenity, warm golds for hope, or iridescent purples that shift in the light and remind you of change. Some people add tiny charms or beads that move with the glitter, too, giving them something to watch for as everything settles.
Calm Jars With Texture and Light
You can also play with texture and light. Glow-in-the-dark glitter or UV-reactive pigments bring an unexpected glow that makes the jar feel alive at night, while holographic flakes scatter light in new directions and catch the eye in surprising ways.
Even the container can shift the mood—a tall bottle slows the descent of the glitter, a round jar feels like holding a crystal ball. Changing the shape changes the pace, and that pace becomes part of how your mind unwinds.
Calm Jars With Scent and Sound
There’s also space for scent and sound in a glitter jar. A drop of essential oil sealed inside won’t change the look of the jar, but the ritual of shaking it while inhaling the scent can strengthen the sense of calm.
Pairing the jar with a soft chime or a short mantra you whisper as the glitter drifts adds another layer, making it not just a visual anchor but a multisensory practice. Over time, the jar evolves into more than a simple craft—it becomes a companion to your quiet moments, customized to your rhythm, your colors, and the way you return to stillness.
Toolbox & Resources
Not sure where to start? Here are some videos for inspiration!