What is the snow in a snow globe made of?

Asked by: Amanda Smith

For health and safety reasons, white plastic has become more common in the construction of modern snow globes. The liquid has evolved from initially light oil to a mixture of water, antifreeze (ethylene glycol), and glycerol. An added benefit was that glycerol slowed the descent of the snow.

What is a snow globe filled with?

Many people think that snow globes are just filled with water. But some globes, especially ones from overseas, actually have a small amount of ethylene glycol (antifreeze) mixed in. This can help keep the water from freezing during shipping, but ethylene glycol can be very harmful if you swallow it.

What can you use for fake snow in snow globes?

Mix ¼ cup (60mL) each of table salt and talcum powder. Spray the surface with spray-on craft glue or dab on white glue where you want the “snow” to stick. Sprinkle the sparkly mixture on the wet glue and allow to dry. Turn the project upside down to remove excess “snow.”

What liquid is in old snow globes?

Older globes were made using water, but today almost all are manufactured with a synthetic liquid — glycol (i.e., antifreeze). If yours is a new one, leave it to a professional to take care of the globe.

What kind of glitter is used in snow globes?

Tinsel glitter

Tinsel glitter – After much experimenting I found that tinsel glitter, which has larger particles, worked best for making DIY snow globes as it looks most like snow when falling through the water.

Is the stuff inside snow globes toxic?

Most of us have snow globes in our homes, they are popular gifts to give especially during the holidays, but they are often found on shelves year round. What most people don’t realize is that snow globes are filled with a toxic chemical called ethylene glycol, which is the main ingredient in antifreeze.

How much antifreeze is in a snow globe?

2% antifreeze

Another source of antifreeze are the decorative “snow globes” glassware. The liquid in these displays contain 2% antifreeze and are very toxic. Both cats and dog are attracted to the smell and taste of ethylene glycol.

How do you make fake snow ingredients?

Start with 1/2 cup of conditioner, and use a fork to stir in about 3 cups of baking soda. This snow packs very well and is great for making snowmen! Shaving cream and cornstarch. Mix equal parts shaving cream (foam, not gel) and cornstarch for this recipe, which makes a dense, foamy snow that is very easy to mold.

How do you make fake dry snow?

Mix equal parts shaving cream (foam, not gel) and cornflour for this recipe, which makes a dense, foamy snow that is very easy to mould. Cornstarch and lotion. Mix together equal parts cornflour and lotion for this crumbly snow recipe. If you’re looking for a more powdery snow, add slightly less lotion than cornflour.

How do you make homemade snow?

Pour the whole 2 lb. box of baking soda into a plastic container with a lid. Add some shaving cream, and knead it into the baking soda. Keep adding more shaving cream, mixing, and repeating, until the mixture is the consistency of snow.

Can you make snow globes without glycerin?

No glycerin? No problem! There are plenty of ways you can substitute glycerin when bringing your homemade snow globes to life. Some glycerin alternatives include light corn syrup, mineral oil, baby oil, or a clear cooking oil.

Do you need glycerin for a snow globe?

Liquid glycerin increases the viscosity of water, allowing the glitter to sink more slowly. But glycerin can be hard to find in stores… especially during the busy holiday season. To make a snow globe without glycerin, simply use clear glue instead.

How do you thicken water in a snow globe?

Fill your mason jar up about 75% with distilled water. Then, add 2-3 drops of glycerin. This will help to thicken the water so the glitter floats slower – but don’t overdo it, or it’ll be too goopy!

How much glycerin is in a snow globe?

A good ratio is 1 cup of water, 3 teaspoons glycerin, and 3 teaspoons glitter. Glycerin can be substituted for olive oil, vegetable oil, or baby oil. Adding more oil will make the glitter fall slower. Tighten the lid on jar and glue shut.

How much baby oil do you need to make a snow globe?

Fill the jar three-quarters full with baby oil. Use unscented oil, as scented oils may yellow over time.