This a terrarium kids craft is a cheerful hands-on project for kids, classrooms, and family craft time. It uses the tutorial steps below as the practical guide while adding helpful planning notes so the project feels easier to prepare, follow, and finish. Gather the supplies first, give yourself a little workspace, and enjoy making something creative from simple materials.
Materials:
- Apothecary jar
- Pebbles (or aquarium rocks)
- Activated charcoal (or horticultural charcoal)
- Tropical potting soil
- Terrarium plants (fittonia, dwarf fern)
- Sphagnum moss
Equipment:
- Bowls
- Garden trowel
- Gardening tweezers (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Find what you need
- Gather your supplies and materials.
Step 2: Add the first layers
- Choose a vessel to build your terrarium. Here we’re using a large, round apothecary jar, but there are many styles that work.Keep reading below for examples and other options.
- First you’ll want to place a layer of pebbles or small rocks at the bottom of the container for drainage. This provides an area for excess water to pool.We also recommend putting a piece of mesh or landscaping fabric over the rocks as a barrier to prevent soil from washing down into the drainage layer.
- Next up is a layer of activated charcoal. Some people don’t think charcoal is necessary in terrariums, since the charcoal only works for a certain amount of time, but we do recommend it.Charcoal helps purify the water and acts as a filter, trapping odors and gasses. There’s no real downside to including it, and it offers another interesting looking layer for your terrarium.
- Then you’ll add the soil or substrate for your plants to grow in. We recommend using a tropical plants potting mix.Read below the tutorial for more information on what soil is best for terrariums.
Step 3: Add your plants
- Finally, you’ll want to add in your plants! We’ve added a pink fittonia, a dwarf maidenhair fern, and sphagnum moss.You can also add a couple larger rocks and driftwood for structure and decoration.
- Close the lid and your terrarium is complete!Keep reading below for way more details about what plants are good for terrariums, how often to water them, and more.
Helpful Tips
- Read through the full tutorial before starting.
- Prepare the listed supplies ahead of time so each step is easier to follow.
- Check the finished craft against the instructions before displaying or using it.
FAQs
Is this tutorial beginner friendly?
Yes. This a terrarium kids craft is written with simple steps and extra tips for beginners.
Can kids make this craft independently?
Older kids may be able to work independently, while younger kids should have help with any steps that require close attention or small pieces.
How long does the craft take?
Most versions take about 30 minutes, depending on the materials and the pace of the crafter.
Can I use different colors?
Yes. Changing the colors is one of the easiest ways to personalize the finished craft.
Final Thoughts
Once the a terrarium kids craft is finished, take a moment to check the details, compare the result with the tutorial, and display the project somewhere kids can enjoy their work.
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