Forget glitter; it’s all about Epsom salt these days when it comes to crafting. The best part about it? You probably already have some in your cupboards.
The first thing that might come to your mind when you think of Epsom salt is a soothing bath after a long day on your feet — but it’s so much more than that. When you see the DIY projects you can do with this household staple; your craft game will never be the same.
Here are 12 creative crafts and DIY projects using Epsom salt — perfect for home decor, gift ideas, and holiday decorations!
12. Christmas Mason jar votive candle holder
This super simple, super easy project from Mason Jar Crafts Love is beyond adorable. Create that candlelit ambiance during the holidays with these festive Mason jars featuring votive or tea candles sitting on Epsom salt “snow.” All you’ll need is some chalk paint, smooth Mason jars, and a couple of household supplies.
11. Spa in a cup
Here’s a great DIY gift idea for people who claim that they really aren’t crafty — literally anyone can pull this off. Grab a see-through cup of some sort (maybe save and wash some from Starbucks or head to the dollar store!), fill it with Epsom salt, add a bath poof sponge and a small bottle of essential oils — VOILA! The perfect, inexpensive, spa in a cup.
10. Soft squishy swirl playdough
Kids will go absolutely nuts over this homemade fun playdough. If you use all-natural food coloring (and omit the glitter) this is a completely all natural, chemical-free playdough recipe. Although, Epsom salt is not edible, so don’t let the kiddos get too curious. Let’s admit it — us parents will be having some fun with this one as well.
9. Ice crystal paintings
It really doesn’t get easier than this! Mix some Epsom salt in warm water then paint the solution on black construction paper; once it dries, the salt crystallizes creating an icy effect. Beautiful! This is a perfect craft project during those days off school for winter break.
8. Crystallized pine cones
These crystallized beauties make for a great centerpiece or coffee table decor when placed in a festive bowl. Pine cones covered in crystallized Epsom salt are a gorgeous and classy yet inexpensive and easy way to decorate for the season. Check out Sweet Paul’s advice on how to create your own here.
7. Epsom salt Easter eggs
Add another crafty tradition to Easter with these unique crystallized Epsom salt eggs. All you’ll need for this project is some plastic colored eggs, some glue, Epsom salt, and a paintbrush! Paint the egg with glue, roll it in Epsom salt, and let it dry — simple as that! The egg drying stands that come with egg dye kits work perfectly for this project as well.
6. Simple frosted glass
This wintry craft project requires only three ingredients: water, a little bit of dish soap, and, of course, Epsom salt. Mix 1/2 cup of warm water with 1/3 cup of Epsom salt; stir until the salt no longer dissolves, mix in a drop or two of liquid dish soap. Take a piece of terry cloth, dip it into the solution; wipe down a window or piece of glass then let dry. After a couple of hours — you’ll be left with a frosty, iced over look.
5. Winter frost paintings
This whimsical craft is a great one for preschoolers and younger kids. After painting some colors on a piece of paper, have your child squeeze some white school glue over the paint before it dries. Lightly rub the glue around, then sprinkle Epsom salt on the wet glue. Once it all dries, you’re left with a beautiful, magical piece of art!
4. Frosted centerpieces and vases
You don’t need to shop at expensive home decor stores to have a classy frosted glass centerpiece or vase. This short and straightforward technique is perfect for creating gorgeous pieces for weddings, holidays, or simply for year-round decoration. Add ribbons or crystals for extra details.
3. Geode bath bombs
These Epsom salt-based bath bombs are almost too cool to want to drop in the tub, but they make excellent and unique gifts. The Makeup Dummy has put together this quick video to show you how to create a gorgeous and one-of-a-kind homemade gift.
2. Lavender face and body scrub
Who doesn’t love a little pampering every now and again? Even better is when it’s inexpensive and smells heavenly! The Crunchy Chronicles gives us a dreamy homemade Epsom salt scrub recipe with lavender oil. The DIY scrub leaves your face and skin soft and smelling delightful.
1. Epsom salt luminaries
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
Luminaries are a great way to add a beautiful glow to your home; they are absolutely stunning outdoors on patios as well. They make beautiful pieces for weddings or holiday pieces — adding food coloring will allow you to custom tailor the colors to whatever event you’re celebrating.
featured image credit: AmenaPhenomena
