Updated since 1/1/2025.

Ice globe lanterns are a breathtaking addition to any winter scene. These globes, crafted from pure, frozen water, exude a captivating glow when a candle or LED light is placed inside. Their translucent beauty captures and refracts light in mesmerizing patterns, making them perfect for creating a magical winter ambiance. Each ice globe is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, offering a serene and ethereal glow. Made from water and naturally returning to the environment, these lanterns are a sustainable decoration choice. Perfect for both daytime and nighttime displays, adding a touch of magic regardless of the time of day.

Ideas for Outdoor Spaces

• Garden Pathways: Line walkways or driveways with ice globes to guide guests with a charming glow.
• Patios and Decks: Place clusters of ice globes on outdoor tables or around seating areas for an enchanting evening atmosphere.
• Snowy Settings: Arrange ice globes in the snow for a fairy-tale-like garden scene that transforms your yard or garden into a winter wonderland.

Materials Needed

• Wintercraft Globe Ice Lantern Kit (includes balloons, freezing base, easy-close clips, and candles)
• Cold water
• Freezer (optional, if you’re making it indoors)
• Bucket or large cooking pot (for filling balloons)
• Insulation disk (included in the kit)

Steps

1. Prepare the Balloon: Place the open end of the balloon around the faucet head and fill it with cold water until it reaches the desired size (about the size of a soccer ball). Release any excess air from the balloon by holding the opening between your fingers until water starts to bubble out, then twist and clip the balloon closed with the easy-close clip.
2. Set Up the Freezing Base: Place the freezing base on a level surface, such as a shelf in your freezer or outside on the ground. If you’re using a freezer, place an overturned bucket or large pot in the sink to support the balloon while filling it with water.
3. Freeze the Balloon: Place the filled balloon in the freezing base with the clipped side up. If the balloon is unstable, add a bit of water to help it sit securely. If you’re freezing it indoors, place the freezing base with the balloon inside the freezer.
4. Freezing Time: Allow the balloon to freeze completely. This can take several hours, depending on the temperature. If you’re freezing it outdoors, make sure it’s in a cold enough environment to freeze solid.
5. Remove the Ice Globe: Once the balloon is frozen solid, carefully remove it from the freezing base. If you’re using a freezer, let the ice globe sit at room temperature for a few minutes to loosen it from the base.
6. Create the Opening: Use a drill with a bit to create a hole in the ice globe for the candle or use a candled to melt one (instructions in the kit). Be careful to make the hole large enough for the candle but not too large to compromise the structure of the globe.
7. Add the Candle: Place a candle inside the ice globe. You can use a glass votive to help keep the candle upright and prevent it from sinking into the ice.
8. Display: Place your ice globe in your desired location. You can use LED lights instead of candles for a safer indoor option.

Decorative Options

• Natural Elements: Embed evergreen sprigs, holly berries, or pinecones in the ice for a rustic, nature-inspired look.
• Festive Touches: Add food coloring to the water for vibrant, tinted ice globes or sprinkle glitter in the water before freezing for a sparkling effect.
• Personalized Designs: Use cookie cutters to create imprints or add small toys and trinkets before freezing for a whimsical touch.

These ice globes are sure to captivate and delight, creating unforgettable winter memories for all who see them.