This year, Matt and I took on the challenge of making terrariums (terraria?) as Christmas gifts.

We've been collecting small- to medium-sized jars and bottles for months. Unfortunately, this cute syrup bottle is proving to be a poor environment for a terrarium. It's not doing well.


We regularly scour the local antique store for the tiniest of figurines. This kitten is only about an inch long.


To make a terrarium, you'll need:

gravel (fishbowl style)
gardening charcoal
potting soil
small plants (we used baby's tears, any moss-like plant would do)
spray paint (if you want to cover writing on the lid)

Layer 1-2 inches of rocks then 1-1 1/2 inches of charcoal, depending on how big the jar is. Fill to about halfway with potting soil, then tear off a chunk of baby's tears with roots attached. Lay plants roots-down on soil and water lightly. You should be able to keep your terrarium closed, but if things get a bit misty, then take off the lid for awhile. If things get dry add a little sprinkle of water.

These are some helpful sites that give more details than I did:
http://prettylittlethings.typepad.com/lori_marie/2008/08/terrarium-madness.html
http://www.terrariums.com/enclosedterrariums/
http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2009/03/craft_project_mason_jar_terrar.html
http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/la/how-to-plant-a-terrarium-in-a-jar-090199


These are some succulent plantings we made as well. Use a wide-mouthed jar and don't cover the top if you use cacti.

Here's a great tutorial on succulent terrariums:
http://mstetsondesign.blogspot.com/2008/06/terrarium.html

Good luck!