How to Make A Smelly Jelly

Smelly jelly, also known as fragrance gel or gelled air freshener, makes a decorative, attractive gift or display item. Smelly jelly lasts a long time because you can re-scent the mixture when the fragrance fades. Candle hobbyists and incense makers may enjoy branching out and experimenting with smelly jelly. Even children can pitch in to help make these items.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Distilled water
• Clear glass container or jar
• Water-based dye
• Polymer gel crystals
• Water-based fragrance
• Craft stick
• Decorative lace or mesh (optional)
• Open jar lid (optional)

1. Measure 1 cup of distilled water into the clear glass container.

2. Place one to four drops of food coloring or other water-based dye in the water. Swirl gently to distribute the color.

3. Pour 1 teaspoon of polymer gel crystals into the water.

4. Add 2 to 3 teaspoons of water-based fragrance to the water and gel mixture. Stir with a craft stick to combine.

5. Set the jar aside for about one hour. The liquid in the container will be soaked up by the water crystals, and the gel will form.

6. Display your craft. For an old-fashioned country look, place a square of lace over the top of the jar and screw an open jar top or jar collar over it.

Tips & Warnings

• To re-scent your smelly jelly after its scent has faded, simply stir in a few more drops of fragrance.

• Add a few drops of water if the gel begins to dry out.

• Do not let small children handle smelly jelly. The gel is not edible and the dyes and fragrances may be harmful if swallowed.

References

• Really Jazzy Jars; Marie Browning
• Water-Gel Crystals: Fragrance Jelly Jars