What causes the tornado effect in the jar?

The swirling motion creates a vortex. As the liquid spins, the centrifugal force pushes it to the edges, forming a funnel shape—similar to a real tornado.

Can I use plastic jars instead of glass?

Yes, plastic jars are safer for younger children. Just ensure they are clear and round for proper vortex formation.

While not essential, vinegar helps improve the surface tension and swirling motion. It also helps preserve the mixture longer.

Why isn’t my tornado forming?

You might be spinning too slowly, using too much soap, or have bubbles obscuring the motion. Try a smooth, fast circular rotation and let the liquid settle before observing.

Tornado In A Jar With A Color Twist

Name: Tornado in a Jar with a Color Twist: A Magical DIY You’ll Want to Try
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1 clear glass jar with lid (16 oz or larger); ¾ cup water; ¼ cup clear dish soap; 1 tsp white vinegar; A few drops of food coloring (choose one or layer multiple!); 1 tsp glitter (optional, for magical sparkle ✨); 1 spoon or craft stick for stirring

Description

A fun, budget-friendly DIY that blends science, art, and a little sparkle! This Tornado in a Jar with a Color Twist is perfect for curious kids, science-lovers, or anyone looking for an engaging project with ingredients you already have at home. Learn about motion, vortex formation, and color mixing—all while creating your very own swirling mini storm in a jar. It only takes 5 minutes and a touch of creativity!

Ingredients

Scale

1 clear glass jar with lid (16 oz or larger)

¾ cup water

¼ cup clear dish soap

1 tsp white vinegar

A few drops of food coloring (choose one or layer multiple!)

1 tsp glitter (optional, for magical sparkle ✨)

1 spoon or craft stick for stirring

Instructions

Pour & Stir: Add water and dish soap to the jar. Gently stir without creating too many bubbles.
Add Color & Vinegar: Drop in food coloring of your choice, then add vinegar. Stir slowly and enjoy the color bloom.
Glitter Magic (Optional): Sprinkle in glitter for that extra dazzling effect.
Seal It Up: Tightly screw on the lid. For extra safety (especially with kids), you can glue the lid shut.
Swirl to Storm: Hold the jar by the lid and swirl it in a fast, circular motion. Place it down and watch a mini tornado take shape!
Repeat & Explore: Keep swirling to experiment with how fast or slow you spin. Each time is a new storm to observe!

Notes

This DIY is perfect for science lessons, rainy-day fun, or sensory play. Adult supervision is recommended for young kids, especially if using glitter or sealing with glue.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Kids Activity
Method: Jar Swirl