Ever since we made lava lamp valentines, I have been racking my brain for a way to create a 3D version that could hold candy, gumballs, or other fun favors. It was easy to come up with a base using two plastic shot glasses, but the middle section was a struggle, until we found some mini cordial glasses that fit so perfectly with the shot cups! This project is relatively inexpensive for such a unique favor container. We’re ready to throw a groovy party with the kids this summer, and to send guests home with these adorable lava lamps that can be used as little storage containers when the gumballs are gone. This would be a fun craft for a rainy day too! Make your valentines in advance this year, and let friends or classmates know how much you “lava” them, or “lava” having them as a friend.

If you’re looking for some party ideas to coordinate with these lava lamps, try these paper plate flowers … they would make the perfect, groovy backdrop! This tin can flower toss would be a fun activity, or this twist on the good ol’ fashioned hot potato. Lava lamps and tie-dye are a perfect pair, so be sure to check out these kid-friendly options for your party. The garland would be amazing!

• Plastic shot glasses
• Mini cordial glasses
• Tacky glue
• Spray paint
• Wax paper
• Painter’s tape or Washi tape
• Gumballs, candy, or small favors

Step 1
You may want to wash your shot cups and mini cordial glasses with dish soap and water. Glue two plastic shot cups together at the base, using tacky glue. Allow to dry.

Step 2
Stuff the inside of one of the shot cups with wax paper. Following the directions on the can, spray paint the outside of the shot glasses. Allow to dry.

Step 3
About 1 1/8 inches from the base of a mini cordial glass, place a piece of painter’s tape or Washi tape all the way around, taping a piece of wax paper under it to cover the rest of the glass. Tuck any excess into the inside of the glass. Follow the directions on the can of spray paint once again, and spray the 1 1/8 inch base. Allow to dry, and then remove the tape and wax paper.

Step 4
Place some candy, gumballs, or small favors in the shot cup that was protected from paint by the wax paper, and you may place a bit more in the cordial glass. Place the end of the cordial glass in the end of the shot glass holding the favors, and shove it in as far as possible, without cracking the cups. They should stay together nicely, especially if they are not being transported. You may want to place a piece of decorative Washi tape where the glasses’ ends meet for guests to take home, but once the containers are in their permanent location, the tape may be removed.

Your lava lamps are ready to display! Happy crafting!