To throw a proper Harry Potter party, you’ve got to have the decor. You might think this will cost you a small fortune, but if you do it right you can throw a cheap yet amazing Harry Potter party for any occasion. Halloween, Christmas, Birthdays, Graduations, because it’s a day that ends in “y”, whatever reason you want. I worked as a Teen Librarian for many years and threw five different successful Harry Potter parties for the public. I would love to share my knowledge with you!
*This will be an ongoing series of posts with detailed descriptions of crafts, activities, tips and suggestions.*
Today I’m going to start out with an oldie but goodie: DIY floating candles like those you see in the Great Hall at Hogwarts. Standard disclaimer that this is not an original idea of mine, but I like to throw my own twist on things.
This one’s a lot of fun for almost all ages because it’s easy, cheap, and environmentally friendly. First, collect your materials. Save up toilet paper rolls and paper towel rolls. I personally like the way the paper towel rolls look better. Ask around if anyone you know would be willing to save theirs for you as well. Once you have a good sized stash, collect the rest of your materials. You will need:
- White or off white acrylic paint
- toilet paper/paper towel rolls
- 1 paintbrush
- 1 hot glue gun
- hot glue gun sticks
- plastic tea lights (I got mine from the Dollar Tree)
- a hole punch or other object to insert holes
- string, fishing wire, or other invisible hanging materials
First, paint your rolls white or off white. Let dry.
Second, add drips of hot glue to mimic candles wax that’s dripped. Let dry.
Dip “candle” in white paint or add paint to the “candle” top and stand upright, letting paint drip down to dry.
Puncture holes in top of candle. I used a push pin but almost anything will work. Measure so that the wire/stringing material will fit right under the tea light.
String in fishing wire or other hanging material.
Cover bottom of candle with white paper or cardboard you’ve painted white. Add tea light on top of fishing wire. Hang.
If you’re feeling especially creative, you can paint or print out a starry sky to mimic the Great Hall. Turn on lights and amaze your guests. Don’t let a fear of imperfection hold you back. I love crafts but I’m not particularly good at them and I still had a blast! Let me know if you’ve tried this craft in the comments.
*Please note I did link to affiliate products through Amazon, though I *only* linked to items I have personally purchased. 