DIY Glowing Specimen Jars

2 min read September 13, 2026 Michelle Stewart
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Have you ever wanted to make Glowing Specimen Jars for Halloween? My son actually did a science fair experiment a couple of years back where he researched the many ways to make water glow. Through his hypothesis he concluded that a regular highlighter works best and lasts longest. I'm excited to share his experiment with you - just in time for Halloween!

Project Time
10 to 20 min
Difficulty
Beginner
Step
1

Fill the Glass Cylinder Jar with Lid with water about halfway. You will need three jars for this project.

DIY Glowing Specimen Jars step 1
Step
2

Using the pliers, take off the plug at the end of the highlighter to remove the ink tube. Be sure to wear gloves since this step gets messy!

DIY Glowing Specimen Jars step 2
Step
3

Place the ink tube in the water and squeeze the ink out of the tube with your hands.

DIY Glowing Specimen Jars step 3
Step
4

Add more water and repeat with a second highlighter.

DIY Glowing Specimen Jars step 4 part 1
DIY Glowing Specimen Jars step 4 part 2
Step
5

Add Sticky Brains, Glow in the Dark Bouncing Eyeballs and Snakes to your glowing jars!

 

 

DIY Glowing Specimen Jars step 5 part 1
DIY Glowing Specimen Jars step 5 part 2
DIY Glowing Specimen Jars step 5 part 3
Step
6

Add the lids and display on your Mad Scientist Party table!

DIY Glowing Specimen Jars step 6
Step
7

Turn on your black light and watch them glow! Check out the entire Mad Scientist PartyincludingDIY Glowing Lab Rat Jarsand aToxic Halloween Punch recipe for even more creepy crawly fun!

DIY Glowing Specimen Jars step 7

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