If you’ve ever wished you could bottle a spell, color-changing potions might just be the closest thing. These magical elixirs don’t just shimmer—they transform, adding an enchanting flair to any fantasy-inspired decor.
But first-what is a color-changing potion?
A color-changing potion starts as one color when settled, but when shaken, it creates a mesmerizing swirl effect—often transforming into an entirely different shade. As part of my fantasy decor small business, Goose Devil Collections, I make these magical potions, and I wanted to share the basics with you. Here are the 6 things you'll need to create your own color-changing potion.
1. Glass Bottles
A glass bottle is the first thing you need to create your magic potions. I usually source mine at Hobby Lobby, Michaels, or Amazon. If you want fancier ones, you can find places like GlassNow, which sell wholesale glass bottles (be aware that shipping is quite expensive).
One of the lessons I've learned the hard way is that the standard corks that come with potion bottles are very flawed. They don't seal well and cause leaking and/or evaporation. Because of this, I use rubber corks or bottles with screw top caps with all of my color-changing potions. If you want to keep the classic look with corks, you can find solid corks (different from agglomerated corks/standard corks) on Amazon or even places like Widgetco.
Tip: Some potion crafters coat their corks with UV resin to stop them from breaking down. If you are going to do this, just make sure you research UV resin and wear the proper PPE.
2. Liquid Base
You can use two main liquids for your liquid base: distilled water or isopropyl alcohol. Each has its pros and cons. Distilled water has a chance to grow mold if you aren't careful with your potion making, and alcohol can cause regular corks to become flammable. I prefer to use a 50/50 distilled water and alcohol mix.
Tip: Do not use regular tap water if you want your potion to last. Tap water can cause mold to grow in your potion or cause clumping.
3. Base Color
Your base color will be the color that shows when the potion is settled. You can color your base liquid with food coloring, ink, or dye. I use liquid food coloring because it's the easiest to mix into the liquid base and comes in a variety of colors.
4. Mica Powder
Mica powder is what makes the magic happen in a color-changing potion. The mica powder moves when you shake the potion, causing an ethereal swirl effect. Mica powder is relatively cheap, and you can get a variety on Amazon if you are just starting to get into potion crafting.
Better quality mica powder lasts longer, creates better effects, and you don't get issues like clumping in your potion. I use Meyspring and EyeCandy brands because they have the most unique and vibrant impact. EyeCandy in particular has mica powder with larger particles, like a 14K Nugget Gold, which gives your potion more sparkle and depth.
5. Wax
Adding wax and/or a wax seal to your potion gives it a vintage look. You will want to use sealing wax, which is thicker and provides a cleaner look than candle wax. In fact, I have a whole article about the different types of wax you can use for potion making: The Best Sealing Wax for Potion Bottles. In general, I use sealing wax beads and glue gun wax. I usually get both of these, along with my wax seals, from Amazon.
6. Potion Label
The last step to making your potion is adding a potion label. Canva is my go-to for creating labels. You can layer vintage script fonts over a parchment background, and add borders or filigree that match the vibe of your potion. I also use public domain images in my labels and you can find my favorite places to source these in my article: Finding Public Domain Images. When it comes to attaching your labels, you can either print them on sticker paper or use regular printer paper and adhere them with Mod Podge.
Potion making can seem like it’s all magic, but it’s actually pretty easy and super fun. Whether you're just getting started or looking to add flair to your fantasy decor, I hope this guide brings helps you in your potion crafting journey.
To find what I use for potion making, check out my Amazon Storefront or my Resources and Manufacturers List.
