Peppermint Sugar Scrub Jars

If you’ve been looking for a winter craft that feels festive, sells beautifully at markets, and still stays wonderfully beginner-friendly, peppermint sugar scrub jars are truly a dream project. They’re the kind of DIY that looks high-end but is secretly simple perfect for anyone dipping their toes into handmade bath and body items.

What I love most about this peppermint sugar scrub recipe is how luxurious it feels without requiring complicated ingredients. A little coconut oil, fluffy white sugar, and the crisp, cheerful scent of peppermint essential oil come together to create a jar that feels like a cozy at-home spa moment. Whether you’re putting together holiday gift baskets, prepping teacher appreciation gifts, or just refreshing your own winter self-care routine, this one fits the bill.

If you’re a maker who sells at craft markets or online? Peppermint sugar scrub jars practically fly off tables in winter. Shoppers adore anything that feels seasonal and giftable, and this project hits both marks with ease.

Best of all, peppermint sugar scrub jars use inexpensive materials, require no advanced skills, and offer that gorgeous layered candy-cane look people can’t resist. Truly this is one of those perfect-for-beginners projects that still looks like it belongs in a boutique.

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Materials & Tools

Materials

1 cup white granulated sugar (affiliate) (fine texture recommended)
½ cup coconut oil, melted
3–5 drops peppermint essential oil
Red food coloring (gel preferred; optional)
8 oz mason jars or similar airtight jars
Baker’s twine or jute twine
Gift tags
Optional: mini candy cane charms or stickers

Tools

Mixing bowls (2 medium bowls if creating layered colors)
Measuring cups and spoons
Microwave-safe bowl for melting coconut oil
Spoon or silicone spatula
Small spoon for layering into jars
Paper towels for cleanup

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Base

In a medium bowl, combine the white sugar and melted coconut oil.
Stir slowly to fully hydrate the sugar without making it soupy. You’re aiming for a soft, fluffy “wet sand” texture.

Technique note: If the mixture feels too oily, add 1 tablespoon of sugar at a time until balanced.

Step 2: Add Peppermint

Add 3–5 drops of peppermint essential oil and mix well.
Start small peppermint can be surprisingly strong.

Variation idea: Blend in 1 drop of vanilla for a warm mint twist.

Step 3: Color Half the Batch

Transfer half the scrub mixture into a second bowl.
Add one tiny drop of red food coloring (or a toothpick dipped in gel color).
Mix until you achieve a soft pastel red or pink.

Technique note: Over-coloring can make the scrub look artificial; pale tones look much more elegant and “candy cane inspired.”

Step 4: Layer the Scrub

Begin spooning the white scrub into the bottom of your jar, gently pressing it down for clean lines.

Add a layer of the pink scrub next, alternating colors until you reach the top.

Tip: For crisp, Pinterest-worthy layers, use small spoonfuls and aim for even heights.

Optional variation: Swirl slightly with a skewer for a soft marbled effect.

Step 5: Decorate the Jar

Tie baker’s twine around the top of each jar and add a cute holiday gift tag.
For a festive touch, attach a tiny candy cane charm or place a holiday sticker on the lid. Encourage creativity this is where your personality shines.

Why This Craft Sells So Well

The layered colors look boutique-level and instantly giftable.
Peppermint is a top winter fragrance fresh, nostalgic, and universally loved.
It’s a consumable product shoppers return for again and again.
Costs are low, making margins strong for sellers.
Perfect for bundling in spa sets or holiday gift boxes.

Suggested Price Point

4 oz jar: $6–$8
8 oz jar: $10–$14
Spa gift set: $18–$25

Batching Tip

Mix one large base batch first, then divide and color half. This saves time, cuts cleanup in half, and makes your layers more consistent across multiple jars.

Packaging Idea

Tie twine around the lid and attach a small candy cane charm or peppermint-themed sticker. The tiny detail gives instant holiday personality and photographs beautifully for listings.

Fun Variations to Offer

Vanilla mint (soft cream + pink layers)
Cranberry mint (deeper berry pink tint)
Candy cane swirl with skin-safe glitter
Wintergreen mint duo-color
Peppermint mocha (brown + white layers with peppermint scent)

Pro Tip

Use the smallest amount possible of red color. Soft blush-toned layers always look more high-end and are much more forgiving in photos.

Wrapping Up

Peppermint sugar scrub jars are one of those rare DIY projects that manage to be simple, beautiful, and incredibly gift-friendly. Whether you’re making them for loved ones or prepping for your next market, they bring that perfect blend of handmade charm and festive luxury.

Have fun experimenting with colors, scents, and packaging your creativity is what makes each jar special. Happy crafting!

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