Deco Beads DB-T08 Turquoise 8-Ounce Jar

Used these in centerpieces, with submersible LED lights, and they were a hit! These beads start out tiny, like caviar, then grow to marble size in a matter of hours. They retain the water for days (yay - this means you can make your items in advance). Simply mix the beads with water (1 tbsp of beads to 2 quarts of water), and let sit (I suggest overnight, stir a few times). When they are engorged with water they are a bit odd -- gel-like, wet, but not sticky. The color is within them, so they do not bleed or stain, even if they drop onto a white tablecloth. They easily keep cut flowers hydrated. Make sure to drain excess water when filling your vessels so that you get the deepest colors and coverage for immersed lighting. A little goes a LONG way -- I ordered far more than I will ever need.

I saw these on Pinterest. I used them for my son's water-themed birthday party. Filled a large plastic container with these and the recommended amount of distilled water the morning of the 3pm party. It was as much fun to watch them grow as it was to play with the slippery little beads.