Make a time capsule
Make a personal time capsule by selecting small keepsakes, writing a dated letter, sealing them in a waterproof container, and choosing a safe storage spot.
Step-by-step guide to make a time capsule
How to Create a Time Capsule with Your Kids
Step 1
Gather all the Materials Needed and bring them to a clean workspace.
Step 2
Lay out your small keepsakes on the table so you can see every item.
Step 3
Choose which keepsakes you want to put inside your time capsule.
Step 4
Write a dated letter to your future self on the paper.
Step 5
Fold the letter neatly so it fits in the bag.
Step 6
Put the folded letter into the resealable plastic bag and seal the bag.
Step 7
Put any delicate keepsakes like photos or tickets into a resealable bag to protect them.
Step 8
Place the bagged letter and your chosen keepsakes into the waterproof container.
Step 9
Use the permanent marker to write today’s date and the year you want to open the capsule on the outside of the container.
Step 10
Close the container lid as tightly as it will go.
Step 11
Wrap tape around the seam of the lid for extra waterproofing if you want extra protection.
Step 12
Choose a safe dry storage spot indoors or decide to bury it outside with an adult’s help.
Step 13
Put your sealed time capsule into the chosen spot so it sits safely and will not be disturbed.
Step 14
Tell a grown-up where you stored it and the exact opening date so it can be remembered.
Step 15
Share your finished creation on DIY.org.
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can we use if we don't have a waterproof container or resealable plastic bags?
If you don't have a waterproof container, use a clean metal coffee can or a plastic food storage tub with a tight lid and put your folded dated letter and delicate keepsakes into resealable freezer bags or vacuum-sealed bags before placing them inside and wrapping the lid seam with duct tape.
My photos got damp or the lid won't seal tightly—what should I do?
If photos get damp or the lid won't seal, put each photo and the folded letter into individual resealable plastic bags, press out excess air and seal them, add a silica gel packet if available, then close the waterproof container fully and wrap the seam with heavy-duty tape.
How can I adapt this activity for younger kids or older kids?
For younger children, have an adult help gather keepsakes, let them draw or dictate a short dated letter and place items into resealable bags and the waterproof container, while older kids can add a labeled USB or extra keepsakes and use the permanent marker to write a precise opening year before sealing.
How can we make the time capsule more special or long-lasting?
To personalize and extend longevity, decorate the outside with permanent marker or waterproof stickers, include a printed photo and a list of favorites inside a resealable bag, add a desiccant pack, write the opening date clearly on the container, and tape the lid seam for extra waterproofing.
Watch videos on how to make a time capsule
How to make a time capsule | Museum at Home
3 Videos
How to make a time capsule | Museum at Home
Learn How to Make a Time Capsule
DIY Time Capsule for Kids
Facts about memory keeping for kids
✉️ Letters and drawings are some of the most common items in personal time capsules — they give future readers a peek into everyday life.
🎉 Communities often bury time capsules at big events (like fairs or anniversaries) to capture a snapshot of that moment in history.
💧 Keeping a time capsule waterproof and airtight dramatically slows damage from moisture and mold, so choose sealed containers when you can.
🕰️ The Crypt of Civilization, sealed in 1940, is scheduled to be opened in the year 8113 — that's over 6,000 years from now!
📦 Vacuum packing or adding silica gel packets can help keep paper and photos from yellowing and sticking together over decades.
How do I make a personal time capsule with my child?
What materials do I need to make a time capsule?
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What safety tips should I know when making a time capsule?
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