Before you can determine what supplies you'll need for your terrarium, you should first decide if your terrarium will include live plants or animals. Non-living terrariums, sometimes called decorative terrariums, are simpler to make and do not require as many supplies, as you don't need to worry about water management. Living terrariums need a few more supplies, but are still quite easy! To make a decorative terrarium, the only supplies you'll need are some kind of container and the decorations you'd like to put in it. It’s really that easy! You can use any sort of container you'd like, from an empty wine or beer bottle to a bell jar to a purpose-built terrarium container. Really, any container will do! Some ideas for things to put in your non-living terrarium include pebbles, sand and rocks. You can create interesting visual effects by layering these items. Beads and gemstones from your local craft store are another idea for materials to use as a base layer. On top of this base you can add any decorations that you see fit, from figurines of bugs or small critters to fake plants. In addition to your local craft store, the local aquarium supply store will have many things to choose from. Don't constrain your imagination! There aren't any limitations when creating a decorative terrarium. Some people have even sewn plants from pieces of fabric or felt for an entirely custom look. The supplies you'll need for a terrarium with living plants and/or animals differ from those needed for a decorative terrarium. You must think about water management when you create a terrarium that will house plants and animals. It's always wise to have a base layer of non-absorbent material such as marbles, pebbles, or rocks so that extra water has a place to go. On top of the base layer goes some soil. Only use soil bought from a local garden supply store. Soil from the ground should only be used as a last resort, as it probably contains bugs and spores that can end up harming the habitat you are building. After you have your base layer and soil, you can add your plants. Grass and moss are the most popular for terrariums, but any plant that won't outgrow or overrun your container will suffice. If you aren't sure about what type of plant(s) to use, ask for help at your garden supply store. Most small plants will work, so pick something that tickles your fancy! You can add flair to your terrarium with decorations or rocks, just like a decorative terrarium. If your terrarium will be home to a living creature, you have to consider its needs. Some animals require an area filled with water, others a light or heat source. A few creatures like places to hide, so consider building a hideout for your friend. Be sure your container has an opening large enough to enable you to change out dirty water and feed your critter. Terrariums are both easy to make and lots of fun, so don’t worry! You won’t need lots of supplies to build your terrarium, so making one on a budget isn't a challenge at all.