Buy any picture frame and paint it with your choice of color.

Glue the bottom part of the frame to the top frame so none of the sand can get out.

Add sand.

Smoothen the sand out until all spots are equal. I just tapped it on the sides so i wouldn't leave any finger marks on it.

Add decorations. i went with the theme or water, fire, earth and air. except i have to air to put in obviously, but there's always air/ wind around.

i dont have a dowel yet, but i used a toothpick instead to make the designs around the objects.