- Borax powder (sodium tetraborate)
- Water
- Jar or glass
- Pipe cleaners or string
Instructions:
1. Prepare the borax solution:
- In a heatproof jar or glass, mix 1 part borax powder to 2 parts water.
- For example, if you use 1 cup of borax powder, mix it with 2 cups of water.
- Stir the mixture until the borax powder is completely dissolved.
2. Create the crystals:
- Bend the pipe cleaners or string into your desired shapes, such as stars, snowflakes, or any other design.
- Make sure the shapes are stable and can stand upright in the borax solution.
- Hang the pipe cleaners or string from a pencil or stick placed across the top of the jar.
- Ensure that the shapes are suspended in the solution without touching the bottom.
3. Let the crystals grow:
- Set the jar or glass in a warm, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Allow the water to evaporate slowly, which will cause the borax crystals to form on the pipe cleaners or string.
- Depending on the temperature and humidity, it may take several days or even a week for the crystals to grow to their full size.
- The evaporation process can be sped up by placing the jar or glass near a heat source, but this may result in smaller crystals.
4. Enjoy your borax crystals:
- Once the crystals have grown to the desired size, carefully remove the pipe cleaners or string from the jar.
- Let the crystals dry completely before handling them.
- You can display your beautiful borax crystals in a decorative bowl or jar, or use them for educational purposes.