On one of my many trips to the bookstore I saw a book entitled, "Pure Baking Soda for Baking, Cleaning and Deodorizing". It has over 100 household tips and hints using baking soda for using around the house and for personal use. One hundred?! Wow, that's a lot. I LOVE a cheap book, but even more, a cheap book with helpful and cheap solutions. Of course, I had to purchase it. Some of the tips and hints I had seen and put to use before, but I even noticed some fun things for kids in this book too! From homemade jewelry to magic beans, I think this kid is gonna love this find!
MAGIC BEANS:
Fill a vase with water, add food coloring and 1/4 cup vinegar. Then, add 3 teaspoons baking soda. Drop in buttons, rice, dry beans, or pasta. Watch them rise and fall like magic.
PLAY CLAY:
2 cups baking soda
1 cup cornstarch
1 1/4 cups water
food coloring (optional)
Mix baking soda and cornstarch in saucepan. Add water, stir to mix, then cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 10 to 15 minutes. Add food coloring to the water to make colored clay. Don't overcook. Clay should have the consistency of mashed potatoes. Remove to a plate, Cover with a damp cloth to cool.
Make it ahead of time and store for up to one week. Keep refrigerated in a plastic container. Bring to room temperature before using.
**Three ways to dry play clay art**
Air: Set on wire rack overnight
Oven: Preheat to 450 degrees. Turn off. Place finished objects on a cookie sheet. Leave in until it's cold.
Microwave: Place objects on a paper towel. bake at medium power for 30 seconds. Turn over. Bake another 30 seconds. Repeat until dry.
Some Ideas using Play Clay
1) Jewelry:
*shape beads for a necklace by rolling play clay into oval or round shapes. Push toothpick through to make holes for stringing. String on yard, thread, shoelaces, etc.
*To make earrings or brooch, shape with a flat back and glue onto backings.
2) Other Ideas:
*napkin rings, tree ornaments
Dry pieces can be painted or drawn on with a felt tip marker. Smooth rough or cracked edges with and emery board. Protect finished products with clear acrylic spray or nail polish.
