(Inside: Although this is a little more science-ey than I normally can manage, we figured out How to Make Crystal Shells and the kids are now beside themselves with glee.)
My kids are part of a weekly science program and I cherish that because, frankly, I can’t always get STEM into our days–it can be a whip.
But, we had to miss class a couple of weeks ago because one of the kiddos had the seasonal-ick. So, we did a little science at home and figured out How to Make Crystal Shells.
Now, I will note that I did almost all of the work (didn’t want the kids messing with hot water or Borax), but they were able to make observations and check out the process, so what did it matter who was holding the spoon?!
So–check out our results! How cool is that?!
And now the kids want to make crystal shells all the time…it’s the best.
What You Need to Make Crystal Shells
- assorted shells (if you don’t have found ones you can find them at dollar stores)
- Borax powder
- hot water
- glass baking dish
- spoon
- towel for drying
How to Make Crystal Shells
- Start with hot water. Typically tap water won’t get hot enough on its own and you will need to heat it via the microwave. Always use caution when using hot water. The hotter the water, the better the Borax powder will dissolve which is exactly what you want to happen.
- Pour the hot water in a glass baking dish. Add in 1/4 cup of Borax powder for every 2 cups of hot water you prepared. If you want colored crystals, this is when you’d add your food coloring.
- Stir to help the Borax dissolve. You want all of it to completely dissolve if possible.
- Place the sea shells into the container. Do not allow them to touch.
- Now place the dish in an area where it won’t be disturbed. Allow it to sit for 24 hours so the crystals have a chance to form.
- After 24 hours remove the shells and place them on a towel to dry out for an hour or two.
Your crystalized sea shells are now ready to be displayed!
If you’re digging this awesome tutorial for How to Make Crystal Shells, be sure to pin it, so you and the kids can come back to it time and again–because they’re going to want to and you’re going to want them to. LOL!