How do you make big borax crystals?

Answer 1

1. Shape a pipe cleaner into a star. It's a good idea to leave one end long so you can hang the star in the crystal growing solution.

2. Prepare a saturated borax solution by dissolving as much borax as possible into boiling hot water. You'll know you have a saturated solution when borax powder starts to accumulate on the bottom of the container.

3. Stir in food coloring, if desired.

4. Hang the star in a clean container (such as a coffee mug or glass) and pour the borax crystal growing solution into the container so that the star is covered. Try to avoid touching the star to the sides or bottom of the container. Crystals will grow on the star even if it is touching the container (which was the case with the star in the photo), but it is much harder to remove the star without damaging it.

5. Allow the crystals to grow until are satisfied with them. This is usually anywhere from 2-10 hours. Remove the star and allow it to dry.

6. The star may be stored wrapped in tissue paper, kept away from humidity.