How to Make Chalk from Plaster of Paris
When money is short and sidewalk chalk runs out too fast, use this easy method to make lots of chalk for your budding artists!
[edit] Steps
- Mix the plaster of Paris and water in a bowl.
- Add coloring to make different colors of chalk.
- Pour into molds and let dry.
- Unmold when dry and let your artists have a blast decorating the sidewalks and driveways!
[edit] Tips
- Empty paper towel or toilet paper tubes make great molds! Just cover one end with tape and fill them up. Let dry and tear the tube away.
- Candy molds or cookie cutters may also be used to make more interesting shapes.
- Powdered tempera paint makes the most brilliant colors, but you can also use food coloring (liquid or powder) or non-toxic acrylic paints.
- You can make larger batches by just remembering to mix one part water to two parts plaster of Paris.
[edit] Things You'll Need
- 1 cup plaster of Paris
- 1/2 cup cold water
- powdered tempera paints or food coloring
- molds for the finished chalk such as toilet paper or paper towel tubes (empty)
- bowl and spoon to mix chalk
- measuring cup
