Almost everyone remembers Silly Putty from their youth, and who could forget? The distinctive egg-shaped container with squishy pink goo inside was a staple for most kids, and became a stress reliever for adults, as well. As the years went by, however, Silly Putty transformed into different colors and smells, but still remained just as squishy. For people that want to relive that silliness, or pass it on to their children, learning how to make silly putty is for you, no matter how young or old.
Since the Silly Putty brand name was patented after its creation, the actual ingredients used have been kept top secret. However, Putty is a pliable polymer that can be simulated in its invention, and with ingredients that most people keep on hand, anyway. There are a few different ways the putty can be created, and with some time and patience, everyone can make the fun last all day long.
Homemade Silly Putty
The first way to make homemade silly putty is with a few simple ingredients, white glue and liquid starch. If these items aren’t already in the cupboard, they can be purchased at a local grocery store. With these ingredients, there is no set amount that can be made, the measurements are flexbible as long as there is always two parts glue and on part liquid starch. This ratio can be used to make a little putty, or a lot, depending on the need. The glue should be placed into a container that can be washed easily, or thrown away when the project is complete; once the two parts of white glue are ready, the starch needs to be added to the glue at a slow pace. Once the starch has been completed added to the glue and mixed, if it’s too sticky, more starch can be added to make it non-sticky and pliable. Although the putty won’t be pretty to look at, it will be functionable, and food coloring or drops of scented oil can be added for a special twist. After the putty has been played with, it needs to be covered and stored in the refrigerator for future use.
Borax Silly Putty
How to Make Silly Putty
Another form is Borax Silly Putty. It is made it with white glue and sodium borate – the brand name Borax. The ratio is a little bit different because of the ingredients, but the formula stays the same – it doesn’t matter how much or little is used, as long as the ratios equal out. This time, fifty-five percent glue needs to be used, as well as sixteen-percent sodium borate, and twenty-nine percent water – in other words, four parts white glue in water, and one part Borax, in water. All parts need to be mixed together to form a non-sticky putty compound, and after that has been formed, food coloring and additives like glitter can then be mixed with the putty as desired. As always, refrigerate the putty in an airtight container when not in use to prevent hardening.
Making Silly Putty
These two time-tested putty recipes are a simple ways of making Silly Putty sure to be loved by children for generations, and is great for kids to make, too. The ingredients are simple and inexpensive, and can provide hours or non-stop entertainment. When the putty hardens, or collects debris, simply throw it away and mix up another batch. It’s a fun party idea, as well, and can be used for party favors or arts and crafts projects for a school or daycare center. The only ingredients that are missing from the ones listed are imagination, and the ability to use Silly Putty for a hundred different, creative ideas.
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