Do your kids love craft projects and science experiments? If yes, then they will love this DIY eggshell geodes project. This crystal-growing DIY project is part craft and part science, which will surely fascinate your little ones.
In a natural setup, it takes thousands of years for crystal-filled geodes to form through sedimentation. However, with this DIY project you all can easily grow your own sparkling eggshell geode in a day at home. We bet this DIY eggshell geodes project will become your kid’s favorite in no time.
Materials
- ¾ cup alum powder (plus 2 tablespoons)
- 1 egg
- 2 cups hot water
- School glue
- Paintbrush
- Food coloring
- 2 glass measuring cups
- Small glasses or pint canning jars
Procedure
- To make this DIY eggshell geodes for kids, crack an egg in half crosswise (like you usually do). However, if you want to make it look more natural, crack the shell in half lengthwise by first making a hole and blowing out the egg, then cutting the shell lengthwise with the help of scissors.
- After cutting the eggshell, wash and wipe it dry with a paper towel.
- Drip some glue into the shell and spread it all over the inside with a paintbrush.
- Generously sprinkle the alum powder on the wet glue (from a bowl for easy application). If you want the crystals to grow on the edges of the shells or slightly on the outside, glue alum powder in those areas as well.
- Turn the eggshell over and gently tap out any excess.
- Place them on a paper towel to dry overnight. Don’t skip this step, as the alum needs to be completely dry to provide a surface for the crystals to adhere.
- Next day, bring two cups of water to a boil and pour it into a large measuring cup.
- Add ¾ cup of alum powder to the water and mix the solution. You may have some sediment at the bottom of the cup.
- Divide the mixture into two small glasses or half-pint canning jars.
- Add 20 to 30 drops of food coloring to each jar. Mix until well combined and let the mixtures cool for 30 minutes.
- Finally, place shell both halves into each jar with alum-side up.
- Gently push the eggshells to the bottom of the solution with the help of a spoon.
- Allow the eggshell to sit in the solution undisturbed for 12 to 15 hours.
- After 12 to 15 hours, your crystals should be ready! Carefully remove the DIY eggshell geodes and place them on a paper towel to dry and finish the geode-creation process. If you want bigger crystals, let the shells sit in the solution longer.
Voila, your DIY eggshell geodes are ready! Let your kids show their captivating creations to their friends, and let them make some more in different colors if they want. They are fascinating to look at, even for the parents. Also, ensure your kids wear gloves while handling alum to avoid rashes or itching. Don’t forget to lay down a thick towel to soak up any spills while working on these DIY eggshell geodes.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab the supplies and sit with your kids to make these easy DIY eggshell geodes. Don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comment section below.
