Ingredients
- Baking soda
- Food coloring
- Vinegar
- Paper or canvas
- Separate small containers for mixing colors
- A paintbrush
- A tray, washable work surface, or other area that can catch drips
Instructions
- Set up the workspace. Place the paper or canvas on a tray or protected surface. Set out separate small containers for your colors, a brush, baking soda, food coloring, and vinegar.
- Mix the colored baking soda. Add baking soda to each container, then mix in food coloring to make separate colors. Start with a modest amount of coloring and adjust until you like the brightness.
- Paint a design. Use a brush to apply the colored baking soda mixture to the paper or canvas. Try lines, dots, simple shapes, or broad patches of color.
- Add the vinegar. Pour or drip vinegar over the painted areas to start the fizzing reaction. Add it gradually so children can see how the bubbles form.
- Watch the colors bubble. Observe the fizzing as it spreads across the design. Let children enjoy the reaction without stirring or rubbing the picture.
- Let the artwork dry. Leave the piece in a safe place until it is dry. Avoid stacking or moving the artwork while it is wet.
- Enjoy the finished picture and clean up. Once the artwork is dry, display it or keep it as a record of the experiment. Wipe the work surface, wash the containers and brush, and clean hands.
Notes
Food coloring can stain skin, clothing, and some work surfaces. Dress children in clothes that can get messy, and protect the table before you begin. Adult supervision is recommended.
