Ingredients
- 12 white chenille pipe cleaners, each 12 inches long
- 6 cups very hot water (heated until steaming, but not boiling)
- 3 cups baking soda
- 3 clear glass jars, each 16 fluid ounces
- 3 wooden skewers, each 10 to 12 inches long
- 3 pieces of white cotton thread, each 12 inches long
- 1 pair of scissors
- 1 wooden spoon or silicone spatula, about 10 inches long
- 1 liquid measuring cup, 2 cup size or larger
- 1 shallow tray or rimmed baking sheet, about 12 by 16 inches
- 1 cotton towel or reusable cloth, about 18 by 24 inches
- 1 pair of household rubber or nitrile gloves (optional)
- 1 sheet of wax paper, about 12 by 16 inches
Instructions
- Cover your table with the cotton towel, then place the shallow tray on top.
- Choose a warm, steady place away from pets and busy traffic.
- Make the first shape by folding one pipe cleaner in half and twisting the center once. Bend the six resulting arms into a simple six-point star, keeping each arm about 2 inches long.
- Repeat with the remaining 11 pipe cleaners to make two more stars, keeping them spaced evenly.
- Trim three pieces of cotton thread to 12 inches. Tie one thread around the center of each star with two firm knots.
- Place one skewer across each jar opening and tie a star to the center. Adjust the thread so the shape hangs about 1 inch above the bottom.
- Heat 6 cups of water until it steams. Divide the hot water evenly among the three jars.
- Add 1 cup of baking soda to each jar and stir slowly until most of the powder dissolves.
- Lower each pipe cleaner shape into its jar without letting it rest on the bottom.
- Check the jars after 15 minutes. If there is undissolved baking soda, stir and let it settle before returning the shape.
- Let the jars sit undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours.
- Lift each shape carefully by its thread and place it on the wax paper to dry for another 2 to 4 hours.
- Once dry, trim the hanging thread if desired and let the pieces finish drying overnight.
Notes
Very hot water can burn skin, so pour carefully. Handle any spills promptly, as the solution can create a slick surface.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
