Ingredients
- Shells
- Borax
- Water
- A container
- A spoon
- A heat source
Instructions
- Prepare the hot water. Heat the water using your chosen heat source. An adult should handle the heat source and hot water, and keep the work area clear.
- Dissolve the borax. Pour the hot water into the container. Add borax and stir with the spoon until it has dissolved completely. Avoid leaving undissolved borax in the mixture.
- Add the shells. Carefully place the shells into the solution. Make sure they are positioned in the container without splashing the hot liquid.
- Leave the container undisturbed. Let the solution cool and sit for several hours or overnight. Avoid moving or stirring it during this time, as the instructions call for an undisturbed rest.
- Remove and observe. Once the resting period is over, remove the shells carefully. Look closely at the crystal formations and compare how they appear on the different shell surfaces.
- Finish safely. Keep the remaining solution and any borax residue away from children and pets. Follow the borax package directions and local guidance for handling or disposal. Wash hands after the activity and clean the work area.
Notes
An adult should manage the hot water and borax safely. Use a container large enough to hold the shells and solution. Keep borax in its original packaging until use and read its label before starting. The project does not specify exact quantities; consult the product guidance where available.
