Ingredients
- 1 clean white or brown chicken eggshell half, about 2 inches long
- 1 cup table salt, fine grain
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon liquid food coloring (one color or a blend)
- 1 tablespoon white craft glue (optional, helps crystals grip the shell)
- 1 small glass cup or jar, at least 3 inches tall and 2 inches wide
- 1 small saucepan, 1 quart size
- 1 wooden craft stick or stainless steel spoon, 5 to 6 inches long
- 1 small measuring cup, 2-cup size
- 1 sheet wax paper, about 12 inches by 12 inches
- 1 sheet paper towel, about 11 inches by 11 inches
- 1 pair disposable nitrile or household gloves, medium size
- 1 pair safety glasses, adult size
- 1 shallow tray or plate, about 8 inches wide
- 1 small soft paintbrush, about 1/2 inch wide (optional, for brushing away loose crystals)
Instructions
- Cover your table with the shallow tray, wax paper, and paper towel before you begin.
- Choose an eggshell half with no long cracks. Rinse it under cool water, then place it opening-side up on the paper towel. Let it air-dry for at least 30 minutes.
- Put on your gloves and safety glasses.
- Place the saucepan on the stove and add 2 cups of water. Warm it over medium heat until it feels hot and begins to release a little steam, but do not bring it to a rolling boil.
- Add 1 cup of table salt gradually, stirring after each small addition with the wooden craft stick or spoon. Keep stirring until the salt dissolves, then add any remaining salt.
- Turn off the heat and let the solution cool for 5 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon of liquid food coloring and, if you want a stronger crystal grip, 1 tablespoon of white craft glue.
- Place the eggshell half inside the glass cup or jar with the opening facing up. Pour the warm solution slowly into the cup until it reaches about 1/2 inch below the shell rim.
- Use the end of the craft stick to nudge the shell so it sits steady.
- Move the cup to a level spot away from pets, children, and strong sunlight. Leave it uncovered for 24 to 48 hours.
- Check the shell after 24 hours without lifting it.
- When the shell looks dry and crusted, lift it slowly with gloved fingers, and let excess liquid drip for a minute.
- Set it opening-side up on a fresh sheet of paper towel for 30 minutes.
- Brush away only loose grains with the soft paintbrush. Allow the finished piece to dry uncovered for another 30 minutes before displaying it.
Notes
Hot water can burn skin, so an adult should handle the saucepan and pour the solution. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin, and protect your eyes.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
