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Crystal Tree Village

Craft a colorful crystal tree village, perfect for family fun and educational activities, by growing stunning crystals on pipe cleaner trees.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Activity, Craft, Educational
Servings 4 trees

Ingredients
  

Materials

  • 1 bottle White craft glue Used for securing tree structures.
  • 1 cup Water Hot water for dissolving Borax.
  • 3 tablespoons Borax Available in the laundry aisle.
  • various pieces Pipe cleaners Use various colors for customization.
  • small cups Small cups or bowls For mixing the crystal solution.
  • 1 piece Cardboard base For stabilizing the tree structure.
  • optional Food coloring For adding color to the crystals.
  • 1 piece String For hanging the finished trees if desired.
  • 1 piece Scissors To cut pipe cleaners.

Instructions
 

Create Your Tree Structure

  • Bend pipe cleaners into tree branches and leaves. A basic tree has a trunk and several branching arms.
  • Attach the twisted tree structure to a cardboard base by poking a hole and securing it with a dab of glue.

Prepare the Crystal Solution

  • In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of Borax with 1 cup of hot water. Stir until the Borax is fully dissolved.
  • If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to create vibrant crystals.

Apply the Solution

  • Dip the crafted tree into the Borax solution, ensuring it is fully covered.
  • Place the coated tree upright in a location where it can sit undisturbed.

Wait for Crystals to Grow

  • Over the next few hours to overnight, you’ll see crystals starting to form.
  • Once no more crystals are forming, carefully remove the tree from the solution.

Notes

Experiment with multiple shades of food coloring for a rainbow effect. Use decorative plates or different shaped bases for a unique display. Create small trees as festive ornaments or small gifts.
Keyword Craft Activity, Crystal Trees, Family Fun, Kids Craft, Science Project