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How to Make a DIY Bouncy Ball: A Fun Project for All Ages

Bouncy balls are not only a classic toy but also a source of endless fun. They can provide hours of entertainment and even serve as a stress-relief tool. If you’re looking for a fun DIY project, why not try making your own bouncy ball? This simple tutorial will guide you through the process using readily available materials, perfect for a rainy afternoon or a weekend craft session.

What You Will Need

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

• Warm water (about 60ml or 1/4 cup)
• Boric acid (available at pharmacies or online, often sold as a powder)
• White school glue (PVA glue works best)
• Cornstarch (can be found in the baking aisle)
• Food colouring (optional, for added fun!)
• A small bowl (for mixing)
• A spoon (for stirring)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

In your small bowl, combine approximately 60ml (1/4 cup) of white school glue with 60ml (1/4 cup) of warm water. The warmth of the water helps to dissolve the glue more easily.

Step 2: Add Colour

If you’d like to add some colour to your bouncy ball, drop in a few drops of your chosen food colouring. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the colour is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Mix Boric Acid

In a separate container, dissolve around a teaspoon of boric acid in around 30ml (2 tablespoons) of warm water. Once dissolved, you can slowly add this solution to your glue mixture while stirring continuously.

Step 4: Incorporate Cornstarch

Now that you have combined the glue and boric acid, add approximately 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the mixture. This will help give the bouncy ball its structure and elasticity. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Form the Ball

As you mix, you’ll notice the mixture starting to thicken. Once it reaches a putty-like consistency, remove it from the bowl and begin to knead it with your hands. You may want to use disposable gloves if you don’t want to get your hands sticky.

Keep kneading until it becomes smooth and can be easily shaped into a ball. The more you knead, the better the texture will be.

Step 6: Shape Your Ball

Once you’ve achieved the right consistency, roll the mixture into a round ball shape. If your ball feels too sticky, you can sprinkle a little cornstarch on your hands to help manage the stickiness.

Step 7: Allow to Set

After shaping your ball, leave it out to harden for at least 24 hours. Depending on your humidity and temperature, the time might vary, so check if it feels firm to the touch.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Once your DIY bouncy ball has set completely, it’s time to put it to the test! Bounce it on different surfaces and watch it perform. Experiment with different colours and sizes for even more fun!

Tips and Troubleshooting

• Adjust the Consistency: If your mixture is too runny, add a bit more cornstarch. If it’s too thick, a splash more warm water should help.
• Storing Your Ball: Once you’re done playing, store your bouncy ball in a cool, dry place to keep it from becoming too moist or losing its bounce.
• Experiment: Don’t hesitate to try different glues, ratios, or even add glitter for some sparkle!

Conclusion

Making a bouncy ball at home is not just straightforward, but also an excellent way to engage in a hands-on activity. This DIY project is perfect for children and adults alike, providing a great opportunity to learn about basic chemistry while having fun. So gather your materials, invite a friend or two, and bounce your way into a world of creativity!

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