Cornstarch and Dish Soap Kinetic Sand

🧼 Cornstarch and Dish Soap Kinetic Sand Recipe

🧾 Ingredients:

• 1 cup play sand (clean, dry sand — craft or sandbox sand works well)

• 1/2 cup cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon dish soap (any kind, but mild and unscented is ideal for sensitive skin)

• 2–3 tablespoons water (adjust as needed)

• Optional: food coloring or liquid watercolor (if you want colored sand)

🥣 Tools:

• A mixing bowl

• A spoon or spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Airtight container (for storage)

🧪 Instructions:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients

• In your bowl, combine 1 cup of play sand with 1/2 cup of cornstarch.

• Stir thoroughly until the sand and cornstarch are fully combined.

• This creates the base for the kinetic texture.

2. Add Dish Soap

• Add 1 tablespoon of dish soap to the dry mixture.

• Stir well. The mixture will start to clump a little — that’s normal.

3. Add Water Slowly

• Add 2 tablespoons of water to the mixture, one tablespoon at a time, stirring after each.

• Mix until the sand starts to feel damp but moldable, almost like wet beach sand.

• If it feels too dry or crumbly, add up to 1 more tablespoon of water, a little at a time.

4. Optional: Add Color

• If you’re using food coloring, mix a few drops into the water before adding it, or add it to the dish soap first to distribute the color evenly.

• Be aware: food coloring can stain hands or surfaces, so use gloves or protect your work area.

5. Test and Adjust

• Squeeze a handful — it should hold its shape, then fall apart slowly when dropped.

• Too dry? Add a tiny bit more water or a dab more dish soap.

• Too wet? Add a spoonful more cornstarch or sand.

🧼 Clean-up and Storage:

• Store the kinetic sand in an airtight container or zip-top bag to keep it from drying out.

• If it becomes too dry over time, just add a drop or two of water and mix.

• Always wash hands after use, especially with dish soap in the mix.

✅ Tips:

• Texture not right? Start small with adjustments — a little water or cornstarch goes a long way.

• Want more stretch? Add a small dab of hand lotion or conditioner (optional, experimental).

• Safety: While it’s non-toxic, this kinetic sand is not edible. Supervise young kids during play.

Would you like a printable version of this recipe or a variation with other ingredients (like glue or shaving cream)?