Props –Things For Adults To Make

IN-EDIBLE RECIPE

The following recipe is inedible. It is great to use for demonstrating different qualities of animals or are just fun as a gathering activity for programs. The ingredients listed in each recipe are non-toxic but not to be eaten.

Sidewalk Chalk

1 1/2 cup plaster of paris

½ Cup of Water

2 to 3 tablespoons washable tempera paint (powdered or liquid tempera work equally well)

Large plastic mixing containers (we used recycled margarine tubs)

Toilet tissue tubes (or gift wrap tubes) cut in short sections

Duct tape or masking tape

Prepare your chalk molds by covering one end of each tissue tube with duct tape or masking tape.  Set aside until ready to pour mixture into tubes. Pour water into your mixing container. Sprinkle the plaster of Paris powder into the water a little at a time (about 1 1/2 cups).  Stir thoroughly, until the mixture is as thick as pudding. Add tempera paint to the plaster mixture and stir until well blended. Pour the colored plaster into the tissue tubes.  Gently tap the side of each tube to get rid of air bubbles. Let dry for one to two days, peel off the mold and create at will.

**NOTES: This will be a messy project, so I recommend doing it outside. Also, Plaster of Paris thickens quickly, so you can’t take a long time preparing you’re mixture. You don’t need to rush but don’t stop in the middle of mixing. This stuff won't work on chalkboards, it's too hard, but it works great on sidewalks and lasts much longer than store bought stuff. 

From Woodbury County Conservation Board  
Theresa Kruid, Naturalist & Camp Director
Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center

4500 Sioux River Road, Sioux City, IA 51109
www.woodburyparks.com