These colorful homemade bouncy balls are a fun science craft! They are shiny, squishy and come in beautiful rainbow colors. A fun activity for experimenting with simple materials and learning about polymers.
DIY science activity
Prep time: 10 minutes
Setting time: 5–10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2–3 small balls
Important: The image only shows three ingredients and appears to be an incomplete recipe. The following is a suggested version.
1. Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tbsp borax powder
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp white school glue (PVA glue)
- Food coloring (pink, yellow, green, purple, etc.)
- ½ tsp glitter (optional)
2. Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the borax solution
In a small bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of borax in 1 cup of warm water.
Stir until dissolved. This step should be performed by an adult.
Step 2 – Prepare the glue mixture
In another bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of white school glue with a few drops of your chosen food coloring.
Mix until the color is evenly distributed.
Step 3 – Add the cornstarch
Add ½ teaspoon of cornstarch to the glue mixture and stir gently.
Step 4 – Add the borax solution
Add approximately ½ teaspoon of the prepared borax solution to the glue mixture.
Stir until the mixture begins to thicken and form a sticky mass.
Step 5 – Shape the ball
Remove the mixture using a spoon.
Gently knead it with gloved hands until it becomes less sticky, then roll it between your palms to form a ball.
Step 6 – Let it set
Allow the ball to rest for approximately 5–10 minutes until it becomes firmer.
Step 7 – Test the bounce
Drop the ball from a low height onto a hard, smooth surface and see how it bounces!
Repeat with different food coloring to create a beautiful rainbow collection.
3. Tips for better bouncy balls
- Use white PVA school glue.
- Add the borax solution gradually.
- Don’t add too much activator, as the ball may become hard and brittle.
- Knead gently until the mixture is no longer excessively sticky.
- Store finished balls separately to prevent them sticking together.
4. Safety precautions
Adult supervision required
- Borax is not edible and can irritate skin and eyes.
- Adults should prepare and handle the borax solution.
- Wear gloves when handling the mixture.
- Keep all ingredients and finished balls away from young children and pets.
- Never put the balls in the mouth.
- Wash hands and clean the work surface after the activity.
- Do not use food bowls or utensils for this craft.
5. Storage
Store the finished balls in separate airtight containers at room temperature. Discard them if they become sticky, damaged or dirty.
Have fun creating your own colorful collection of Super Bouncy Balls!
Note: This is a craft recipe, not an edible recipe. The balls are homemade toys and may not bounce as consistently as commercially manufactured ones.