As humans, we’re innately drawn to squishy, stretchy, and slimy things. Slime has been around for over 40 years and it doesn’t seem like its popularity is going anywhere. Making your own slime is an entertaining and easy activity for both kids and adults. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to create your own slime using just two primary ingredients: Borax and glue. So put on your lab coat and let’s dive in!
What is Slime?
Have you ever played with slime and wondered what exactly it is made of? Slime is a stretchy, gooey substance that provides endless entertainment for kids and adults alike. It is a fascinating compound that can be made easily with just a few simple ingredients. Slime can be made in various ways with different ingredients, such as glue, contact solution, and even wood glue. If you are interested in learning how to make slime with borax and glue, then keep reading! Before we dive into the recipe, let’s first explore the science behind slime. If you want to try other types of slime, check out our guide on how to make fluffy glue or how to make slime with contact solution.
The Science of Slime
When it comes to making slime, the science behind it can be just as fascinating as the end result. Slime is a polymer, which means it is made up of long chains of molecules that repeat. In this case, the polymer is created by the reaction between the glue and the borax solution.
Glue – The main ingredient in slime is glue, which is a polymer called polyvinyl acetate (PVA). This polymer is a liquid at room temperature, but when it is mixed with the borax solution, it becomes something entirely different. The borax ions bind the polymer chains together, forming a single, stretchy substance.
Borax – The second main ingredient in slime is borax, which is a natural mineral salt. When borax is dissolved in water, it creates a solution that contains borate ions. These ions work to create cross-links between the polymer chains in the glue, which form a network structure. This network creates the stretchy, slimy texture that we all know and love.
| Ingredients | Reaction | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Glue | Borax Solution | Stretchy Polymer |
| Borax | Water | Borate Ions |
It’s important to note that while borax is commonly used in slime recipes, there are alternative activators that can be used instead for those who prefer to avoid it. Some of these include saline solution, liquid starch, and even contact lens solution.
The science of slime is a great way to learn about basic chemistry concepts like polymers and reactions. Plus, it’s a fun and hands-on way to see science in action! If you’re interested in learning about other glue-based crafts, you can also check out our article on How to Make Slime with Glue.
Materials Needed
What materials are needed to make slime with borax and glue?
Before beginning the slime-making process, it’s essential to have all the necessary materials within reach. Luckily, this DIY project doesn’t require anything too complex – in fact, you probably have most of the materials on hand already. To make slime with borax and glue, you’ll need:
– Elmer’s white school glue
– Borax powder
– Water
– Optional: Food coloring, glitter, and other add-ins.
If you don’t have Elmer’s white school glue, don’t worry – you can make slime with other types of glue, like wood glue or PVA glue. However, keep in mind that the consistency of the slime might vary depending on the type of glue you use. For more information on how to make slime with different types of glue, check out our other articles, like How to Make Slime with Wood Glue or How to Make Slime with PVA Glue.
Glue
When it comes to making slime, glue is one of the main ingredients you’ll need. In fact, glue is what gives slime its stretchy, gooey texture! There are a few different kinds of glue you can use, but one of the most common is white school glue. This can be found at most craft stores, as well as online. Another option is clear glue, which can give your slime a more translucent look.
When choosing a glue, it’s important to check the label and make sure it contains polyvinyl acetate (PVA) as an ingredient. This is what allows the glue to interact with the borax solution and create the slime. Some other glues, like natural or organic varieties, may not work as well for making slime.
Here’s a table summarizing some of the key features of different types of glue:
| Type of Glue | Features |
|---|---|
| White School Glue | Commonly used for slime making Has a thick, opaque consistency Sold in bottles ranging from 4 oz. to 1 gallon |
| Clear Glue | Gives slime a translucent appearance Can be used in combination with white glue for different effects Also sold in a range of bottle sizes |
| Colored Glue | Comes in a variety of colors for fun and unique slime Sold in smaller bottles, usually around 4 oz. May be slightly more expensive than plain white or clear glue |
No matter what type of glue you choose, be sure to measure it carefully according to the recipe you’re using. Too much or too little glue can affect the texture and consistency of your slime.
If you’re looking for other fun projects to try with glue, check out our guide on how to glue moss to cardboard or our tutorial for making sea glass with Elmer’s glue. Happy slime making!
Borax
Borax is a common household cleaner and laundry booster, but it can also be used to make slime. When making slime, borax acts as the “activator” that cross-links the glue molecules to form the stretchy, gooey substance we all know and love.
To make the borax solution, you will need:
- Borax powder
- Warm water
Mix 1 teaspoon of borax powder with 1 cup of warm water until the borax dissolves. You now have your borax solution!
It’s important to note that borax can be harmful if ingested or if it comes in contact with open wounds or eyes. It’s important to keep the borax solution, as well as the slime, out of reach of young children and to always wash your hands after handling it.
If you don’t have borax on hand, you can also make slime using other household items such as salt or body wash. Check out our articles How to Make Slime with Glue and Salt and How to Make Slime with Glue and Body Wash for more information.
You can also make slime using white glue instead of clear glue. Check out our article How to Make Slime with White Glue for step-by-step instructions.
Water
Water is an essential ingredient in making slime with borax and glue. Without water, the glue would be too thick and sticky, making it difficult to mix in the other ingredients. In this recipe, water serves as the solvent that helps dissolve the borax and glue and bind them together to create the slimy texture. Here are some important things you need to know about water that can help you make the best slime possible:
- The amount of water can affect the consistency of the slime. Adding more water than necessary can result in a runny slime, while using too little can make it too stiff. The recipe for making slime with borax and glue requires a specific amount of water, which is why it’s important to follow the instructions precisely.
- Use warm water. Warm water helps dissolve the borax and glue faster than cold water. This enables the ingredients to mix more effectively, resulting in a smoother texture of slime.
- Never replace water with other liquids. While some slime recipes call for other liquids like lotion or shampoo, it’s important to note that using these can affect the consistency of the slime, making it too sticky or runny, or even causing it to rot in a short period of time. Water is the only liquid you should use in making slime with borax and glue.
By following these tips and using the right amount of water, you can ensure that your slime turns out perfectly slimy and enjoyable to play with.
Optional: Food Coloring, Glitter, etc
While plain white slime is fun on its own, adding a pop of color and sparkle can make it even more appealing. Here are some fun options to try:
| Option | Usage |
| Food coloring | Add a few drops of food coloring to the glue and water mixture before adding the borax solution. Mix well until the color is evenly distributed. |
| Glitter | Add a pinch or two of glitter to the glue and water mixture before adding the borax solution. Mix well until the glitter is evenly distributed. |
| Essential oils or extracts | Add a few drops of essential oils or extracts to the glue and water mixture for a pleasant scent. |
| Sequins | For a little extra sparkle, add some sequins to the glue and water mixture. |
Keep in mind that while these additions can make your slime look and smell great, they may affect the texture and consistency. For example, adding too much glitter may make your slime too stiff and less stretchy. So, it’s best to start with a small amount and add more gradually until you achieve the desired result. Also, make sure to use only cosmetic-grade glitter that is safe for use on the skin.
Remember that these additions are optional and not necessary for making slime. Feel free to experiment with different combinations and find what works best for you.
Mixing the Ingredients
So, you’ve gathered all the necessary items to make your own slime and you’re ready to dive into the mixing process. Mixing glue, water, and borax can seem like a daunting task, but fear not! With a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to creating the perfect slime. Just follow the instructions below, and you’ll have a squishy, stretchy, and satisfying toy in no time.
Step 1: Prepare Borax Solution
To create the perfect slime texture, it all starts with the borax solution. Borax serves as a binding agent in this recipe. Here are the steps to prepare the solution:
- Measure out 1/2 cup of warm water and pour it into a mixing bowl.
- Add 1 teaspoon of borax powder to the bowl.
- Stir the water and borax mixture until the powder is fully dissolved. This creates the borax solution.
It’s important to note that borax should always be handled with care, as it can cause irritation if it comes in contact with your eyes or skin. Gloves can be worn to prevent any irritation or allergic reactions. It’s also important to keep the borax solution away from children and to never ingest it. Stick to using it only as a slime ingredient. Once the borax solution has been created, move on to the next step in creating the perfect slime recipe.
Step 2: Mix Glue and Water
To create the base of your slime, you will need to mix glue and water. This step is crucial for the success of your slime and should be done with care. Here’s how you can do it in just a few easy steps:
| Materials Needed: | Measurement: |
|---|---|
| White school glue or clear glue | 1/2 cup |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
Step 1: Find a mixing bowl and add 1/2 cup glue to it.
Step 2: Add 1/2 cup water to the mixing bowl containing your glue. Stir the mixture with a spoon to combine the two.
Step 3: Continue mixing the ingredients until they are fully combined. Ensure that there are no clumps or unmixed glue at the bottom or sides of the bowl.
Step 4: The mixture should be a smooth and consistent liquid. To check if it is ready, use your spoon to lift some of the glue and water solution out of the bowl. The consistency should be slightly runny, but still thick enough to pour.
It is important to mix the glue and water mixture well to ensure you have the right ratio of ingredients to create the desired texture of slime. Once you have completed this step, you are ready to move onto the next step of the slime-making process, combining the glue and water solution with the borax solution.
Step 3: Combine the Two Mixtures
Now that you have both mixtures prepared, it’s time to combine them to make your slime. This step takes a bit of preparation, but the end result will be worth it!
Step 3: Combine the Two Mixtures
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
| Step | Instructions |
| 1 | Slowly pour the borax solution into the glue mixture while stirring continuously. |
| 2 | Continue stirring until the slime begins to form. If the mixture is too sticky, add a little more borax solution. |
| 3 | Knead the slime for 2-3 minutes until it becomes less sticky and more elastic. |
As you combine the two mixtures, you’ll notice the texture of the slime starting to change. Initially, it may appear thin and watery, but as you continue to stir, it will begin to thicken and clump together. If you find that the slime is too sticky, simply add a little more borax solution until you reach the desired consistency.
Once you’ve combined the two mixtures, it’s important to knead the slime to help it become less sticky and more elastic. This is an important step, so be sure to spend 2-3 minutes thoroughly kneading the slime until it becomes smooth and stretchy.
Note that while making slime with borax and glue can be a fun activity, it’s important to follow safety guidelines and use the ingredients in moderation. Let’s take a look at some safety concerns in the next section.
Adding Color and Glitter
Once you have made your basic slime with borax and glue mixture, you can add some personal touches to make it unique. Adding color and glitter to your slime can take it to the next level! Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Choose Your Color
If you want to add color to your slime, start by choosing a color that you like. You can choose any color of food coloring that you have at home or pick up some at your local grocery store. Once you have your color, you can add it to your glue and water mixture before adding the borax solution.
Step 2: Mix in the Color
To mix your color into the slime, simply stir it into your glue and water mixture until the color is evenly distributed. You can add more food coloring if you want a more vibrant color.
Step 3: Add the Glitter
If you want to add glitter to your slime, you can do so now. Add a pinch of glitter to your glue and water mixture and stir it in. You can add more glitter if you want a more sparkly slime.
Step 4: Combine with the Borax Solution
Once you have mixed in your color and glitter, it’s time to add the borax solution. Pour the borax solution into the glue and water mixture and stir it until the slime starts to form.
Step 5: Knead the Slime
After your slime has formed, knead it with your hands to make it smooth and stretchy. If you want to add more glitter, you can do so now by sprinkling it onto the slime and kneading it in.
Remember that a little color and glitter goes a long way. Use it sparingly to avoid creating a sticky mess. Adding color and glitter can enhance the sensory experience of playing with slime and make it more fun and exciting.
Storing and Playing with Slime
After making your slime, you might be wondering how to store it properly and how to play with it. Slime can provide hours of fun and entertainment, but it’s important to take proper care of it to keep it in good condition.
Storing Slime: Store your slime in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or collecting dust. You can use a plastic container or a resealable bag. Keeping it in a cool, dry place will also help it last longer.
Playing with Slime: Once your slime is made, it’s time to play with it! Slime is a versatile play material that can be squeezed, stretched, and shaped. You can use cookie cutters or molds to make fun shapes, or simply use your hands to create different textures and designs.
Slime Clean-Up: Although slime is a lot of fun, it can also be messy. Always supervise young children when playing with slime to ensure it stays off of surfaces or fabrics that could be stained. If slime does end up on clothing or furniture, try using a solution of warm water and dish soap to lift the stain.
Slime Storage Time: Slime can last for several weeks when stored properly, but it’s important to keep an eye on it and make sure it doesn’t dry out. If your slime does become dry, you can add a small amount of water to it and knead it until it becomes soft again.
Slime is a great sensory material that can provide endless hours of fun and stimulation for children and adults. When taking care of your slime, be sure to store it properly, play with it safely, and clean up any messes promptly.
Troubleshooting
No matter how carefully you follow the steps, there can be times when your slime turns out too sticky or too hard. Don’t worry, you’re not alone – troubleshooting is a common part of the slime-making process. In this section, we’ll go over some common issues that you might encounter and how to fix them. So don’t give up on your slime dreams just yet, let’s troubleshoot together!
Slime is Too Sticky
If your slime is too sticky, don’t worry, you can easily fix it with a few simple steps. First, determine the cause of the stickiness. Was too much borax solution added to the glue mixture? Did you accidentally add too much water to the glue mixture?
Once you identify the problem, you can take the appropriate steps to fix it. Here are a few solutions to try:
- Add More Borax Solution: If you added too much water to the glue mixture, you can fix it by adding more borax solution. Prepare a new borax solution by dissolving more borax in warm water and add it slowly to the glue mixture until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Add More Glue: If you added too much borax solution to the glue mixture, you can add more glue to the mixture. This will dilute the borax solution and reduce the stickiness. Mix the extra glue in slowly until you get the desired consistency.
- Knead the Slime: If your slime is slightly sticky, you can knead it with your hands. Add a small amount of borax solution or glue to your hands and knead the slime until it becomes less sticky. Keep in mind that over-kneading can make the slime too hard, so do it in small increments.
- Store the Slime: If your slime is too sticky, you can store it in an airtight container for a few hours or overnight. This will allow the borax and glue to fully combine and reduce the stickiness.
With these simple solutions, you can easily fix a sticky slime recipe. Remember, the key is to determine the cause of the stickiness and take the appropriate steps to fix it.
Slime is Too Hard or Solid
If your slime turns out too hard or solid, don’t worry! There are several reasons why this might happen and ways to fix it. Here are some troubleshooting tips.
| Possible Reasons | Solutions |
|---|---|
| The Borax solution was too strong or too much was added. | Adjust the Borax solution: Add more water to dilute the Borax solution or use less of it. You may also try adding a bit of warm water to the slime to soften it. |
| Too much Borax was mixed with the glue and water mixture. | Make a new batch: Unfortunately, if too much Borax was added to the mixture, it is difficult to reverse the process. The best solution is to start again with a new batch of glue and water and follow the recipe instructions carefully. |
| The glue used was old or expired. | Use fresh glue: Expired glue or glue that has been exposed to air for a while can become thicker and harder, resulting in a harder slime. Make sure to use fresh glue for your slime recipe. |
| Not enough water was added to the glue mixture. | Add more water: If you didn’t add enough water to the glue mixture, the slime may turn out harder than desired. Try adding a little bit more water to the mixture and see if that helps soften it. |
| Overmixing the slime. | Mix the ingredients less: If you’ve mixed the ingredients too much, the slime may become too solid. Try mixing the ingredients less and see if that helps. |
Remember that experimenting is part of the fun of making slime, and it may take a few tries to get the consistency just right. Don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe or try different variations until you find the perfect slime recipe for you!
Safety Concerns
When it comes to making slime with Borax and glue, it’s essential to take some safety measures to ensure that everything goes smoothly. While the ingredients themselves are not necessarily harmful, it’s important to follow proper precautions to avoid any adverse reactions or accidents.
Wear Protective Gear
Before you start making the slime, it’s always a good idea to wear protective gear, especially if you have sensitive skin. Wear gloves to avoid any potential irritation or allergic reactions to the ingredients.
Avoid Ingesting the Slime
Slime is not meant to be eaten, so ensure that you keep it away from your mouth and do not allow children or pets to play with it unsupervised. If ingested, the Borax solution used in the slime can cause digestive issues and even lead to poisoning in rare cases.
Wash Your Hands
After handling the Borax and glue, ensure that you wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth while handling the ingredients, and keep them away from food and cooking surfaces.
Proper Storage
When not in use, store the slime in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing the slime in containers that are not intended for food use, as chemicals from the container may leach into the slime and cause contamination.
By following these safety measures, you can enjoy making and playing with slime with Borax and glue without worrying about any potential hazards. Always ensure that you handle the ingredients with care and keep the slime away from any inquisitive mouths or noses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making slime with borax and glue can be a fun and educational activity for both kids and adults. Not only does it provide a hands-on experience in mixing and experimenting with different ingredients, but it also sparks an interest in the science behind slime and polymerization.
As with any craft or science experiment, it is important to prioritize safety and follow guidelines closely. Always use properly labeled materials and work in a clean and organized environment. It is also recommended to involve adult supervision, especially for younger children.
Remember that making slime with borax and glue is only one of many ways to create slime. There are alternative methods using laundry detergent or contact lens solution that may be more convenient or suitable for certain individuals. Take the time to experiment and find the method that works best for you.
Overall, making slime can provide hours of entertainment and a chance to explore the fascinating world of polymers. So next time you’re in the mood for a sensory experience, gather up some glue, borax, and optional additives and let your inner scientist shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute borax for another substance?
Yes, you can substitute borax with contact lens solution or liquid starch. However, the consistency of the slime may vary.
Can I use clear glue instead of white glue?
Yes, you can use clear glue instead of white glue. The end result will be slightly translucent instead of opaque.
Is slime safe to play with?
As long as it is made with non-toxic ingredients and not ingested, slime is generally safe to play with. However, adult supervision is recommended for young children.
Can I add essential oils to my slime?
Yes, you can add a few drops of essential oils for fragrance. However, make sure to only use high-quality oils and not add too much as it may affect the consistency of the slime.
What should I do if my slime gets on my clothes?
Try to remove as much of the slime as possible with a spoon or dull knife. Then, use warm water and soap to wash the affected area.
How can I make the slime more stretchy?
Adding more water to the glue mixture can make the slime more stretchy. You can also try adding lotion or baby oil to the mixture before adding the borax solution.
Can I store slime overnight?
Yes, you can store slime in an airtight container overnight. However, the longer it sits, the more it may lose its elasticity.
What should I do if my slime gets too hard?
If your slime is too hard, try adding a few drops of warm water and kneading it until it softens to the desired consistency.
Can I make slime without borax or glue?
Yes, there are alternative recipes that use ingredients such as cornstarch or shampoo. However, the texture and consistency may differ from traditional slime.
How can I safely dispose of slime?
Slime can be disposed of in the trash. However, it’s important to avoid pouring leftover slime down the drain as it may cause clogs.