Raising Richmond: Baby, you’re a firework!

It’s firework time kids: let the dangers and awesomeness of sparklers begin! We found this cool t-shirt craft for kids of all ages. Turn up the Katy Perry and get creative!

June 21, 2011; 6:00 AM • by Patience Salgado

It’s firework time kids: let the dangers and awesomeness of sparklers begin!

While we were waiting to make late night dreamy summer memories, we found this cool t-shirt craft for kids from Wondertime. It’s a mix between tie-dye goodness and crazy science–except a lot less work and mess.

— ∮∮∮ —

What you’ll need

White t-shirts (cotton)
Permanent markers
Alcohol
Medicine droppers (or you can recycle those old infant Tylenol droppers)
Drinking glasses
Rubber bands
Vinegar

— ∮∮∮ —

We put the shirt over the glass and wrapped the rubber band around until it was taut.

— ∮∮∮ —

The kids drew their designs. You can put a water bottle cap in the center and draw around it with dots and lines for a nice firework effect. Some kids, however, just drew whatever they wanted! After your design is finished drop 20-50 drops of alcohol in the middle.

— ∮∮∮ —

The ink will move and mix with the alcohol resulting in really cool art. The kids experimented with the alcohol technique to get a couple of different looks.

— ∮∮∮ —

After you are all done and in total awe of your creative super powers, you can drop a little vinegar over the designs to help the colors set. Drop the t-shirts in the dryer (do not wash first) for 20-30 minutes to finish.

The best part is this project was a hit with kids of all ages and easy to do with a gaggle. You know, for the four to five extra neighborhood kids that show up at your door. We also recommend some Katy Perry to complete the experience. Firework on friends! Happy 4th!