Home >> Science & Nature >> Nature

How to Make a Volcano out of Molding Clay

Simple ingredients can be fashioned into a volcano. Using molding clay will make the structure strong and durable. As it dries, any cracks can be incorporated into the natural volcano look. The drying time is about a week. When the structure is dry, it is then ready for multiple explosions of homemade lava consisting of baking soda, vinegar and red food coloring. The addition of crushed instant oatmeal gives the lava a molten effect.

Things You'll Need

Modeling clay
Funnel
Cookie sheet with raised edges
Cardboard box
Glue
12-ounce clean plastic beverage bottle
Utility knife
Baking soda
White vinegar
Liquid dish washing detergent
Measuring cup and spoon
Plain instant oatmeal finely crushed
Red food coloring
Acrylic paints

Instructions

- 1
  Spread newspaper around the area where the volcano will be constructed. Cut the cardboard to fit the cookie sheet.
- 2
  Cut off the neck of the plastic bottle. Put glue on the bottom and attach it to the cardboard-lined cookie sheet. Let dry.
- 3
  Build up a ring of clay around the bottom of the bottle to form a base. Continue to build it out and up to form the cone-like shape of a volcano. The top of the volcano will be above the bottle's top by an inch. Let the structure dry in an undisturbed place for up to a week to guarantee the clay contains no moisture.
- 4
  Paint the volcano natural colors like greens, brown or grays. If cracks appear in the dried clay, it adds a more realistic effect. Follow the cracks using a paintbrush and black paint.
- 5
  Measure 1/4 cup of white vinegar and mix with a few drops of liquid dish detergent, red food coloring and 1/2 teaspoon of crushed instant plain oatmeal. Pour through the funnel into the plastic bottle inside the volcano. Add 2-3 teaspoons of baking soda when ready for the explosion.

Nature