How to Make Simple Crystals

Measure out 4 tbsp. of water and place it in a bowl. Add 2 tbsp. of table salt and stir until the salt dissolves.

Add 2 tbsp. of laundry bluing and 2 tbsp. of ammonia to the salt mixture and stir until they are thoroughly combined. Add a drop or two of liquid food coloring if you want colored crystals.

Arrange charcoal briquettes, damp sponges or other porous materials in a shallow plastic or glass dish. These porous items are where the crystals will grow so experiment with different items.

Pour the salt mixture over the porous items in the glass dish. Cover each item with the mixture as evenly as possible, and scrape out any salt sludge in the bottom of the bowl and place it on top the items in the dish.

Place the dish where it won't be disturbed as the water and ammonia evaporate. Add 2 tbsp. of salt to the liquid in the base of the dish the second day to grow even larger crystals. Once the liquid is completely evaporated, usually within three to seven days, your crystals are done.