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How to Make Plasticized Goop

Plasticized goop became popular in the 1960s. Kids could put the goop into molds and bake it to create sculptures of bugs that would stick to walls or windows. Homemade plasticized goop can be made with different recipes, including an organic formula for children's use. It is less expensive than brand-name goop products. While homemade goop cannot be baked into molds, it can be played with for hours or even days to make a temporary hand print, mold into a temporary shape or throw it to stick against a wall or window.

Things You'll Need

Disposable plastic bowls
Wooden spoon
Medium saucepan
Traditional Recipe:
1/4 cup cornstarch
4 oz. white glue
1/2 tsp. Borax
1/4 cup warm water
Food coloring
Organic Recipe:
1/2 cup water
2 cups cornstarch
Food coloring (optional)
Silly Goop Recipe:
2 cups cornflour
2 cups warm water
3 cups flour

Instructions

- 1
  Pour 1/4 cup cornstarch into a disposable plastic bowl and sift it with your fingers or a fork to break up the particles. Mix in 4 oz. (1/2 cup) white glue until fully combined. Combine 1/4 cup warm water and 1/2 tsp. Borax in a separate bowl. Add a few drops food coloring; add more for vibrant goop colors. Combine the Borax mixture with the cornstarch/glue and stir with a wooden spoon for three minutes. Remove goop from the bowl and store in an airtight container.
- 2
  Make an organic version of this recipe without Borax. Combine 1/2 cup water and 2 cups cornstarch in a disposable plastic bowl. Add a few drops of food coloring, if desired, to create a more liquid goop. Goop with food coloring should be used only on a surface protected by plastic or newspaper to reduce staining.
- 3
  Prepare Silly-Goop by mixing 2 cups cornflour with 1 cup warm water. Pour the mixture into a saucepan and cook over low heat. Slowly add 3 cups flour, stirring constantly. As the mixture heats, slowly add an additional cup of water, stirring well. Cool the goop until it can be handled. Remove from the pan onto a floured surface. Apply flour to your hands and knead the goop until it is no longer sticky. Store in a plastic storage bag.

Childrens Toys