Tools & Materials

Plaster of Paris

Plaster of paris is the base for most homemade chalk recipes. It can be found online or in craft or home improvement stores. It’s dangerous if inhaled or ingested, so be sure to follow the instructions on the label and only use with adult supervision.

Nonstick Products

Petroleum jelly or nonstick cooking spray are used to help prevent chalk from sticking in the molds.

Molds

Candy molds, ice cube trays, muffin tins, and even toilet paper rolls can be used to give homemade chalk a variety of shapes. Silicone molds work especially well because they’re less likely to stick.

Thickeners

Cornstarch and flour can be found in any grocery store. They’re used as thickeners in many of the recipes.

Soaps

Liquid hand soap and dishwashing liquid or detergent are used to make foam or bubbles. They can also be added to a recipe to make cleanup easier and staining less likely.

Coloring

Liquid watercolors, acrylic craft paint, liquid food coloring, and washable tempera paint are used to give color to chalk and can often be used interchangeably. If staining is a concern, opt for washable paint.

Scent

Unsweetened drink mix packets, baking extract, and essential oils are used to add scent to chalk.

Pantry Items

Vinegar, baking soda, and salt are likely found right in your kitchen cupboard. Baking soda and vinegar are used to produce a chemical reaction, while salt can be used to grind chalk into a powder.

Personal Care Items

Hair gel, shaving cream or foam, and baby oil are inexpensive and can be found at discount and dollar stores. They are used in chalk recipes such as hair chalk and bath chalk.

Effervescent Antacid Tablets

Effervescent tablets can be purchased at drugstores, discount stores, or even dollar stores. The generic version works just as well as name brands for these activities. (Just make sure you don’t eat them!)

Sweet Stuff

Candy melts and fondant can be purchased at craft stores, online, or in some grocery stores. You can even try making your own!

Extras

Things like glitter, play sand, and sequins can be added to chalk for extra texture or visual appeal.

Chalk

In most cases, it doesn’t matter if you use store-bought or homemade chalk. However, there is a difference between sidewalk chalk and chalkboard chalk. Unless specified, the recipes and activities in this book use sidewalk chalk.