Food coloring
isn't just for food, it can be for projects too.
Food coloring is used primarily to enhance the appearance of foods that may naturally look bland. Since it is often consumed, the government regulations that keep it edible also make it safe for use in crafts and activities for all ages. Even so, use caution when working with food dye, because most food dyes are permanent and very difficult to wash away.
Condensed Milk Poster Paint
Poster paint made with condensed milk and food dye is a simple and fun rainy-day project for small children. By mixing almost any amount of condensed milk with food coloring, you will have created a glossy paint all ready for the paintbrush and poster surface. You can brighten or dull the color by using more or less dye or adding more milk. If your child happens to take a taste, the mix is edible and safe.
Slow Cooker Colored Yarn
Boiled water in a slow cooker can become the base of homemade yarn coloring. Assuming the standard pot is half full with water, add 1/2 cup of vinegar with several drops of food coloring. Stir the mixture well and lay the ball or spool of yarn right down into the slow cooker and replace the lid. The longer you leave the yarn in the pot, the brighter the color you will achieve. When you are satisfied with the color of your yarn, use a colander to strain the hot water out over your sink. Cautiously wring the yarn out after the yarn is at a temperature that your hands can withstand. Place the yarn on a thick plastic bag to air dry, so that the wet dye does not harm the counter or surface it sits on.
Colored Easter Eggs
Easter eggs are the most well-known use for food coloring crafts. There is no need to buy the store-brand Easter egg kits when you can make the very same thing right in your own kitchen. Combine 1 tsp. of vinegar for every cup of cold water you use, and add drops of your food coloring until you've reached the desired shade for the dip. Leave a hard-boiled egg in the cup of dye mix until it reaches the color you want, and remove the egg with a spoon. For glossier eggs, use a drop of vegetable oil on a paper towel to dry the egg.
Flower Effects
By placing flower stems into a simple mix of water and food coloring, the petals will absorb the color. The dye does not usually cause any harm, and since they are so porous, the flowers absorb the color rather quickly. Place a whole stem into a vase with food coloring for the flower to be one color, or split the stem and put each half in a different container with different colors. The possibilities are limitless, since there is no one set way to creating an artistic expression.
Tags: food coloring, with food, absorb color, condensed milk, Food coloring