How to Build a Volcano

Activity 1: Molding

Materials Needed

From the Kit:

• One packet of plaster powder
• Volcano mold
• Paint
• Brush
• Mortar

From Home:

• An old bowl
• A cup of water
• An old dishcloth or other cloth

Instructions

1. Mix the Plaster

   Add water to the bowl. Open a bag of plaster powder and pour it into the bowl. Maintain the water to plaster ratio at approximately 4:5. Use a mixer [or stirrer] to begin stirring gently. Do not stir for too long, or the plaster will begin to harden. If it starts to form a lump, it will be difficult to use for molding.

   [Visual Description: Image shows plaster powder, water, a bowl, and a mixing tool.]

2. Pour into Mold

   Place the volcano mold on a level surface with the cavity facing upwards. Pour the plaster mixture into the cavity. Gently shake the mold to remove air bubbles from the plaster.

   [Visual Description: Image shows the mold being filled with plaster.]

3. Let Harden and Demold

   Let the plaster harden. This will take approximately 30 minutes. Lay a dishcloth on a flat surface and gently press the back of the mold so that the hardened plaster figures fall onto the cloth.

   [Visual Description: Image shows the hardened plaster volcano being removed from the mold onto a cloth.]

Activity 2: Painting

When the plaster volcano is completely dry (usually takes 24 hours), you can paint it. This kit includes 6 paints and 2 brushes. You can use the packaging mold for painting.

[Visual Description: Image shows paint pots and brushes, with a partially painted volcano model.]

Activity 3: Eruption

1. Safety First

   Put on the provided safety glasses. ?

2. Create the Eruption

   Place the citric acid and baking soda on top of the volcano. Then add water.

   [Visual Description: Image shows a volcano erupting with red lava.]

Colour Mixing Guide

Follow this guide for mixing colors:

• Yellow + Red = Orange
• Blue + Yellow = Green
• Red + White = Pink
• Blue + Red = Dark Purple
• White + Blue = Light Blue
• Yellow + Blue = Lime Green
• Red + Black = Brown

[Visual Description: A guide showing small color swatches and their resulting mixed colors.]