Sidewalk Chalk
Ages: 3 and up.

Materials needed to make one stick:


6 large, white eggshells
mortar and pestle or a rolling pin and waxed paper
3 small bowls
1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch
hot and cold tap water
1 teaspoon of high-gluten or pastry flour
5-8 drops of food coloring
3 x 5 index card
2 rubber bands
After removing the membranes on the inside, wash the eggshells and allow them to air dry.

Grind the eggshells into a fine powder with a mortar and pestle or by placing them on waxed paper and crushing them with a rolling pin. Put the powder in a small bowl.

In another bowl, mix the cornstarch with a half teaspoon of cold water. In the third bowl, mix together the flour and food coloring and then add hot tap water until the dough reaches the consistency of mashed potatoes. Mix the eggshell powder and cornstarch mixture into the dough.

Knead the mixture between your hands. In a few minutes the blend should reach the firmness of play dough. If it seems too wet, knead in a few extra pinches of flour; if it's too dry, add a few drops of hot water.

Roll the mixture into a stick, wrap a 3 x 5 card widthwise around it, and secure the card with rubber bands. Allow chalk stick to dry for two days, remove the card, and let it dry for two more days.

Tips: If you want to make white chalk, don't add any food coloring. Only use this chalk on sidewalks because it is abrasive and may leave marks on wood, ceramics, and walls.





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