Homemade Still

After researching for some simple practical alchemy I noticed that there doesn't seem to be a way to avoid the need to distill the matter and not everyone wants to fork over the $50 for a alembic that may break due to improper use. Here is my "still" made for virtually under $10 bucks. (Granted it assumes some existing materials.

Materials

• Heat resistant dish/pie plate, concave for spillage prevention
• Disposable microwave safe plastic food container, tall and square shape preferable
• Slightly larger microwave safe disposable plastic food container, round shape

Construction & Usage

1. Place your dish in your microwave or a frying pan filled with water. Make sure that the water won't spill into the plate.
2. Place the smaller round food container on the plate holding whatever material to be distilled.
3. Place the slightly larger food container upside over the smaller one.
4. If possible tip "cover" container so that one side is closer or even touching the plate.
5. Turn on the mircowave or you stove. Remember to use low heat.
6. Every once in a while give the "cover" a tap to shake off the condensation to the plate.

There you have it, a simple still with the ability to keep the evaporated part with stuff you have in your kitchen. (Though I do wonder if a coffee percolator that catches instead of filters the liquid would work as well...)