Have you ever dreamt of erasing your mistakes effortlessly, creating intricate eraser sculptures, or even using your eraser as a stress-reducing fidget toy? Look no further than eraser putty, a versatile and fun material that can bring your eraser-related fantasies to life. Unlike traditional erasers, eraser putty doesn’t shred or leave behind residue, making it a cleaner and more precise tool for erasing graphite and other writing media. With its unique ability to mold and shape like clay, eraser putty opens up a world of creative possibilities, from making custom pencil toppers to crafting tiny eraser figurines.
Moreover, eraser putty is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create your own batch of eraser putty at home. This DIY project is a great way to engage in hands-on creativity, explore the properties of different materials, and have fun while avoiding harsh chemicals. We’ve compiled a step-by-step guide that will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you have a perfect eraser putty outcome every time.
Before embarking on this exciting adventure, let’s gather the necessary ingredients. You’ll need polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) glue, borax powder, food coloring (optional), and a few household items like a spoon, a bowl, and some water. Once everything is prepared, let’s dive into the magical world of eraser putty creation!
Understanding the Chemistry of Eraser Putty
Eraser putty, also known as silicon putty or kneaded rubber, is a unique and versatile material with fascinating chemical properties. Its versatility stems from the fact that it is a non-toxic, elastic substance that can be molded into various shapes and textures.
The primary component of eraser putty is polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a silicone-based polymer. PDMS has a chain-like structure composed of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms, with methyl groups (-CH3) attached to each silicon atom. This molecular structure gives PDMS its unique physical properties, including its flexibility, softness, and resistance to heat and chemicals.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Polymerization | PDMS is formed through a process called polymerization, where individual silicone molecules bond together to create long chains. |
| Cross-linking | In eraser putty, PDMS chains are cross-linked, meaning they are connected at various points by strong chemical bonds. This cross-linking gives the material its elastic properties and prevents it from melting easily. |
| Viscosity | The viscosity of eraser putty can be adjusted by varying the degree of cross-linking. Higher cross-linking leads to a stiffer putty, while lower cross-linking results in a softer putty. |
| Surface Tension | PDMS has a low surface tension, which allows it to easily conform to different surfaces and makes it an excellent material for picking up dust and dirt. |
Gathering the Necessary Ingredients
To create eraser putty, you will need the following ingredients:
1. 1 cup of white school glue (polyvinyl acetate): White school glue is the primary component that binds the putty together and gives it its adhesive properties. It’s important to use fresh, white glue for best results, as old or discolored glue may not perform optimally.
2. 1/2 cup of borax powder (sodium tetraborate): Borax powder is a key ingredient that activates the cross-linking process within the glue, transforming it into a rubbery putty. It’s important to use borax powder that has not expired or become contaminated, as this can affect the formation of the putty.
Borax Powder: A Versatile Substance
In addition to its role in eraser putty, borax powder has various other applications. Here are some examples:
| Usage | Description |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | As a cleaning agent for surfaces, laundry, and drains |
| Pest Control | As a natural insecticide and rodent repellent |
| Textile Industry | As a fire retardant and water softener in fabrics |
Mixing the Ingredients
To make eraser putty, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup white school glue
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon borax powder
- Food coloring (optional)
Begin by measuring out the glue and water into a bowl. Stir until the glue is completely dissolved. If you are using food coloring, add a few drops now and stir until the desired color is achieved.
Adding the Borax Powder
The borax powder is what causes the eraser putty to form. Add 1 tablespoon of borax powder to the glue mixture and stir until it is completely dissolved. The mixture will start to thicken and become more rubbery. If it is too thick, add a little more water. If it is too thin, add a little more borax powder.
The following table provides a more detailed guide to the amount of borax powder to add based on the desired consistency of the eraser putty:
| Consistency | Borax Powder |
|---|---|
| Soft and pliable | 1 tablespoon |
| Medium-firm | 1 1/2 tablespoons |
| Firm and bouncy | 2 tablespoons |
Once you have achieved the desired consistency, knead the eraser putty for a few minutes until it is smooth and elastic. It is now ready to use!
Kneading the Putty
Once you have mixed the ingredients together, it’s time to knead the putty. This will help to combine the ingredients and create a smooth, elastic consistency.
To knead the putty, start by flattening it out with your hands. Then, fold the sides over and press them together. Continue kneading the putty until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the putty is too sticky, add a little more baking soda. If the putty is too dry, add a little more water.
Once the putty is the desired consistency, it’s ready to use. You can play with it, shape it, or use it to erase pencil marks.
Tips for Kneading the Putty
Here are a few tips for kneading the putty:
| Tip |
|---|
| Use your fingertips to knead the putty. This will help to prevent the putty from sticking to your hands. |
| Knead the putty on a clean surface. This will help to prevent the putty from picking up dirt or debris. |
| If the putty is too sticky, add a little more baking soda. |
| If the putty is too dry, add a little more water. |
| Once the putty is the desired consistency, it’s ready to use. |
Achieving the Desired Consistency
The ideal consistency for eraser putty is soft and pliable, allowing it to pick up pencil marks effectively. If the putty is too hard, it will struggle to adhere to the paper, while if it’s too soft, it may become mushy and difficult to handle.
Adjusting the Ratio of Ingredients
The ratio of eraser crumbs to glue will determine the firmness of the putty. For a softer putty, use more eraser crumbs and less glue. Conversely, for a firmer putty, use less eraser crumbs and more glue.
Adding Liquid
If the putty is too dry, adding a small amount of water or rubbing alcohol can help soften it. Start by adding a few drops at a time and mix thoroughly until the desired consistency is achieved.
Using a Kneading Motion
Kneading the putty helps to distribute the ingredients evenly and create a consistent texture. Use a gentle kneading motion, gradually working the putty until it becomes pliable.
Testing the Consistency
To test the consistency of the eraser putty, try erasing a small area of pencil marks. If the putty picks up the marks cleanly without leaving smudges or residue, it is at the correct consistency. If the putty struggles to erase or leaves debris behind, adjust the consistency using the methods described above.
| Desired Consistency | Adjustments |
|---|---|
| Soft and pliable | More eraser crumbs, less glue |
| Firm and workable | Less eraser crumbs, more glue |
| Too dry | Add a few drops of water or rubbing alcohol |
| Too soft | Add more eraser crumbs or let the putty dry for a while |
Storing Eraser Putty for Optimal Performance
Airtight Container:
The single most important factor in preserving the quality of eraser putty is to store it in an airtight container. This will prevent it from coming into contact with oxygen, which can cause it to harden and become brittle.
Cool and Dry Environment:
It is also important to store eraser putty in a cool and dry environment. High temperatures can cause it to soften and become sticky, while humidity can cause it to mold.
Away from Direct Sunlight:
Direct sunlight can damage eraser putty, causing it to fade and become less effective. Therefore, it is best to store it in a place where it will not be exposed to direct sunlight.
Kept Soft and Pliable:
If eraser putty has become hard or brittle, it can be softened by kneading it with your hands. This will help to distribute the oils and make it more pliable.
Avoid Storing in Refrigerator:
Storing eraser putty in the refrigerator is not recommended, as it can cause it to become too hard and difficult to use.
Useful for Cleaning:
In addition to its primary purpose of erasing pencil marks, eraser putty can also be used to clean small objects, such as jewelry or keyboard keys.
Table of Recommended Storage Conditions for Eraser Putty:
| Condition | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Container | Airtight |
| Temperature | Cool (room temperature or below) |
| Humidity | Dry |
| Sunlight | Avoid direct exposure |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The putty is too sticky
If the putty is too sticky, it may be because you added too much liquid starch. Add a little more borax solution one teaspoon at a time, stirring constantly, until the putty reaches the desired consistency.
The putty is too dry
If the putty is too dry, it may be because you added too little liquid starch. Add a little more liquid starch one teaspoon at a time, stirring constantly, until the putty reaches the desired consistency.
The putty is crumbly
If the putty is crumbly, it may be because you did not knead it enough. Knead the putty for several minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
The putty is too hard
If the putty is too hard, it may be because you added too much borax solution. Add a little more liquid starch one teaspoon at a time, stirring constantly, until the putty reaches the desired consistency.
The putty is not erasing well
If the putty is not erasing well, it may be because it is too dry or too sticky. Adjust the consistency of the putty by adding more liquid starch or borax solution as needed.
The putty is turning brown
If the putty is turning brown, it may be because it is exposed to air. Store the putty in an airtight container when not in use.
The putty is moldy
If the putty is moldy, it may be because it was not stored properly. Store the putty in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
How to Make Eraser Putty
Eraser putty is a fun and easy-to-make material that can be used to clean up pencil marks and other small messes. It is also a great way to keep kids entertained. Here’s how to make your own eraser putty:
- Gather your materials. You will need:
- 1/2 cup of white school glue
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1/4 teaspoon of borax powder
- Food coloring (optional)
- Mix the glue and water together in a bowl. Stir until the glue is completely dissolved.
- Add the borax powder to the glue mixture. Stir until the mixture starts to thicken and form a putty-like consistency.
- If desired, add food coloring to the putty and stir until the color is evenly distributed.
- Knead the putty until it is smooth and elastic.
- Store the putty in an airtight container. It will last for several weeks.
People Also Ask
What is eraser putty made of?
Eraser putty is made from a mixture of white school glue, water, and borax powder. The glue and water form a polymer bond, and the borax powder acts as a cross-linking agent, which helps to create a strong and elastic material.
Is eraser putty safe for kids?
Yes, eraser putty is safe for kids to use. It is non-toxic and does not contain any harmful chemicals. However, it is important to supervise young children while they are using eraser putty, as they may try to eat it.
How long does eraser putty last?
Eraser putty will last for several weeks if it is stored in an airtight container. However, it may start to dry out and become less effective over time. If the eraser putty starts to dry out, you can add a few drops of water to it and knead it until it is smooth again.
