www.craftsforkids.com

Hands on Crafts For Kids is the resource for kids craft projects and instructions for kids 6-12 and parents, teachers and other group leaders. It includes school and curriculum based projects,  multi cultural projects, and every day, holiday and seasonal ideas.

It is  the online home of the public television program Hands On Crafts for Kids.

	When you see the “helping hand” symbol on a project, it means you may need adult supervision to do the project.
	Always cover your work surface with a mat or some type of protective covering like wax paper or plastic.                                                      Always use care when using tools or a heat source. Be careful and safe!

Age Range: 7 to 12

Grade Range: 2 to 6

Skill Level: Moderate

Appropriate for These Special Events:
Every Day and Rainy Days

Supports Subject Area(s) of:
Language Arts – e.g. step by step instructions
Mathematics – measuring

Time needed for project:
1 hour plus 40 minutes to harden and cool

Kryptonite Soap
By Katie Hacker

Materials for the soap:                       Materials for the hanger:
Melt and pour glycerin soap base        Pepperell Braiding Co. Parachute 325 cord
Green soap dye                                   Chopstick or skewer
Cutting board                                      Scissors
Butter knife
Metal spoon
Glass measuring cup
Microwave

Even though the soap base in this project stays pretty warm rather than hot,
it's best to have adult supervision for soap projects.

For the soap:
1. Start by using a butter knife to slice pieces of soap off of the soap base.

2. Cut some of the pieces in half so they aren't all exactly the same size.

3. Layer the soap slices into a mold.

4. Microwave a few chunks of soap base for about 30 seconds. Gently stir soap
dye into the base, adding small drops until you reach the color you like.

5. Pour the soap base over the piles of soap slices, being careful to get some
warm soap on all of the slices to help them stick together.

6. Let the soap cool completely. You can place it in the refrigerator to speed up
the cooling process.

To add a hanger:
7. Use a chopstick or stylus to poke a hole near the top of the soap.

8. Cut two 24” lengths of Parachute 325 cord. Hold the cords together as one and center them inside the hole.

9. Begin the box braid: Fold two vertical strands in opposite directions across the
top of the soap. From one side, weave one strand over and under the vertical
strands. Repeat for the other side strand.

10. Repeat the stitching pattern for as long as you want to make the decorative
box braid. Tie the ends in an overhand knot to complete the hanger.

*If you don't have any soap molds, there are other things you can use. Ice cube
trays or yogurt cups make interesting shapes, especially if you aren't planning to
add a hanger.

For more information visit www.katiehacker.com