by Jaipi Sixbear

Who doesn't like drawing with chalk on a sidewalk? Why not learn to make homemade sidewalk chalk? Homemade sidewalk chalk can be used by children and adults alike. Children use it for hopscotch and other games. Adults make elaborate sidewalk chalk drawings at events or just scribble like kids.

Homemade Sidewalk Chalk - Economical

Sidewalk chalk drawings are far from permanent. The first rain washes them away. That makes it important to conserve money by making homemade sidewalk chalk. What better way to save money than to make it yourself?

Homemade Sidewalk Chalk - The Homemade Factor

Fans of my writing know I'm a huge proponent of homemade things. There's just something about do it yourself that makes things more interesting. It's also nice to know what goes into the things we use on a daily basis.

Homemade Sidewalk Chalk - Yes You Can

It really is possible to make homemade sidewalk chalk using just a few simple ingredients available at craft stores. Isn't it surprising? I know the first time I heard about it, I was skeptical. After making sidewalk chalk for myself the store bought version just doesn't work right.

Homemade Sidewalk Chalk - Color Variety

One of the best things about making sidewalk chalk at home is the variety of color combinations. All you need are primary colors to come up with endless variations. I recommend starting with just a few until you get the hang of things.

Homemade Sidewalk Chalk - Supplies

To make homemade sidewalk chalk you will need cardboard toilet paper rolls so start saving these now. Masking tape and wax paper are on the list as well. Powdered tempera paint color and plaster of paris are found at the craft store. Separate disposable containers and some stir sticks will be needed for each color.

Homemade Sidewalk Chalk - Prepare the Molds

Start by preparing the toilet paper rolls to use as molds for the sidewalk chalk. Cover one end with masking tape and line the homemade sidewalk chalk molds with waxed paper. This is so the sidewalk chalk doesn't stick to the mold. Stand the rolls open end up.

Homemade Sidewalk Chalk - Mix it Up

Mix together 1 ½ cups of plaster of paris and ¾ cup of water. This is the base for the homemade chalk. Use a disposable container such as an old milk carton for this job. Pour the mixed sidewalk chalk base into 3 separate disposable containers for coloring. This is a great way to use all those containers you've been saving.

Homemade Sidewalk Chalk - Add Color

Add up to 3 tablespoons tempera paint color to each container. Colors may be combined to make interesting combinations. For instance, if making orange chalk use 2 tablespoons yellow and 1 tablespoon red. Swirled chalk is made by only partially mixing in color.

Homemade Sidewalk Chalk - Pour into Molds

Now it's time to pour the homemade sidewalk chalk mix into the molds. Fill the molds up and tap lightly on the edge to remove air bubbles. It takes a bit of time for the sidewalk chalk to dry. Average dry time is 2-3 days. Once the chalk is dry it should slide easily from the molds.

Homemade Sidewalk Chalk - Just add Kids

The last ingredient needed is some fun loving kids. Armed with a couple pieces of homemade chalk each, this will keep them busy for hours. What if there are no sidewalks where you live? That's OK, this sidewalk chalk can be used on blackboards too.

Homemade Sidewalk Chalk - Other Uses

Another nice idea is to package homemade sidewalk chalk as a gift. Put a few sticks in a bundle and tie with string. How about making and donating sidewalk chalk to children's charities? What a fun way to give back to the community.