How to Build an Erupting Volcano

Have fun and make a mess, all in the name of science.

Step 1: Make clay Make homemade clay by mixing the flour and salt in a bowl, and then adding water until the mixture is smooth in consistency.
Step 2: Center bottle Center the bottle on the baking sheet.
TIP: Cut a piece of cardboard so it fits in the baking pan, and glue the bottle to it. You can paint this cardboard to match the volcano.
Step 3: Shape volcano Shape the clay around the bottle to make it look like a volcano. Start at the bottom, creating a wide base, and work toward the top. Make sure to leave the mouth open.
Step 4: Paint the volcano Paint the volcano with the acrylic paint to make it look more realistic.
TIP: Decorate the base of the volcano with toy trees to add more life.
Step 5: Add liquids Pour the vinegar, red food coloring, and a few drops of dishwashing detergent into the bottle.
Step 6: Add baking soda Fold the baking soda into a tissue and drop it into the bottle, and watch in wonder as your volcano erupts.
FACT: Did you know? When Mount St. Helens erupted in 1980, the eruption caused the mountain’s elevation to drop 1,314 feet.