Few items have maintained the curiosity of generations of Americans as the well-loved lava lamp has done. People are always hypnotized and entertained by the continuous movement of the mystic blobs of liquid within the lamp. The lasting attraction of the lava lamp has added to its mass popularity, making it an iconic home decor selection. Its brilliant and engaging style makes it the idyllic decor accessory for the teen bedroom, kid bedroom or even a game room or family room.

This immense popularity oftentimes causes us to forget the science that powers the traveling blobs within the lamp. As a matter of fact, finding out just what makes the lava lamp function can be an exciting science project for youngsters. The standard precept in operation here is the fact that oil and water do not mix. The blobs of coloring that are seen in the lava lamp are actually a mix of colored wax that has been dissolved or liquefied and an agent that allows the wax to take a versatile form on while it is suspended in liquid. A lava lamp can be produced at home utilizing standard ingredients. Here’s how.

Collect the materials. Except for two items (non-toxic automotive antifreeze and perc), most of the materials required are discovered around the home. You will require a large glass container with a tightly fitting cover, distilled water and coloring for the lamp. To produce the distinctive “blob”, you will require candle wax that has been dissolved, tetrachloroethylene or perc (found in degreasers and dry cleaners), salt, non-toxic automotive antifreeze and distilled water.

Making preparations. Place the container in the deep freezer for several hours prior to assembly; it must be cold before preparing the lamp. Next, add the distilled water to the chilled container to a point that is around two to three inches from the container’s brim. Then add the coloring. A heaping teaspoonful of salt is then added; place the lid back on the container and shake it vigorously to dissolve the salt. At this point, you might opt to add some small bright beads. The container can now be placed to the side. You can now move to making the characteristic “blob” that makes a lava lamp so likable.

Producing the mystical “blob”. Mix precisely 11 tablespoonfuls of dissolved wax with 6 tablespoons of perc in a different container. Keep in mind that the perc will start to expand and will increase the pressure inside the container, so cautiously screw its lid back on. The two ingredients must then be blended by swirling the container, not by shaking it. Prior to pouring drops of the “blob” that you have made into the container filled with water, allow it to cool. A tinting agent can be contributed to the wax to produce a blob that contrasts with the water. Tighten the lid and tilt it a few times to check for leaks.

Allow your trendy new lava lamp to invigorate the decor for the whole room by bringing in large wall art with an op art feel or contemporary wall art with the same colors displayed in the lamp.

Author Bio: Carmen Overly is a writer for AmericanArtisanArt.com. Check our site to find sweet deals on metal wall art and contemporary metal wall decor.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: home decor, interior design, home improvement, diy