Let’s Create Art Outside!

Sidewalk chalk has been used for centuries as a popular art medium for children and adults alike. However, it wasn't until the early 1900s that sidewalk chalk became widely available in the United States. 

The first commercially produced sidewalk chalk was made by the Binney & Smith Company, which is now known as Crayola. They began producing chalk for schools and educators in the 1920s, and by the 1950s, sidewalk chalk had become a popular children's toy. 

Throughout the years, sidewalk chalk has been used for a variety of purposes, including artistic expression, games, and education. In recent years, sidewalk chalk art has become a popular form of street art, with many artists creating stunning, intricate designs on sidewalks and pavements around the world. 

Today, sidewalk chalk is widely available and is used by children and adults for a variety of creative and educational purposes. It remains a popular tool for outdoor play and artistic expression, and its colorful and playful nature has made it a beloved staple of childhood for generations. 

Homemade sidewalk chalk is a fun and easy DIY project that you can do with just a few simple ingredients. Here's how to make your own homemade sidewalk chalk: 

Materials: 

  • Plaster of Paris 

  • Tempera paint or food coloring 

  • Water 

  • Mixing bowl 

  • Spoon 

  • Paper towel or newspaper 

  • Small paper cups or silicone molds 

  • Petroleum jelly or cooking spray (optional)  

Instructions: 

  1. Begin by covering your work area with paper towel or newspaper to protect it from any spills or messes. 

  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of Plaster of Paris with 1/2 cup of water. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. 

  3. Add in a few drops of tempera paint or food coloring to the mixture, and stir until the color is evenly distributed. Add more color as desired, until you reach your desired shade. 

  4. Pour the mixture into small paper cups or silicone molds, filling each mold about 2/3 of the way full. If desired, you can coat the molds with petroleum jelly or cooking spray beforehand to make it easier to remove the chalk later. 

  5. Allow the chalk to dry and harden completely, which typically takes about 24 hours. Once dry, gently remove the chalk from the molds. 

  6. Now you're ready to use your homemade sidewalk chalk! Simply draw on a clean, dry sidewalk or pavement surface and enjoy your colorful creations.  

Note: This recipe makes a small batch of sidewalk chalk, so feel free to adjust the quantities as needed to make more. Also, be sure to avoid using this chalk on porous surfaces, as it may be difficult to remove. 

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