How to make Gelatin Bioplastic

Materials:

• Gelatin powder

• Boiling water (electric kettle)

• Silicone mat or plastic food container lid

• Toothpick

• Decorative pieces – glitter, flowers, bugs, shells etc. that you want to preserve or use to decorate

Procedure:

1. Heat water to a boil in the electric kettle.

2. Dissolve gelatin powder in boiling water (ratio of 1:4 – 1 tbsp. gelatine, 4 tbsp. water).

3. Add gelatin slowly so you don't end up with undissolved lumps. Stir until it fully dissolves. If the gelatine does not completely dissolve, add 1 tsp. of boiling water until fully dissolved.

4. Stir gently to avoid too many air bubbles.

5. Slowly pour the liquid onto recycled plastic (mold) creating a thin layer.

6. Place your decorative pieces (e.g. flowers, sequins, insects, etc.) into the liquid and use a toothpick to arrange the objects, completely submerge them and pop any air bubbles.  

7. *Be careful not to make it too thick.  If it’s more than about 1 cm, it may become moldy before it can dry out.*

8. Leave it to harden – It will need a warm, dry environment to dry out. 

9. The mixture will turn into a rubbery consistency within 15-30 minutes. Make sure to keep it in the plastic mold while drying so it doesn’t curl up!

10. It can take 1-4 days to cure completely, depending on the thickness.

11. When the gelatine has set, you can cut a hole in it to hang it or cut it into any shape you wish.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1IGuw_x7y8JiCUs813E8kU4jitAInMkdArIJf6gHWjdo/edit?usp=sharing