How to Make Colored Rice

Rice can make art!

Colored rice can be used by kids or adults to make all kinds of craft projects, such as mosaics. It is a medium that's simple to make, fun to use and really affordable, too. What's not to love?

Things You'll Need

• 1 cup dry white rice
• 1 teaspoon rubbing alcohol
• 3 to 4 drops food coloring
• Bowl
• Spoon
• Waxed paper or aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Measure the dry rice into a bowl. Add the rubbing alcohol, and stir well to coat.

2. Drop on the food coloring, stirring between each drop. Add food coloring, and keep mixing until the rice is your desired color.

3. Place a sheet of waxed paper or foil on a flat surface. Pour the colored rice onto the waxed paper or aluminum foil.

4. Allow the colored rice to dry completely. This usually takes about one hour.

5. Repeat steps to make additional colors of rice. To make a mosaic, draw a simple design onto a piece of card stock or thin cardboard. Add glue to your design, one area at a time, and then sprinkle on the colored rice. Or layer different colors of rice in a glass jar, as you might layer colored sand.

Tips & Warnings

• You can substitute dry noodles, such as elbow macaroni, for the rice.

• Do not eat the colored rice.

Resources

• Make a Rice Snack