How to Make Acrylic Ice

Acrylic ice cubes may be used in varying decorations.

Acrylic---or fake---ice is ideal for party decorations, centerpieces and displays. Acrylic ice looks just like the real thing, and you never have to worry about it melting. Making fake ice is a simple and inexpensive craft project that can save you the expense of purchasing pricey plastic ice when the motif of the occasion requires it.

Things You'll Need

• Aluminum ice cube tray
• Acrylic or plastic clear craft beads

Instructions

1. Buy an aluminum ice cube tray and a bag of plastic, clear beads at your local hobby or craft retailer. Ice cube trays come in a variety of shapes and designs to fit your needs and creativity.

2. Preheat an oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Place several beads into each mold in the ice cube tray. Do not overfill the molds. Two or three beads, depending on the size of the molds, should be sufficient.

4. Place the ice cube tray into the oven and allow the beads to completely melt, which should take about 20 to 25 minutes.

5. Remove the ice cube tray from the oven and allow the melted plastic to cool before popping them out.

Tips & Warnings

• Use acrylic ice cubes for winter or cold-weather decorations around the house.

• Acrylic ice cubes work well with colored gels to create fake drinks and other artificial foods.

• Use an oven mitten when removing the hot ice cube tray from the oven.

• Monitor the oven so as not to burn the plastic.

References

• BellaOnline: Melting Beads