How to Make Bottles Glow Under Black Light

Bright, fluorescent highlighters work well for this project.

By using highlighter ink or paint, you can make an ordinary clear bottle glow under a black light, which reacts to certain colors. Choose a method that works most effectively for your project. The highlighter method is more effective for temporary experiments or play whereas a painted bottle will last longer. The method you use also depends on what materials you own. Most craft stores sell paint that glows under a blank light.

Things You'll Need

• Yellow highlighter markers
• Small hammer
• Rubbing alcohol
• Paint (white or colors made to show under a black light)
• Paint tray
• 1-inch foam paint brush

Instructions

Highlighters

1. Remove the caps from yellow highlighters. Tap the highlighters with the small hammer to break the plastic casing. Remove the felt portion of the highlighter once the plastic breaks. Put the foam piece into an empty bottle.

2. Fill the bottle halfway with rubbing alcohol.

3. Screw the lid on the bottle tightly. Shake the bottle for 20 seconds. Let it sit for two hours to let the ink from the felt mix with the water.

4. Shake the bottle for 10 seconds and then hold it under a black light.

Paint

1. Remove any labels, glue or tape from a bottle.

2. Pour the paint onto a tray.

3. Paint the outside of the bottle with the paint, using the sponge brush. Do not paint the threads of the bottle, which makes it difficult to close. Set the bottle aside to dry.

4. Place a small funnel into the opening of the dry bottle. Pour the paint into the bottle (1/8-cup per 12 ounces). Screw on the cap. Shake and roll the bottle to coat the inside with paint. Remove the lid and pour out the extra paint. Leave off the cap as the paint dries.

5. Hold it under a black light once it dries.

References

• Glow Bottles: How to Glow
• College Tips: Graffitti Party

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish