Kids Kreate

A fun chemistry project for older students. This science experiment makes a great boy scout project. Make a batch of the sparkling pine cones for your next bonfire or outdoor event.

Sparkling Pine Cones or Yule Logs

You'll need:

large pinecones OR small logs

wooden or crock containers

rubber gloves

cheesecloth bag or old pillowcase

newspapers

table

salt

borax ( laundry section of your market)

water

Here's what you do:

1. Put a pound of salt OR borax and a gallon of water into the container. DO NOT MIX THE SALT AND BORAX! Salt gives you yellow flames and borax gives you green. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.

2. Put a few cones at a time in the pillowcase. Dip them in the water mixture and soak thoroughly.

3.Drain the cones and spread them out on the newspaper to dry. This may take several days!

When they are completely dry put them in mesh bags or paper sacks so the air circulates.

Treat small logs the same way for a Yule Log.

Belinda Mooney is the mother of seven children, a veteran homeschooler and a freelance writer. Her articles have appeared in over 70 publications. Her Kids in the Kitchen column is carried Mid-Ohio Valley Parenting, Families First and Gainesville Family. You can reach her at

Join our mailing list for updates! Send a blank .