After reading about space we decided to make our own planets. This is a fun, easy project that all ages will enjoy. Watching the cup melt and change shape is definitely a highlight. This project can also be done as a modern art piece or to learn about the effects of heat. They would look great strung up or made into a mobile!
Supplies:
~ Clear or opaque plastic cups (the ones with the number 6 in the recycling symbol on the bottom of the cup work the best)- I used Targets up and up brand
~ Colored permanent markers (sharpies work great)
~ Parchment paper
Supplies:
~ Clear or opaque plastic cups (the ones with the number 6 in the recycling symbol on the bottom of the cup work the best)- I used Targets up and up brand
~ Colored permanent markers (sharpies work great)
~ Parchment paper

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and color the entire outside of the cup with permanent markers. The metallic markers create a fun effect!
Place the colored cup on a parchment- lined baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for several minutes. Keep an eye on the cup because once it starts melting it goes really fast (plus it's really fun to watch). If the cup is not completely flat, place a sheet of parchment paper over the melted cup and roll it out with a rolling pin. * Turn on the exhaust fan while melting in case of fumes. |

Some kids want ed holes punched in their planets to hang them up.

And some made eyeballs instead.
Enjoy!