DIY: Holi Powder

By now I’m sure you’re getting a little sick of this pretty pink powder but it was a funnest Summer activity and makes for some really beautiful photos. I thought I’d share an easy DIY!

I’ve always wanted to visit India, especially during the Holi festival in the Spring. There’s something magical about the entire country turning into a sea of vibrant color. Since I’m so inspired by a wonderful wash of pigment I was pretty thrilled to try my hand at my own little batch.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1lb cornstarch (for each batch of powder)
food coloring
water
large bowl
spoon
cookie sheet
oven (preheated to 200 degrees)
strainer or sifter

Make it:

1. Pour a small amount of cornstarch into a bowl
2. Stir in 1 cup of water and the desired amount of food coloring (I used gel but liquid drops will work also).
3. Slowly mix in the remaining cornstarch. The more your pour, the harder the mixture will be to stir. Use your hands once the mixture becomes too difficult to manipulate with a spoon. Unless you want dyed hands (see above), I suggest gloves!
4. Using a sifter or strainer, sift the wet mixture onto a cookie sheet. The smaller the holes, the better!
5. Bake the wet cornstarch at 200 degrees for 1 hour. Be sure to check the mixture and stir every 20 minutes to avoid clumping.
6. Remove from oven, cool and sift the dry powder again. Store in a zipper storage bag.

p.s. This powder is perfect for photo shoots (gender reveal anyone?!), playtime and color runs! It’s completely nontoxic and edible (just in case a little powder makes its way into your mouth).

Chelsea Jackson