How long does it take for crystals to form?

You often see initial growth within a few hours, and more pleasing formation after 24 hours. Full drying and hardening can take a day or two. Patience rewards you with clearer facets.

Is baking soda safe for this project?

Yes, baking soda is a gentle, household-safe powder. It does not pose the same risks as stronger chemicals. Still, avoid ingesting the solution and wash your hands after handling the jars.

Can I speed up the process with hotter water?

Warmer water dissolves more baking soda and can speed initial formation. Use warm, not boiling, water. Very hot water may warp jars or change how crystals form. Slow and steady often yields more delicate structure.

Will the crystals survive being touched?

Crystals are delicate. Gentle handling is fine, but frequent touching or exposure to moisture will soften them. Place finished pieces in a protective spot if you want them to last.

Can I use natural materials like twine or dried flowers as the base?

Yes, you can experiment. Natural fibers like twine provide interesting textures and can lead to different crystal patterns. Dried flowers are more fragile and may change color, but they can hold small crystals beautifully.

How To Make Crystal Flowers 2026

Crystal Flowers

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Create stunning crystal formations by dissolving baking soda in warm water and shaping pipe cleaners into flowers. A gentle, mindful craft that invites patience and creativity.

Author: margaret-ellis
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 1 Crystal Flower
Category: Crafts
Method: Crafting
Cuisine: N/A
Diet: N/A

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons baking soda per cup of warm water
Clear glass jar or heat-safe cup
Warm water
Pipe cleaners in various colors
String or thin thread (optional)
Clothespins or a small stick (optional)
Small tray or plate
Food coloring (optional)
Tweezers (optional)
Gloves and a small towel

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare your workspace and tray.
Bend the pipe cleaner gently into a flower shape.
Add two tablespoons of baking soda per cup of warm water into the jar.
If you want color, add one drop of food coloring and stir.
Suspend your pipe cleaner flower just above or into the solution.
Leave the jar in a quiet spot to avoid disturbance.
Check after a few hours and again the next day for crystal formation.
When satisfied with the crystal growth, carefully lift the flower above the jar to drip excess solution.
Set the flower on a paper towel to dry for at least a day.
Display or handle your crystal bloom while ensuring it stays in a stable environment.

Notes

You can substitute alum or borax for stronger crystals, but use caution with these materials. Baking soda is gentler and ideal for a calm, mindful experience.

Find it online: https://www.cozyhandsdiy.com/how-to-make-crystal-flowers/