DIY Hydrophobic Sand That Stays Dry in Water (It’s Science!)
Make DIY hydrophobic sand at home! It’s a science-meets-craft project that stays dry under water—budget-friendly, vibrant, and totally mesmerizing. Great for sensory bins and STEM fun!
If you’ve already tried moon sand or kinetic sand and thought “Wow, this is cool”—get ready to take it to the next level. This DIY hydrophobic sand (aka “magic aqua sand”) is like the mysterious, science-loving cousin of those other sandy crafts.
It’s vibrant, totally mesmerizing, and here’s the kicker: it doesn’t get wet. You pour it into water, and it stays dry. Like, what kind of sorcery is this?
Spoiler alert: it’s not actual magic—it’s science. When you treat regular craft sand with Scotchgard spray (yep, the stuff for couches), you coat each grain with a water-repelling layer. That means instead of soaking or clumping when it hits water, it holds its shape and texture, falling through liquid like colorful, flowing lava.
Think kinetic sand’s satisfying movement meets moon sand’s moldable charm — but underwater. Kids can pour, layer, and swirl their own little underwater sandscapes, and the results are chef’s kiss.
This project is super budget-friendly (about $1–2 per batch, depending on how much sand you use), and it’s perfect for home or the classroom. It’s hands-on science and creative play all rolled into one—and a great way to sneak in STEM without anyone realizing they’re learning.
So grab some sand, spray it down, and get ready for a DIY that’s equal parts craft, experiment, and jaw-dropping sensory experience. Let’s make it rain (sand, that is)!
Get the printable how to card below:
Magic Hydrophobic Sand
Equipment
- Spoon
- Container for water
- Funnel
Materials
- 1 bag play sand or decorative sand 1 lb – assorted colors
- Disposable aluminum trays
- Scotchgard fabric water shield
Instructions
- Pour each sand color into its own aluminum tray.
- In a well-ventilated area (highly recommend being outside) spray each color of sand with the Scotchgard fabric spray. Use the spoon to incorporate the spray into the sand.
- Repeat until all the colored sand has been strayed with Scotchgard.
- Leave the sand in a well-ventilated area for 24 hours, stirring each container of sand a few times while it dries.
- Fill a container with water. Pour or spoon the sand into a funnel, and watch as it floats to the bottom of the water.
- Layer the sand colors to create a unique design.
Did you enjoy this craft? Let me know in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out these other projects and tactile crafts:
Blow Painting • Borax Crystals • Bubble Wrap Painting • Cloud Dough • Food Coloring Art • Homemade Playdough • Jello Play Dough • Silly Putty • Spin Art • Weaving for Kids
