Making colored kinetic sand at home is a fun and easy way to engage kids in creative sensory play! This vibrant version of traditional kinetic sand adds an extra level of excitement with bright, customizable colors. Add it to your list of go-to sensory recipes, and you’ll always have something colorful and fun to whip up!
DIY Colored Kinetic Sand
Kids love digging their hands into cool sensory textures like play dough, slime, sand foam, sand dough, and this colored kinetic sand recipe we have been testing out!
My son loves to explore new textures, and it never gets old for us to pull out one of our easy-to-make sensory creations and whip up something for the afternoon, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating.
This kinetic sand is borax-free and non-toxic, making it safe for kids of all ages to enjoy. However, it is NOT edible. You can find taste-safe sensory play options here.
Colored Kinetic Sand Recipe
Supplies:
- 1 cup colored sand
- 2 tablespoons AND 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 2 teaspoons liquid dish soap
- 2 tablespoons glue
Note: If you’re using an organic or all-natural dish soap, it might not have the same surfactants as regular dish soap, which can affect the texture of the kinetic sand. For best results, use a standard dish soap, as it contains stronger surfactants that help the ingredients mix smoothly.
How to Make Colored Kinetic Sand
STEP 1: Stir together sand and cornstarch. The cornstarch will not mix well (white streaks will remain) but stir until evenly blended.
STEP 2: Add the oil and press the sand into the oil using the back of a spoon.
STEP 3: Then, add the liquid dish soap and press into the sand using the back of a spoon. The mixture will resemble moon sand when pressed together but will fall apart quickly.
STEP 4: Add the glue and stir (pressing if needed) until completely combined.
TIP: Because all sands can be different, test your kinetic sand to make sure it is clingy enough without being sticky. If you desire a clingier sand, add a little more glue, combining well after each small addition.
STORAGE: Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
💡 I recommend putting the kinetic sand in a large bin that’s not too shallow for younger kids. Older kids may enjoy playing more calmly with it on a craft tray, tuff tray, or a dollar store cookie sheet.
More Cornstarch and Sand Activities
👉 CHECK IT OUT: Sensory play activities for the whole year!
With Cornstarch and/or Sand:
- Make 2 Ingredient Oobleck
- Try this Super Soft Dough Recipe
- Mix up Moon Sand
- Mix up Sand Foam
- Create Sand Slime
- Make Colored Kinetic Sand
- Try a Sandbox Volcano
- Sand Dough Recipe (like cloud dough but with sand)
Free Printable Sensory Play Guide
Our free sensory play guide is the perfect reminder to make new play materials with your kiddos. Bookmark, save or print it and stick it on the fridge or bulletin board. You’ll never run out of awesome activities to do with kids.
FAQ: DIY Colored Kinetic Sand
Can I use regular beach sand to make colored kinetic sand?
No! Colored play sand or craft sand works best because it’s already dyed.
How long does homemade colored kinetic sand last?
If stored in an airtight container, it can last several weeks. If it dries out, try kneading in a little more glue or dish soap.
Why is my colored kinetic sand sticky or too wet?
Add more cornstarch a little at a time until the texture improves. It should feel moldable but not gooey.
Can I make this without glue?
This recipe needs glue to bind the sand. For a glue-free option, try our 2-ingredient moon sand recipe instead.
Is colored kinetic sand safe for toddlers?
This version is non-toxic but not edible. Supervision is always recommended for younger children.
Printable Preschool Bundle Theme Pack
Get ready to explore this year with our Preschool STEM Bundle! There are 20+ fun preschool themes to get you started. This is an ” I can explore” series. You’ll find even more sensory bin ideas!
Each unit contains approximately 15 activities, with instructions and templates as needed. Hands-on activities are provided to keep it fun and exciting. This includes sensory bins, experiments, games, and more! Easy supplies keep it low cost, and book suggestions add to the learning time.
