Erupting Volcano

Create an explosive learning experience with our Erupting Volcano project. This tutorial will guide you through crafting a volcanic eruption using Bostik adhesives and basic household materials. Perfect for science demonstrations, school projects, or a fun family activity, this DIY volcano brings geology to life in a spectacular way. Follow our step-by-step instructions to build and erupt your volcano safely, creating a memorable educational experience that combines creativity and scientific discovery.

What you will need

Clag® Paste
Recycled plastic bottle
Thick cardboard (50cm x 50cm)
Newspaper
Paint brushes
Craft paint
Utility knife
Scissors
Dinosaur figurines
Red food colouring (5-10 drops)
White vinegar (1 cup)
Baking soda (2-3 tsp)

Difficulty

Average time

2 hours (allow for drying)

Cost

Print version!

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare your base

Cut the top and bottom off the plastic bottle. Ask an adult to assist with using the safety knife. Use Clag^® PVA glue to stick the plastic bottle to the centre of the cardboard. Make sure the plastic bottle sits upright.

Note

Adult assistance required for this step!

Step 2: Cut newspaper

Cut up newspaper strips.

Step 3: Start to build

To begin building the volcano, scrunch strips of newspaper into balls, apply Clag^® and stick them around the base of the bottle. Repeat this step, working your way around and up the bottle to form a base for the papier mache.

Step 4: Layer it up

Next, apply Clag^® to a strip of newspaper and lay it onto the scrunched-up newspaper, from the top of the bottle to the bottom. Continue this process until the entire volcano is covered. Repeat step 5 twice - you’ll need at least three layers of paper! Leave the volcano to dry for 48 hours.

Step 5: Paint

Paint the volcano.

Step 6: Decorate!

Decorate the volcano with dinosaurs and/or other items.

Step 7: Watch it erupt

Take your volcano outside - this could get messy! Pour the baking soda into the top of the volcano. Add the red food colouring to the white vinegar, tip it into the volcano, and watch it erupt!