Wearable Science: Chromatography
the art room and STEAM LABS
Become a walking experiment in this class where art and chemistry collide! We’ll use permanent markers to create designs and then use a “solvent” to watch the colors separate. This process, called chromatography, pulls the hidden pigments out of the ink to create vibrant, tie-dye-like rings. It’s a fascinating look at how color is made and how chemicals interact with fabric fibers. Each student gets to design and “develop” their own wearable piece of science to show off to friends.
What We’ll Do in Class
As the colors expand and ‘climb’ through the fibers, students are doing more than just making a shirt—they are engaging in active hypothesis testing. By predicting how the solvent will pull hidden pigments apart, they practice the scientific method in a tactile, high-stakes environment. This process of controlled experimentation strengthens executive function and critical thinking, encouraging kids to analyze cause and effect in real-time. This blend of precision and unpredictability fosters a growth mindset, teaching them that in both science and art, the most beautiful results often come from the reactions we can’t fully control.
OUR STUDIO MATERIALS
At our studio, we believe every artist needs the right foundation to grow. We provide recycled white craft paper for bold experimentation and ‘practice runs,’ allowing kids to play without the fear of wasting ‘good’ paper. For their final masterpieces, students graduate to heavyweight mixed media paper that holds pigment beautifully and won’t buckle under ink. We use high-quality, student-safe inks that provide rich color without the toxic fumes of traditional solvents. This balanced approach keeps our classes accessible while ensuring the final results are something your child will be proud to hang on the wall.
