To create the base for your crystal, twist a few pipe cleaners together and tightly coil them into a disc-like shape. It’s best not to leave any gaps between pipe cleaners, otherwise you might end up with gaps in your crystal.

Cut a piece of thread and thread it through the pipe cleaner coil. Set aside.

Bring water to a boil and pour it into a heat-proof glass jar or measuring cup.

Measure ½ cup Borax and pour it into the jar.

Add ½ teaspoon food coloring and stir until the Borax is completely dissolved. Your crystals won’t be as dark at the water, so add more food coloring to achieve a deeper hue.

While the water is still very hot, dip the pipe cleaner coil into the Borax solution a few times to get rid of any air bubbles. Rest a pencil or skewer on the rim of the jar. Then tie the string around the skewer so that the coil is fully immersed but not touching the bottom.

To get larger crystals, cover the jar with a plate or dish towel. Then let sit overnight.

Remove the crystal from the solution, pat dry and cut off the string.

Once the crystal has dried completely, use hot glue to affix it to the top of your jewelry box.