It’s so fun watching the colors blend together and it’s even more fun to watch the shrinky dink film shrink in the oven! This is such a fun craft for both kids and adults. Give your keychain as a special gift, or keep if for yourself!
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What are Shrinky Dinks?
Shrinky Dinks are sheets of thin, flexible plastic that are made of polystyrene aka recycled plastic #6. When the shrinky dink film is placed in the oven it shrinks down to 1/3 of its original size and becomes thicker. Shrinky Dinks were invented in the 1970s, and reached their height of popularity in the 1980s, but they can still be bought today! It’s super fun to colour something and then watch it curl up and shrink down in size. Shrinky Dink film is often used to make keychains, zipper pulls, ornaments, and jewelry.
What type of Shrinky Dink film should I use to make my keychain?
We recommend using Crystal Clear Shrinky Dinks. The tie dye effect shows up really nicely on the clear plastic. We tried making Sharpie tie dye on white Shrinky Dink film, but it was very matte and the tie dye look didn’t show up as well, so we didn’t love the look.
How much do these Shrinky Dinks shrink?
The clear shrink film shrinks to one third of its original size and become 9 times thicker. Our star keychain started off a little over 3 inches across and it was 1-1/4 inches in size after shrinking!
Can I use other markers besides Sharpies?
We’ve only used Sharpies, so we can’t say for sure, but you should be able to use any type of alcohol ink permanent marker. Washable markers will not work for Shrinky Dinks.
What type of rubbing alcohol do I need for Sharpie tie dye?
For best results use a high percentage isopropyl alcohol such as 91% or 99%. A lower percentage, like 70%, probably won’t work. We tried to make our Sharpie Dyed Tile Coasters with 70% rubbing alcohol at first, but the ink didn’t run until we used 99% rubbing alcohol.
What if I don’t have an eye dropper?
If you don’t have an eye dropper you can use a small measuring spoon (1/8 or 1/4 teaspoon) to drop small amounts of rubbing alcohol. Just be very careful not to drop more than a few drops at a time.
Where can I buy a keychain ring and chain?
If you have an old keychain you no longer use, you can also upcycle the ring and chain and use it for your Shrinky Dink keychain.
I love the colours of these shrinky dink keychains and it’s so cool that each one is unique! Make a keychain in school colours or in the colours of your favourite sports team. Or make a keychain as a gift for your best friend in their favourite colours!
Here’s even more fun craft ideas:
Sharpie Dyed Tile Coasters
Shrinky Dinks Powerpuff Girls Jewelry
Resin Keychain
Our book Low-Mess Crafts for Kids is loaded with 72 fun and simple craft ideas for kids! The projects are fun, easy and most importantly low-mess, so the clean up is simple!
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