Magnetic Putty

Magnet Science

Adding an iron based compound to putty makes it magnetic. The secret ingredient that makes the putty magnetic is an iron oxide powder, which is ferric (magnetic). Ferric iron oxide is a fine powder used as black pigment and can be found at art stores. If your local artist supply store doesn’t carry it, you can always purchase it online.

Protect all work surfaces and make sure it doesn’t touch fabric.

If you place the magnet inside the ball of putty, the whole blob will become magnetic.

Place your magnet next to the ball of putty, but not touching it. Gradually the putty will move toward the magnet. Given enough time, the putty will begin to climb over the magnet.

You Will Need:

Disposable Gloves
Disposable Face Mask
Paper Plates
Silly Putty
Black Iron Oxide Powder
Neodymium Magnet

What to Do:

1. Protect the work surface. Put on gloves and face mask before you begin.

2. Open the silky putty and remove from the container. Work the putty in your hands a little to warm it up, then stretch it out like a sheet and lay it on your disposable work surface (sheet of paper or paper plate).

3. Carefully spoon about a tablespoon of the iron oxide into center of putty sheet, then close lid on iron oxide powder to reduce excess iron dust escaping. You require more or less depending on your putty size and amount of magnitism desired.

4. Gently fold edges of putty sheet into center and work the powder into the putty. Go slow, the powder produces lots of dust.

5. After a minute of massaging the putty it will begin to look black. Keep massaging putty for about 3-4 minutes.

References:

Instructables Website