Beat the out-of-school boredom with a summer science project using magnets that will keep your kids occupied while promoting valuable learning opportunities. When you think of common uses for magnets, what comes to mind? Many immediately gravitate towards the photo magnets hanging on their fridge, jewelry clasps, cabinet doors, etc. Magnets, however, offer a nearly unlimited variety of applications, both fun and functional.  Most often used in the form of a magnetic ink character recognition line (MICR), magnetic ink serves as a powerful tool to verify the legitimacy/originality of official documents by financial institutions and government agencies. While the practical uses of magnetic ink are relatively exclusive, a simplified DIY version of this incredible ink can provide hours of educational entertainment. Today, we’re going to show you how to make your own homemade magnetic ink in minutes with just a few ingredients.  Supplies: 
  • Laser jet toner
  • Vegetable oil
  • A Rare Earth magnet (cylinder magnets work well) 
What to do: 
  1. Pour 50 ml of laser jet toner in a glass jar
  2. Add approximately 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil 
  3. Stir mixture until you obtain a nice thin consistency (add more vegetable oil if the mixture is too thick)
  4. Remember you may need to stir your mixture again during your experiments
Your magnetic ink is now ready to test! To begin, hold your Rare Earth magnet up to the glass jar and observe the effects. If your magnet is strong enough, you will see the ink inside magnetize and follow the magnet wherever you lead. Next, put on a pair of gloves and experiment with pouring a small amount of ink on a covered table and holding your magnet directly against the underside of the table to guide the liquid. You may also place your magnet directly in the ink and watch as the ink covers the magnet, occupying the entire field. Finally, when you are finished with your experiments, place your magnetic ink in an airtight container (old spice bottles work well), and dispose of it via your regular trash service. We recommend you dispose of your magnetic ink within 72 hours. 

Start Your Next DIY Project with Apex Magnets

If you enjoyed this DIY magnetic project, visit our blog for more fun-filled ideas for you and the whole family to try. And don’t forget to check out our website for all of your magnetic needs.  Feeling inspired? Show off your magnetic creations or household hacks on our Facebook page! We may include you and your idea in our next blog!