How to Dye Rice With Food Coloring

Rice dyed with food coloring is a safe and nontoxic alternative to colored sand and glitter. It can be used similarly in craft projects, and easily adheres with all-purpose glue or paste. This recipe yields approximately 4 oz., or 1/2 cup, of dyed rice. However, it can be repeated as many times as necessary to make as many different colors as you desire.

Instructions

1

Pour 1/4 cup of undiluted white vinegar into a clean, empty wide-mouth jar. Add three or four drops of the food coloring of your choice, and stir to combine.

2

Pour 1/2 cup of uncooked white rice into the jar containing the colored vinegar. Seal the lid as tightly as possible.

3

Shake the jar vigorously until all of the rice appears to be dyed evenly. Place the jar on a flat surface, and allow it to sit undisturbed for about five minutes.

4

Pour the contents of the jar through a fine sieve over the sink to drain out the colored water. Spread the rice in a single layer on large sheets of old newspaper. Place it in a sunny location to dry for at least 30 minutes, or until no more moisture remains.

5

Store the dry dyed rice in a zipper lock sandwich bag or an airtight plastic container. Repeat the process to make additional colors. Use the dyed rice in craft projects.