How To Fix Over Activated Fluffy Slime

SOS: Save Our Slime! Slime First Aid

18 May 2018

So, you're pretty sure you've followed the instructions for making perfect slime, but something just isn't right about it. Is it gloopy when it should be gooey? Does it splodge when it should stick? Is it stringy instead of spongey? Is it more watery than wobbly? Or does it splat when it should stretch?

Never fear! Here are some handy fixes to turn failed slime into fabulous slime!

Model Slime

First, what does good slime look like? It should look smooth and springy, and act like one cohesive single piece. When you pick it up, you should get most of the slime lifting up all together in one big glob, not breaking into smaller pieces, getting stringy or breaking apart easily.

Let's look at some of the things that can go wrong when you're making slime, what causes the problems and how you can fix them!

Problem: My slime is a watery, gooey mess that slips and slides all over the place!

Diagnosis: You may have used too much liquid starch.

Fix: First, pour off any excess liquid starch. Next, you will need to add more glue to mixture. Slowly add two tablespoons of glue at a time to the slime mix, stirring it as you go. The slime should eventually start coming together and holding its shape; once it does, start kneading the mixture for a few minutes until your slime is ready!

Problem: My slime is too runny and stringy, and super-dooper sticky!

Diagnosis: You may not have used enough liquid starch.

Fix: Gradually add more liquid starch, about a tablespoon at a time. Stir it together thoroughly before adding more starch. As you stir it into the slime mixture, you should see that the slime is looking less stringy and isn't as sticky. Once you're happy with the consistency, you must knead it before you can use it. Try kneading the slime mixture for a couple of minutes or so.

Problem: My slime looks like soup!

Diagnosis: You may have used the wrong type of glue.

Fix: You can't make slime with just any old glue! Make sure you choose a glue made from PVA (polyvinyl acetate). Some people think that white PVA glue is the best sort of glue for making slime, not clear glue. Why not try a few different brands and varieties of PVA glue to see what works the best for you?

Problem: My slime is too stringy!

Diagnosis: You may not have kneaded your slime enough.

Fix: Once your slime starts to come together, you must knead it for a few minutes to get the right consistency. Try to keep the slime warm and moving in your hands and stretch it out gently. If it's still stringy, sometimes it helps to rest it for a few minutes and then try kneading it again.

Problem: The slime is just not coming together at all!

Diagnosis: You may have used incorrect quantities when measuring out your ingredients or not followed the instructions correctly.

Fix: You might need to start again! Slime can be tricky to make, and it's really important to follow the quantities as set out in the instructions. Chalk it up to experience, dispose of the slime carefully and try again with a new batch of ingredients.

Don't forget to store your slime safely, away from inquisitive small children. An airtight container or a completely sealed zip-lock bag are other ways you can store your slime and keep it from drying out.

Enjoy your slime and have fun making (and fixing) it!