
Making with Microbes

Introduction
Ever wanted to make your own paper or plastic? Or create leather that doesn’t use animals? Why not try collaborating with microbes — tiny microscopic organisms — to design and grow a custom biomaterial at home! This biomaterial is made by the millions of living yeast and bacteria that normally work together to produce kombucha, a fermented tea. But, depending on what you feed your collaborators, they can also grow interesting and different pieces of biomaterial for you!
Design Challenge
Grow your own unique piece of biomaterial and make something creative with it!
Subject
Biology, Biodesign
Ages
8+
Time
Mix: 30 min | Grow: 1-3 weeks
Dry: 1-2 days | Create: 30 min
Key Concepts
Living systems, biomaterials, microbes, fermentation
This activity was made possible by a Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA), Grant Number R25 GM129220, from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Getting Started
Learn more with our videos
Learn more with our PDF guides

Making with Microbes Activity Guide
Follow this guide to use living microbes to grow a unique biomaterial!

Making with Microbes Essential Questions
Get answers to some of the sticky questions frequently asked by adults.

Making with Microbes Care and Feeding
The inside scoop on how to help your microbes be happy and grow well!

Making with Microbes Suncatchers
Ideas to customize your biomaterial so that it shines in the sun.