How do you make Invisible ink, its for Cub Scouts?

Question

My Webelos are working on their Comminication badge and one of the suggested activities is making invisible ink and I found out you use lemon juice on white paper, let it dry and view at a light bulb, a heat source, but this does not work, any other suggestions on how to make invisible ink and write a message on paper and have it appear at a later time?

Answer 1

The lemon juice method should work. I did it when I was a Webelos (decades ago). White vinegar works also.

The key is using white paper or 18 to 20 lb weight and using a Q-Tip or small paint brush to apply the ink. (See the reference below).

Another good way to develop the writing is to heat a cookie sheet in the oven and then place the paper on the sheet after the oven is turned off.

Answer 2

Try ironing the paper after the lemon juice has dried. Use "invisible ink" on your search engine, and you will get many different recipes. Look up the subject in Wikipedia.

Answer 3

Really, you use lemon juice on white paper, To make it visible heat the paper with a candle fire, however don't burn the paper!

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Answer 4

In addition to the lemon juice "ink", you can dip your pen in milk, let it dry, then "rub your dirty finger over it. You can also dip your pen in rice water. Let it dry and then put some iodine on it"

Answer 5

Yep lemon juice......

Then let it dry.....

and gentle warm thr back of the paper with a candle .....or iron and the writing will show its self....

Answer 6

lemon juice does work.