How to Make Fake Blood That Dries

How to Make Fake Blood That Dries
Written By
Lauren Wise
Lauren Wise
Published: Jun 26, 2010
Updated: May 14, 2022
2 minute read

Things You'll Need:

Things You Will Need

  • Bowl
  • Mixing spoons
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
  • 3 or 4 tablespoon corn syrup
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red food coloring
  • 2 drops yellow or green food coloring (optional)
  • 2 containers
  • Spoon
  • Paintbrush
  • Kleenex
  • Fake blood has many uses, whether it is for costume make up for a holiday like Halloween, a theatre play or display. The key to a successful fake blood mixture is that it looks realistic and will dry properly so you don't get very messy when using it. This fake blood will take two to ten minutes to dry, depending on how thick you make it. As it dries, the mixture will cake to the skin just like real blood.

    Combine the cocoa powder with the water thoroughly, stirring until the powder is completely dissolved.

    Add the corn syrup and food coloring. The amount depends on the consistency and color you want from the fake blood. Adding more corn syrup will make it stickier and take longer to dry. Add the green or yellow food coloring with the red, if you want the fake blood to have a bruised look to it once it dries on skin. Combine all the ingredients and let the mixture sit for about five minutes after stirring.

    Skim any bubbles that have risen to the surface with a spoon and discard. Pour the mixture into a separate container. You can apply the blood right away, or let it sit for a long period of time. The longer it sits, the more cocoa settles on the bottom of the container, creating the effect of blood coagulating.

    Tips

    Drip, smear or run the fake blood wherever you want, such as on the corner of your mouth, neck, arms and other body parts. Splatter this mixture onto cloth with a paintbrush or a spray bottle to create bloodstains.

    Lauren Wise

    Lauren Wise has more than eight years' experience as a writer, editor, copywriter and columnist. She specializes in food, wine, music and pop culture. Her writing has appeared in various magazines, including "Runway," "A2Z," "Scottsdale…

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