Teaching Expertise

You may have heard of ugly holiday sweaters, but have you ever heard of ugly science lab coats? The concept is very similar, only that they include a host of science activities. This theme works well for all aged learners; right from elementary through high school and even college! Students may use these ideas for a science fair or science center project. Don’t forget to snap a few pictures to see who can produce the ugliest lab coat of all! 

1. T-Shirt Science Lab Coats

All students can look like awesome scientists! This fun craft invites students to transform a plain white t-shirt into a science lab coat using fabric markers. Students can customize their t-shirt lab coats however they’d like. You can also use button-down dress shirts if t-shirts are unavailable.

Learn more: More Time 2 Teach

2. Decorating with Patches

Science-themed patches can be ironed on to give your custom science lab coat a special touch! You can find these iron-on patches at craft supply stores or fabric shops. You can even do a science project about how the iron-on patches are applied using heat. 

Learn more: Amazon

3. Ugly Science Lab Coat Competition

There is nothing wrong with friendly competition among students. In fact, research shows that it’s beneficial! For this activity, students can compete class by class and students will cast a vote to see who can create the ugliest science lab coat. 

Learn more: Mind Champs

4. Marker Tie-Dye T-shirt Art

This is a fun ice-breaker activity that will help students learn about their peers. Students will each decorate a paper cutout of a t-shirt. This craft is also a science experiment because you will be mixing chemicals to give it a  tie-dye look. 

Learn more: Science Buddies

5. Homemade Slime or Goo

Students can really make their science lab coats ugly by making homemade slime or goo. This science activity sure is fun and all you’ll need is; custard powder, water, and a large mixing bowl. This is a great experiment for the science fair! 

Learn more: Whizz Pop Bang

6. Kool-Aid Puffy Paint Recipe

Are you ready to take your ugly lab coat to another level of fun? If so, check out these kitchen science experiment ideas for kids. You will need Kool-Aid packets, frosting creations, squeeze bottles, water, flour, salt, and a funnel. 

Learn more: Learn, Play, Imagine

7. Science Lab Safety Rules for Kids

The best scientists know how to stay safe in the science lab. It’s helpful for students to learn positive behavior in the lab to avoid injuries during science projects. Students can decorate their lab coats with science vocabulary and science lab safety tips.

Learn more: Science First

8. Science of Screen Printing

Students can create their favorite laboratory tech shirts with this awesome screen-printing kit. They can create several different science-related designs for their ugly science lab coats. Students can also look into the science behind the concept of screen printing. 

Learn more: MindWare

9. Famous Scientist Word Search

Children can wear their ugly science lab coats to complete a science word search about famous scientists. Students will look for famous names such as Darwin, Edison, Newton, and Einstein. This is beneficial for any science center or science review activity.

Learn more: All Free Printable

10. Science Lab at Home

Are you interested in setting up your own home science lab? If so, you may be interested in this online resource. You will need basic safety gear such as goggles, a lab coat or smock, and gloves. There are also recommended materials and equipment, including storage space, lighting, and ventilation.

Learn more: Science Explorers

11. DIY Pattern Lab Coat

This is a new take on putting together your own ugly science lab coat! You will use a men’s dress shirt for this activity. Look for a shirt pattern such as a robe, jacket, or small shirt that may be used as a child’s costume. Follow the step-by-step instructions with pictures to piece together your own.

Learn more: Parenting with Crunch