How to make squishies

What is Squishy and Taba Squishy?

Squishy is a flexible, soft, squeezable toy or decoration, popular for its pleasant touch and relaxing effect. It is often made in cute shapes – such as paws, figures, hearts, and similar.

Taba Squishy is the most popular type of squishy toy because it has a slightly sticky surface, which adds another fun feature to playing with it.

Why make your own squishy?

Making your own squishy brings several benefits:

• You can freely choose the shape, colors, layers, and decorations according to your taste.
• It is a creative and relaxing process — creating something of your own feels more rewarding than buying a ready-made piece.
• Squeezing has positive effects on improving concentration, reducing stress and tension, and developing fine motor skills. Plus, it’s fun and soothing for our senses.

In this tutorial we use the two-component Taba Squishy Gel, which works in a 1:1 ratio and allows adding colors, glitter, or layering.

Tutorial: How to make a squishy step by step

1. Preparing the workspace and tools

• Prepare a clean work surface, preferably covered with plastic or paper.
• You will need a silicone mold, petroleum jelly, squishy gel, mixing cups, scales or a measuring cup, spatulas, a stick or toothpick, and gloves.
• You can buy the supplies individually, or get one of the complete starter kits.

Hamster Kit

2. Preparing the mold

• Thoroughly clean the mold.
• Apply a very thin layer of petroleum jelly into all creases and edges to prevent the gel from sticking to the mold. The layer must be smooth and even. We recommend applying with a cotton swab and then smoothing with a gloved hand so the layer is thin and uniform without fingerprints.

3. Measuring both gel components

• The mixing ratio is stated on the gel packaging, most often 1:1, but check before mixing.
• Measure equal amounts of component A and B by weight or volume. We recommend weighing for accuracy so the squishy cures properly. Pour in one component first, then the other.

4. Mixing the components

• Stir slowly and thoroughly for 3–5 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom. Avoid creating bubbles.

• After mixing, you can add color or glitter – but only in small amounts so the gel doesn’t become too diluted. For powder colors, use just the tip of a spatula; for liquid colors, 2–3 drops depending on the amount of gel.

5. Pouring into the mold

• Immediately after mixing, pour the gel into the prepared mold.
• Gently tap the mold on the table to release bubbles.

• You can add a little glitter.

• You can also pour in two different colored gels at once; they will partially mix on their own.

6. Layers

If you want to make a multicolored casting with separated colors, mix only enough gel for the first layer and pour it into the mold. Prepare a toothpick and keep checking the surface. Once a firmer film forms that sticks to the toothpick and lifts up when you raise it, it’s time to mix and pour the second layer. With correct timing, the two layers will bond together.

7. Curing and demolding

• Let the gel cure for about 2–3 hours.
• Then soak the mold in water with dish soap and carefully start releasing the casting. Do not use sharp tools.
• Release the casting by gently peeling it from the sides, then press the mold from the back and gradually release it from the bottom. 

• After demolding, gently wash the squishy in soapy water and let it dry. Do not use paper or fabric towels, so fibers don’t stick to the squishy.

8. Surface finishing and decoration

• If you want to recolor the casting, we recommend mixing a small amount of gel, tinting it, and painting details with it (this may need to be repeated for stronger shades). This is the most durable method. You can also use acrylic paints, eyeshadows, or mica powders. However, this is less durable and the color may need to be renewed over time. 
• You can coat the casting with flocking powder included in the set. You can sprinkle it on, dip the casting gradually, or apply it in a thin layer with a brush.

• You can play with the casting as it is, but it may get damaged or dirty more quickly. We recommend putting it into a zip bag. If you insert a squishy without flocking powder, it may be a bit difficult. You can make it easier by inserting it under water. Then leave the bag open for several hours to dry completely.
• Add glitter, beads, or other decorative elements into the bag.

 You can also watch how the paw from the set is made in this video: