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Japanese Are Polishing Foil Balls To Perfection, And The Result Is Too Satisfying
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Japanese Are Polishing Foil Balls To Perfection, And The Result Is Too Satisfying

This Is A Thing In Japan NowSo This Is A Thing In Japan And It's A Million Times Better Than The Tide-Pod Trend Japanese People Are Creating Balls Using Tin Foil And The End Result Looks Too GoodJapanese Are Polishing Foil Balls To Perfection, And The Result Is Too SatisfyingThis Is A Thing In Japan Right Now, And The Result Is Too SatisfyingThis Is A Thing In Japan Now And, It's A Million Times Better Than The Tide-Pod TrendPolishing Foil Balls To Perfection Is A Thing In Japan Now, And The Result Is Too SatisfyingJapanese Are Polishing Foil Balls To Perfection, And The Result Is Too SatisfyingJapanese Are Polishing Foil Balls To Perfection, And The Result Is Too SatisfyingJapanese Are Polishing Foil Balls To Perfection, And The Result Is Too Satisfying
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Not only Japanese culture is absolutely nothing like we have in the West, but their creativity concerning pastimes and DIY projects might also look quite strange to us. This time the Japanese came up with an idea to turn boring aluminum foil into something beautiful. The tin foil itself is surely nothing exciting – It is used for packaging, insulation, cooking… and making really shiny aluminum foil balls that appear to have no real purpose, apparently. That’s right, thanks to a Japanese jeweler, the whole country became obsessed with refining these metal leaves to perfectly shiny tin foil balls, and we aren’t sure how to react.

According to Twitter user @puchuco709, they took a whole 16-meter (52-feet) long roll of the federal government brainwashing-blocking material and started abusing it – hammering, polishing it. After probably a gazillion repeats, the tin foil ball was finished. People instantly fell in love with this low-budget DIY foil ball project, flooding Japanese social media with their very own versions. Can you think of a use for these Japanese foil balls? Let us know in the comments!

It all starts with an aluminum foil ball like this one:

Image credits: sekaiminzoku

Then, with incredible amounts of determination…

Image credits: skytomo

Image credits: sekaiminzoku

…lots and lots of repeating the same tedious task…

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Image credits: skytomo

Image credits: tomooo.25

…and hours of polishing to perfection…

Image credits: skytomo

Image credits: sekaiminzoku

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Image credits: skytomo

It turns into something like this!

Image credits: sekaiminzoku

Image credits: skytomo

People instantly fell in love with this low-budget DIY project

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Image credits: skytomo

Image credits: sekaiminzoku

Flooding Japanese social media with their very own versions

Image credits: sekaiminzoku

Image credits: puchuco709

Here’s what people had to say about the trend:

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Rokas Laurinavičius

Rokas Laurinavičius

Author, BoredPanda staff

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Rokas is a writer at Bored Panda with a BA in Communication. After working for a sculptor, he fell in love with visual storytelling and enjoys covering everything from TV shows (any Sopranos fans out there?) to photography. Throughout his years in Bored Panda, over 300 million people have read the posts he's written, which is probably more than he could count to.

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Rokas Laurinavičius

Rokas Laurinavičius

Author, BoredPanda staff

Rokas is a writer at Bored Panda with a BA in Communication. After working for a sculptor, he fell in love with visual storytelling and enjoys covering everything from TV shows (any Sopranos fans out there?) to photography. Throughout his years in Bored Panda, over 300 million people have read the posts he's written, which is probably more than he could count to.

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Ego
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I like how Japanese fads are literally art while American fads tend to be incredibly stupid and oftentimes deadly.

weatherwitch
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This actually is a form of meditation. The focus and repetitive movements all create a deep calm and serenity for those inclined to do this. It's the same for any creative art, painting, woodwork, sewing, etc. I'm going to have a go but I bet mine will be nothing like the ones pictured above 😄

Sree S
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow that's cool!! I remember I had an obsession of making these, but I never knew you could actually make a perfect ball out of them. Looks like it's time for me to get on with it then...

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Sophster
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I almost went for the tin foil but realized I could clean the house for a year with the same amount of effort so meh never mind, to both ;p

Jason Hampel
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

30 years ago when I was a teenager we used to do this with the foil from cigarette packs that were emptied by parents and grandparents that smoked. Peel the paper off the foil, then roll the foil into a ball and then keep adding foil and keep rolling it to a mirror finish. The ball just kept getting bigger and bigger.

Dana Patterson
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I came here to add this! Glad I wasn't the only weirdo collecting cigarette foil as a kid :P

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Pamela
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

At first I was like " but why " but then the last pictures with the amazingly perfect tinfoil balls, it makes sense. So soothing, and I'm sure a level of achievement is reached getting it to look so perfect !!

Kenny Kulbiski
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I saw the first picture and thought " finally, something artistic I can do. " Then I kept scrolling and came crashing back to earth. C**p, I still haven't got any talent.

Rafaella Bueno
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Art is technique and patience, not talent. If you stop to learn how they do it and then take the time to reproduce it, you can do it too. The hard part is not giving up half way through.

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Jef Bateman
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What would happen if those used that foil that Hershey's Kisses come in? I imagine the color would flake off in the process, but if not it might have a cool rainbowy effect.

Flock O’ Nguyen
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i'm two hours into this project and it is much harder than you think. i'm wearing gloves and a mask so i don't inhale the dust. you need a bunch of dedication, but it is a good past time. it gives you a focus that blanks you out from reality. i probably need two more days to finish this

T W
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Jacob12jr "When creating internet fads, Japanese teenagers create something that approaches perfection, excellence. They create only with their bare hands, ingenuity and hard work. Americans eat soap." I'm laughing so hard I'm literally crying right now.

Alia G.
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I really want to try this now!! I probably don’t have the patience though...

Alia G.
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I actually tried it today, turned into an egg shape, then a jellybean then something kind of like a cube... Oh well

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Virgil Blue
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Phantasm flashbacks over here. I expect the end results of tis could sprout prongs and start chacing people ny moment now. But a cool idea and kudos to people with thus much determination.

Shiloh X
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I made one to the second level but then someone accidentally stepped on it... 😭😭😭

stellermatt
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i tried this, but forgot to take my lunch out first, so... anybody want a really shiny perfectly spherical tuna sandwich?

A.R.
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think it's pretty cool. If you want to take all that time and effort into it, why not do it? The end results are totally worth it. There is something so amazing about a perfect orb, esp. one that is shiny and reflective like these are. I actually collect stone/or glass orbs myself. All in different sizes too and display them and little pedestals. I have one made of crystal and it's the size of a grapefruit. It's like a crystal ball and it looks so beautiful under a lamp. Maybe I will have a go at making my own tin foil ball!

Jude
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If anyone is serious about making one, I have a tip that will make it easier to get a evenly spherical shape. I used to crumple up a ball of aluminum foil to use in the dryer. As the foil bounces around, hitting the dryer walls, it gets more and more compact and nicely spherical. Trouble is, it starts to break into bits so I decided to stuff the ball into the toe end of some old panty hose, pulled it snug and tied it with twine. ---- When I saw this article, I got my 'dryer ball' out and cut the pantyhose off and found I had a tight hard round ball with no bits broken off. I'm planning on using it to continue my try at the polished ball. Tested a hammer on it and it can still be compressed more but it's pretty hard already. --- If you try this trick, make sure you pull the fine nylon mesh tight. Use a knot that won't come undone and when the cut the extra hose off, leave a couple of inches past the knot to make extra sure it doesn't come apart.

KismetTheFox
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Japanese: we make balls perfectly rounded out of a five cent foil, what do you do? Americans: we snort condoms and eat TidePods for fun.

Plumpapollo
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Japanese people do the same thing with mud, polishing it to unbelievable levels. Its called the art of hikaru dorodango, and involves adding layers of dirt to a ball of mud, and then polishing it.

Trixster Million
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've been polishing my balls for years yet they're not nearly as shiny.

Anne Lanham
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is mad, a good kind of mad but still... I love the Japanese. They're off the wall but impressive at the same time!

John Louis
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I refuse to acknowledge that beautiful craftsman projects are ever a "waste of time," or "harmless past times" This is an amazing, intelligent, innovative, creative and self improving pursuit. We should all find such an activity.

Sarah White
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Eh, who cares about the meaning behind it? Personally, an Internet trend is an Internet trend and this one just happens to be really really cool! If I had the materials and energy I would love to do this!

The Frog
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I used to do summin similar when I was small.. not to the extreme, but always wanted my foil ball to be smooth

Mr Freeze
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One Japanese dude made a foil ball and it becomes something ALL JAPANESE people do. Right.

Rohan Khan
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The idea of a smart forward thinking society and a culture that represents integrity and quality was such an amazing thing to hold onto.... Until I lived in Tokyo. I envy the fans Of Japan that have never lived in Japan!

Sodom
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Theres actually an easier way to it ^^ just didnt find the video to it again :/

戸塚友
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hi, I produced very real "Japanese Foil Ball Challenge" game. If you like it, please up video. Thanks! iOS:https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/japanese-foil-ball-challenge/id1373147210?l=ja&ls=1&mt=8 Android:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.uuum.alumiball

Krazzy 4 DIY
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Watch me take up this Challenge.. And also this is a challenge for all the patient DIYers.. Can you turn this ordinary material into something special?? https://youtu.be/TwFkYZfhyxo

Joe Frederick
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow! A nation with everything and nothing left to do but inane silliness as they crouch in their very tiny apartments waiting for Godot.

Lesley Walker
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NOT VEY GOOD FOR YOU HANDLING THEM,ABSORBING TOXIC ALLY INTO YOUR SKIN.MAYBE THEY CAN BE USED AS RADIATION SHIELD BUT BETTER TO USE NEODINIUM MAGNETS!

mewmew34
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm not sure what I'd do with a ball of foil, but I kinda want one.

Beck Warn
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Was wondering what the point of this is but thanks to the comments I have a better understanding. Looks like fun

Jim Kissaglis
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

ball up your easter egg foil and rub it on a work top. (not your mums fancy table) shins up quick.

endelbendel
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good way for college sophmores to kill time. When i was, learned to excell at knibbling.

Martha Riche
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I get pretty much the same result from putting aluminum foil balls in my dryer. Cuts down on static plus I get homemade 'marbles' of foil!

Karen Chalmers
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It kind of reminds me of the cigarette foil papers that some people used to save [remove the tissue backing]& roll into a tight ball looking much the same...for paperweight

_WEIRD_ONE_
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

would it still be squishable?! also please tell me how!?!??!?!!!!

Linda Karner
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Use?!? YES!!!! Dryer balls. I put the crumpled version in my dryer to eliminate static cling, can't imagine how long these polished beauties will last. (My crumpled ones last about a month...)

maki midnight
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Since its done by japanese and all i suddenly remembered the rice balls made by misaki from maid sama and also hikari from special A 🤣🤣

Heather Bertine
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This looks a little easier than polishing mud. ;D I did this to the point of about the third picture but I had no idea they could actually get SHINY, so I'm doing it again!

Raven
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The Japanese create amazing DIYs. The americans eat cinnamon and tide pods.

Rachel Rosky
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The Japanese didn't just "invent" this, its been around a while, I remember making these in middle school art class and that was in the early 90's, but its been a thing since before then.

L L
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Am wondering how long it takes to fashion one shiny aluminum ball.

David Starr
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

American. Hold my beer. Let me get my blow torch. 10 minutes later. Molten ball of Aluminum foil.

Jim Swineheart
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

not really a "new" idea. see http://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/index.ssf/2012/11/ball_of_29000_gum_wrappers_rem.html

Jim Swineheart
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

not so new. see http://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/index.ssf/2012/11/ball_of_29000_gum_wrappers_rem.html

Marilyn Guinnane
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't know about aluminum balls, but I do know that the Japanese are some of the finest people on the planet. I spent a lot of time in Japan, and have often commented that all the cultures would emulate the Japanese culture, we would have a perfect world.

Kim Mick
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've seen something similar to this, but mud was used. Either way, very impressive!

I_AMAFACE
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i tried to do this without polish and it looked kinda weird

Neha
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There is also something very similar but with mud called dorodango

Caroline Driver
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well, I guess it's just taking a metal that has been beaten and stretched into a very thin sheet and turning it back into a lump of metal again! I can see RSI setting in if I tried it. But looks pretty

Merri Tan
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Cool! Now make another 20 for Christmas tree this year end.

Alberto
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

French do it better :D https://www.petanqueshop.com/boules-de-petanque.html

Crystal Aukema
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Omg my dad and I used to do this when I was a kid with the foil from the old cigarette packs lol this is going back 20+ years ago tho

floof lover
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Tried it, forgot how pathetic my joints are. Currently in a wrist brace with an ace bandage on my elbow

Bunzilla
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I kinda want to do this. Something I could do while surfing the net and watching Youtube / Netflix. But I wonder if I'd get yelled at for wasting foil >__>

Sally Vogel
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I know I’m a spoil sport, but I look at everything from an environmental viewpoint and this looks like a big waste of resources....water, electricity ( in the refining process) not to mention aluminum. It’s your future —-or not—kids.

Crappy Annoying Google-
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We used to do this back in the 70's, before the internet. A old urban legend would pop up every once in a while where aluminum was "rare" and metal companies were paying top dollar ($20 to $80 depending on the story at the time). We would start saving the foil from cigarette packs and make them into balls. We'd take the paper off the foil with a lighter, gently running the flame across the underside to lift the paper off to get the "pure" foil. If you burned the paper it would stick to the foil and not stick to the ball! Mine was about the size of a baseball when my Dad showed me a newspaper clipping exposing the truth: the whole thing was a hoax! Awwww!

Sam Leigh
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The finished item is stupidly amazing but I’m afraid I went from First I Age (yeah so an aluminium ball jumped to “oh a candle” to “oh wow pretty’ final image. Nope would not have the patience. But I do see someone making money put of selling kits (hammer included) to make these items.

Cookie
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is asinine. Aluminium is toxic. Polishing it releases a fine dust which you will inhale. Alzheimer's and dementia are just a few of the diseases caused by aluminium poisoning. (Yes, it's just as bad if you eat it.)

Jack Urquhart
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

ART? What are you left with? A ball of aluminum foil. You could do this with cow pies. Dry thoroughly and compress into s sold circular shape. Shave uneven bits. Use sandpaper. And what have you got after all your hours or work? A useless ball of pooh.

pret atva
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow and you developed countries outsource sewing jobs to countries like Bangladesh. Because sewing is repeative and boring..oh the psychology.

Brandy Cannon
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

..... I been doing this since I was three.....with tiny pieces, this really isn't new.....

David Starr
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

America.. Hold my beer. Let me get my blow torch. 10 minutes later. Molten ball of aluminum.

Hawk
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And then we are like, I wonder what would happen if we destroyed it!

Uni N
Community Member
6 years ago

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Wow so much dedication if me i'll give up after 10 min hmm... should i buy aluminum foil o.O

A S Koziol
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Maybe that's part of the point, it's not immediate gratification, and it's something done for you to enjoy after all of the hard work because you know the time and dedication you put into it.

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Laurie Smith
Community Member
6 years ago

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Actually, American teenagers are marching and speaking up to make a difference in their own safety and the safety of all school children. One American teenager just shut down a TV bigot for a week by speaking up. That is hardly "eating Tide pod", and its a lot more productive than obsessively polishing aluminum.

Gabby D
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You're comparing two different things though. The aluminium ball vs tide pod comments compared two hobbies (although I agree it's unfair to dismiss the achievements of American teenagers). You're comparing a hobby with political activism - the two aren't comparable. It's like saying Person A is a great artist whilst Person B forgot to replace the toilet roll. Both may be true but the comparison doesn't actually mean anything.

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Bella
Community Member
6 years ago

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Just sounds to me that they have too much time on their hands. I actually did this back in the 90's! So I actually would have been the first but recording things weren't my thing. I wish I have now lol

Becky Neale
Community Member
6 years ago

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And Aluminium is poisonous and the way these are created means a big fat does of Aluminium through your skin. Yeah the results look cool but at the cost its not worth it. To be honest this fad is not that far away from eating the soap.

Aunt Messy
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's what gloves are for. You can buy a package of 50 or 100 vinyl gloves for under $10.00.

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David Fronval
Community Member
6 years ago

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I think that they should get into romantic relationships and start making babies instead of polishing their balls. Japan's birth rate is 1.41 child per female inhabitants. A catastrophe waiting to happen

trasnik
Community Member
6 years ago

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My every lunch sandwich foil looks like that... pfff

Melody Lanzatella
Community Member
6 years ago

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I do agree that it is WAY less stupid than American kids' fads, but still...WHY?????

Becky Neale
Community Member
6 years ago

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And Aluminium is poisonous and people will be absorbing it through their skin creating these. Yeah , they might look cool but making these is on a par with eating soap

Phillip Moderow
Community Member
6 years ago

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Amazing, yes. But so is training fleas which is about as useless a waste of time and talent.

Kizito
Community Member
6 years ago

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Easy to tell when a man still has his virginity.

Phillip Moderow
Community Member
6 years ago

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Amazing, yes. But about as useless as training fleas.

Andrea Dickinson
Community Member
6 years ago

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F**k it, it take it a these people don't have a stinking mountain of sports kit/underpants/socks on their bedroom floor and as many cups/ glasses and plates, or an actual job, how has a proper adult ever got the time or patience to do this...

Wolfik
Community Member
6 years ago

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Cool but not so healthy because molecules of aluminum get into your body and it's toxic.

Ego
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I like how Japanese fads are literally art while American fads tend to be incredibly stupid and oftentimes deadly.

weatherwitch
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This actually is a form of meditation. The focus and repetitive movements all create a deep calm and serenity for those inclined to do this. It's the same for any creative art, painting, woodwork, sewing, etc. I'm going to have a go but I bet mine will be nothing like the ones pictured above 😄

Sree S
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow that's cool!! I remember I had an obsession of making these, but I never knew you could actually make a perfect ball out of them. Looks like it's time for me to get on with it then...

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Sophster
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I almost went for the tin foil but realized I could clean the house for a year with the same amount of effort so meh never mind, to both ;p

Jason Hampel
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

30 years ago when I was a teenager we used to do this with the foil from cigarette packs that were emptied by parents and grandparents that smoked. Peel the paper off the foil, then roll the foil into a ball and then keep adding foil and keep rolling it to a mirror finish. The ball just kept getting bigger and bigger.

Dana Patterson
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I came here to add this! Glad I wasn't the only weirdo collecting cigarette foil as a kid :P

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Pamela
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

At first I was like " but why " but then the last pictures with the amazingly perfect tinfoil balls, it makes sense. So soothing, and I'm sure a level of achievement is reached getting it to look so perfect !!

Kenny Kulbiski
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I saw the first picture and thought " finally, something artistic I can do. " Then I kept scrolling and came crashing back to earth. C**p, I still haven't got any talent.

Rafaella Bueno
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Art is technique and patience, not talent. If you stop to learn how they do it and then take the time to reproduce it, you can do it too. The hard part is not giving up half way through.

Load More Replies...
Jef Bateman
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What would happen if those used that foil that Hershey's Kisses come in? I imagine the color would flake off in the process, but if not it might have a cool rainbowy effect.

Flock O’ Nguyen
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i'm two hours into this project and it is much harder than you think. i'm wearing gloves and a mask so i don't inhale the dust. you need a bunch of dedication, but it is a good past time. it gives you a focus that blanks you out from reality. i probably need two more days to finish this

T W
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Jacob12jr "When creating internet fads, Japanese teenagers create something that approaches perfection, excellence. They create only with their bare hands, ingenuity and hard work. Americans eat soap." I'm laughing so hard I'm literally crying right now.

Alia G.
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I really want to try this now!! I probably don’t have the patience though...

Alia G.
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I actually tried it today, turned into an egg shape, then a jellybean then something kind of like a cube... Oh well

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Virgil Blue
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Phantasm flashbacks over here. I expect the end results of tis could sprout prongs and start chacing people ny moment now. But a cool idea and kudos to people with thus much determination.

Shiloh X
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I made one to the second level but then someone accidentally stepped on it... 😭😭😭

stellermatt
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i tried this, but forgot to take my lunch out first, so... anybody want a really shiny perfectly spherical tuna sandwich?

A.R.
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think it's pretty cool. If you want to take all that time and effort into it, why not do it? The end results are totally worth it. There is something so amazing about a perfect orb, esp. one that is shiny and reflective like these are. I actually collect stone/or glass orbs myself. All in different sizes too and display them and little pedestals. I have one made of crystal and it's the size of a grapefruit. It's like a crystal ball and it looks so beautiful under a lamp. Maybe I will have a go at making my own tin foil ball!

Jude
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If anyone is serious about making one, I have a tip that will make it easier to get a evenly spherical shape. I used to crumple up a ball of aluminum foil to use in the dryer. As the foil bounces around, hitting the dryer walls, it gets more and more compact and nicely spherical. Trouble is, it starts to break into bits so I decided to stuff the ball into the toe end of some old panty hose, pulled it snug and tied it with twine. ---- When I saw this article, I got my 'dryer ball' out and cut the pantyhose off and found I had a tight hard round ball with no bits broken off. I'm planning on using it to continue my try at the polished ball. Tested a hammer on it and it can still be compressed more but it's pretty hard already. --- If you try this trick, make sure you pull the fine nylon mesh tight. Use a knot that won't come undone and when the cut the extra hose off, leave a couple of inches past the knot to make extra sure it doesn't come apart.

KismetTheFox
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Japanese: we make balls perfectly rounded out of a five cent foil, what do you do? Americans: we snort condoms and eat TidePods for fun.

Plumpapollo
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Japanese people do the same thing with mud, polishing it to unbelievable levels. Its called the art of hikaru dorodango, and involves adding layers of dirt to a ball of mud, and then polishing it.

Trixster Million
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've been polishing my balls for years yet they're not nearly as shiny.

Anne Lanham
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is mad, a good kind of mad but still... I love the Japanese. They're off the wall but impressive at the same time!

John Louis
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I refuse to acknowledge that beautiful craftsman projects are ever a "waste of time," or "harmless past times" This is an amazing, intelligent, innovative, creative and self improving pursuit. We should all find such an activity.

Sarah White
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Eh, who cares about the meaning behind it? Personally, an Internet trend is an Internet trend and this one just happens to be really really cool! If I had the materials and energy I would love to do this!

The Frog
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I used to do summin similar when I was small.. not to the extreme, but always wanted my foil ball to be smooth

Mr Freeze
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One Japanese dude made a foil ball and it becomes something ALL JAPANESE people do. Right.

Rohan Khan
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The idea of a smart forward thinking society and a culture that represents integrity and quality was such an amazing thing to hold onto.... Until I lived in Tokyo. I envy the fans Of Japan that have never lived in Japan!

Sodom
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Theres actually an easier way to it ^^ just didnt find the video to it again :/

戸塚友
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hi, I produced very real "Japanese Foil Ball Challenge" game. If you like it, please up video. Thanks! iOS:https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/japanese-foil-ball-challenge/id1373147210?l=ja&ls=1&mt=8 Android:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.uuum.alumiball

Krazzy 4 DIY
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Watch me take up this Challenge.. And also this is a challenge for all the patient DIYers.. Can you turn this ordinary material into something special?? https://youtu.be/TwFkYZfhyxo

Joe Frederick
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow! A nation with everything and nothing left to do but inane silliness as they crouch in their very tiny apartments waiting for Godot.

Lesley Walker
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NOT VEY GOOD FOR YOU HANDLING THEM,ABSORBING TOXIC ALLY INTO YOUR SKIN.MAYBE THEY CAN BE USED AS RADIATION SHIELD BUT BETTER TO USE NEODINIUM MAGNETS!

mewmew34
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm not sure what I'd do with a ball of foil, but I kinda want one.

Beck Warn
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Was wondering what the point of this is but thanks to the comments I have a better understanding. Looks like fun

Jim Kissaglis
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

ball up your easter egg foil and rub it on a work top. (not your mums fancy table) shins up quick.

endelbendel
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good way for college sophmores to kill time. When i was, learned to excell at knibbling.

Martha Riche
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I get pretty much the same result from putting aluminum foil balls in my dryer. Cuts down on static plus I get homemade 'marbles' of foil!

Karen Chalmers
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It kind of reminds me of the cigarette foil papers that some people used to save [remove the tissue backing]& roll into a tight ball looking much the same...for paperweight

_WEIRD_ONE_
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

would it still be squishable?! also please tell me how!?!??!?!!!!

Linda Karner
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Use?!? YES!!!! Dryer balls. I put the crumpled version in my dryer to eliminate static cling, can't imagine how long these polished beauties will last. (My crumpled ones last about a month...)

maki midnight
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Since its done by japanese and all i suddenly remembered the rice balls made by misaki from maid sama and also hikari from special A 🤣🤣

Heather Bertine
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This looks a little easier than polishing mud. ;D I did this to the point of about the third picture but I had no idea they could actually get SHINY, so I'm doing it again!

Raven
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The Japanese create amazing DIYs. The americans eat cinnamon and tide pods.

Rachel Rosky
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The Japanese didn't just "invent" this, its been around a while, I remember making these in middle school art class and that was in the early 90's, but its been a thing since before then.

L L
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Am wondering how long it takes to fashion one shiny aluminum ball.

David Starr
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

American. Hold my beer. Let me get my blow torch. 10 minutes later. Molten ball of Aluminum foil.

Jim Swineheart
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

not really a "new" idea. see http://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/index.ssf/2012/11/ball_of_29000_gum_wrappers_rem.html

Jim Swineheart
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

not so new. see http://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/index.ssf/2012/11/ball_of_29000_gum_wrappers_rem.html

Marilyn Guinnane
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't know about aluminum balls, but I do know that the Japanese are some of the finest people on the planet. I spent a lot of time in Japan, and have often commented that all the cultures would emulate the Japanese culture, we would have a perfect world.

Kim Mick
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've seen something similar to this, but mud was used. Either way, very impressive!

I_AMAFACE
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i tried to do this without polish and it looked kinda weird

Neha
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There is also something very similar but with mud called dorodango

Caroline Driver
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well, I guess it's just taking a metal that has been beaten and stretched into a very thin sheet and turning it back into a lump of metal again! I can see RSI setting in if I tried it. But looks pretty

Merri Tan
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Cool! Now make another 20 for Christmas tree this year end.

Alberto
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

French do it better :D https://www.petanqueshop.com/boules-de-petanque.html

Crystal Aukema
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Omg my dad and I used to do this when I was a kid with the foil from the old cigarette packs lol this is going back 20+ years ago tho

floof lover
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Tried it, forgot how pathetic my joints are. Currently in a wrist brace with an ace bandage on my elbow

Bunzilla
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I kinda want to do this. Something I could do while surfing the net and watching Youtube / Netflix. But I wonder if I'd get yelled at for wasting foil >__>

Sally Vogel
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I know I’m a spoil sport, but I look at everything from an environmental viewpoint and this looks like a big waste of resources....water, electricity ( in the refining process) not to mention aluminum. It’s your future —-or not—kids.

Crappy Annoying Google-
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We used to do this back in the 70's, before the internet. A old urban legend would pop up every once in a while where aluminum was "rare" and metal companies were paying top dollar ($20 to $80 depending on the story at the time). We would start saving the foil from cigarette packs and make them into balls. We'd take the paper off the foil with a lighter, gently running the flame across the underside to lift the paper off to get the "pure" foil. If you burned the paper it would stick to the foil and not stick to the ball! Mine was about the size of a baseball when my Dad showed me a newspaper clipping exposing the truth: the whole thing was a hoax! Awwww!

Sam Leigh
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The finished item is stupidly amazing but I’m afraid I went from First I Age (yeah so an aluminium ball jumped to “oh a candle” to “oh wow pretty’ final image. Nope would not have the patience. But I do see someone making money put of selling kits (hammer included) to make these items.

Cookie
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is asinine. Aluminium is toxic. Polishing it releases a fine dust which you will inhale. Alzheimer's and dementia are just a few of the diseases caused by aluminium poisoning. (Yes, it's just as bad if you eat it.)

Jack Urquhart
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

ART? What are you left with? A ball of aluminum foil. You could do this with cow pies. Dry thoroughly and compress into s sold circular shape. Shave uneven bits. Use sandpaper. And what have you got after all your hours or work? A useless ball of pooh.

pret atva
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow and you developed countries outsource sewing jobs to countries like Bangladesh. Because sewing is repeative and boring..oh the psychology.

Brandy Cannon
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

..... I been doing this since I was three.....with tiny pieces, this really isn't new.....

David Starr
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

America.. Hold my beer. Let me get my blow torch. 10 minutes later. Molten ball of aluminum.

Hawk
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And then we are like, I wonder what would happen if we destroyed it!

Uni N
Community Member
6 years ago

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Wow so much dedication if me i'll give up after 10 min hmm... should i buy aluminum foil o.O

A S Koziol
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Maybe that's part of the point, it's not immediate gratification, and it's something done for you to enjoy after all of the hard work because you know the time and dedication you put into it.

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Laurie Smith
Community Member
6 years ago

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Actually, American teenagers are marching and speaking up to make a difference in their own safety and the safety of all school children. One American teenager just shut down a TV bigot for a week by speaking up. That is hardly "eating Tide pod", and its a lot more productive than obsessively polishing aluminum.

Gabby D
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You're comparing two different things though. The aluminium ball vs tide pod comments compared two hobbies (although I agree it's unfair to dismiss the achievements of American teenagers). You're comparing a hobby with political activism - the two aren't comparable. It's like saying Person A is a great artist whilst Person B forgot to replace the toilet roll. Both may be true but the comparison doesn't actually mean anything.

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Bella
Community Member
6 years ago

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Just sounds to me that they have too much time on their hands. I actually did this back in the 90's! So I actually would have been the first but recording things weren't my thing. I wish I have now lol

Becky Neale
Community Member
6 years ago

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And Aluminium is poisonous and the way these are created means a big fat does of Aluminium through your skin. Yeah the results look cool but at the cost its not worth it. To be honest this fad is not that far away from eating the soap.

Aunt Messy
Community Member
6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's what gloves are for. You can buy a package of 50 or 100 vinyl gloves for under $10.00.

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David Fronval
Community Member
6 years ago

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I think that they should get into romantic relationships and start making babies instead of polishing their balls. Japan's birth rate is 1.41 child per female inhabitants. A catastrophe waiting to happen

trasnik
Community Member
6 years ago

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My every lunch sandwich foil looks like that... pfff

Melody Lanzatella
Community Member
6 years ago

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I do agree that it is WAY less stupid than American kids' fads, but still...WHY?????

Becky Neale
Community Member
6 years ago

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And Aluminium is poisonous and people will be absorbing it through their skin creating these. Yeah , they might look cool but making these is on a par with eating soap

Phillip Moderow
Community Member
6 years ago

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Amazing, yes. But so is training fleas which is about as useless a waste of time and talent.

Kizito
Community Member
6 years ago

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Easy to tell when a man still has his virginity.

Phillip Moderow
Community Member
6 years ago

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Amazing, yes. But about as useless as training fleas.

Andrea Dickinson
Community Member
6 years ago

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F**k it, it take it a these people don't have a stinking mountain of sports kit/underpants/socks on their bedroom floor and as many cups/ glasses and plates, or an actual job, how has a proper adult ever got the time or patience to do this...

Wolfik
Community Member
6 years ago

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Cool but not so healthy because molecules of aluminum get into your body and it's toxic.

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