The original purpose of this crazy string in a can (and, honestly, the only purpose) was to be a fun and harmless way to play pranks on friends and family — sort of an extended remix of the old clown gag with the flower that sprays water in your face.
Then as now, the spray streamer makes for a hilariously messy and playful vibe, especially at parties and other social events. The string sprays out in a continuous stream, so you can create some pretty intricate designs and shapes as well as “decorating” yourself and others.
Despite its popularity, Silly String has not been without controversy. In some cities and counties, the use of aerosol party strings has been banned, due to the difficulty in cleaning up the string and the potential for litter and environmental damage. This has led to some debates about the harm that Silly String can cause, and whether or not it should be used in certain public spaces.
In case you’re wondering:
- Does Silly String still exist? Yes, it is still widely available and popular, and is often used at parties and other social events. You can check out modern-day versions here!
- Is Silly String edible? No, the aerosol-propelled string — made from plastic polymer, solvents and colorants — is emphatically not edible and should not be eaten!
- Is Silly String hard to clean up? Yes, it can be difficult to clean up, especially if it is left to dry, and can potentially cause environmental damage if not disposed of properly.
It’s new – It’s silly – It’s fun!
Squirts 1/4 mile of plastic fun! Startling – Laughing – Fun! – Parties – Hilarious – Surprise – Crazy – Action
Wham-O’s colored plastic string in a can
Toymakers throughout the country are turning out playthings so intriguing that adults are enjoying them as much as — or more — than youngsters.
Franklin B. Carelli, owner and operator of Town Toy Co., 363 High St. (Pottstown, Pennsylvania), said the hottest item on his shelves is Silly String, popular with young and old alike.
Silly String comes in an aerosol can, and when pointed at someone appears very menacing. When the button on top is pressed, a steady stream of pink or green plastic spews from the can, but is not harmful to the skin or clothing.
“When people shoot Silly String at some unsuspecting person, the result usually is a scream,” Carelli said. “At first glance, the contents appear to be paint, and can alarm someone not acquainted with it.”
The substance actually is a liquid plastic which solidifies when it comes in contact with the air. A quarter mile of the string is contained in one can.
MORE: Silly Putty: Wonder toy of the 20th century
What can you do with Silly String? Ideas from the product package (1970)
Squirting plastic fun – Puff into shapes – Make little animals – Decorate your bike – Great party fun and wild decorations
Surprise action! The party favorite!
Office Parties – New Year’s Eve – Football Games
The party favorite — More fun than throwing custard pie! Shoots a stream of plastic string. Red fluorescent color.
TRY SILLY STRING AGAIN! Check out some modern-day versions at Amazon here
Party string for your New Year’s Eve party
Some fun! Wham-O SILLY STRING shoots a plastic stream 1/4 mile long! Non-toxic; won’t stain or stick. In our toy department.
Everybody wants to try Silly String (TV commercial)
