DIY Solar Oven

We made a solar oven one summer and I'm pretty sure I put more effort in to it than I got out of it. It works to a degree, but you really need warm sunshine and patience for this one.

Materials:

Old pizza box

Aluminum foil

Paint and glitter for decoration if desired

Black construction paper

Plastic wrap

Tape

Directions:

Cut a flap out of the top of your solar oven pizza box that will let the sun shine in. I would make it about 3/4 the size of the pizza box lid, keeping at least 2 inches on all sides. Be sure to leave one side attached! 

Now, cover the whole pizza box (cover your flap separately so you don't cover it up) with aluminum foil. You can just wrap the top and flap in foil if you so desire. The purpose of the foil is to reflect sunlight into your oven, so whatever works for you! Use tape to attach your foil. 

Now is the time to decorate your box and let it dry in the sun. Line the bottom of your pizza box with black paper to absorb sunlight, increasing the warmth in your oven. Finally, tape a large piece of plastic wrap over the flap opening from the inside so the tape doesn't show. This will trap heat and make it even warmer in your oven. 

Now, place your s'mores or other items inside and set it in the sun, propping open the flap at an angle that maximizes the sun's reflection to the inside of the solar oven. Now you wait and enjoy the fruits of your labor!