A dye is placed in one of the containers and it changes to a golden yellow. A third clear liquid changes it to a wine red, and the fourth one restores it to sparkling clear again. Heat 8 oz. of water to boiling and dissolve 1 tsp cornstarch in it. Dissolve 3 tsp. Dissolve 1 tsp.
All measurements are approximate.
Experiment with different quantities for the effect you want. The first solution should be plain water. Adding a few drops of iodine will turn it golden yellow. The next solution should be the washing soda with a little starch water mixed in. If you use the starch and iodine sparingly you get a nice navy blue for U.S. patriotic themes.