Before you begin be sure that you have a pair of wire cutters and an old whisk.
Cut the round ends off of the whisk, then arrange the tines so that they are spaced evenly.
You will also need to make sure that you have a large enough area to make the cotton candy.
To begin cut open a plastic garbage bag and use it to cover the floor. Wedge two large wooden spoons so that they extend over the edge of the counter.
Place the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a two-quart heavy saucepan over medium-high heat.
Use a candy thermometer to cook the sugar mixture to a temperature of 320 degrees Fahrenheit, then remove it from the heat and carefully pour it into a microwave-safe glass bowl. Be sure not to let the sugar in the pan, since it will continue to cook.
Dip the tines of the whisk into the hot sugar mixture and allow the sugar to drain off for a couple of seconds until the draining sugar strands are roughly the same consistency.
Next, wave the whisk over the wooden spoons, allowing the sugar strands to drift until they rest on top of the spoons. Be sure that you are from 1 to 1-1/2 feet above the spoons during this process. Use long broad strokes and be sure to work quickly. Gather the cotton candy and roll it onto the paper that has been rolled into a long thin cone, and enjoy.
If the cotton candy needs to be stored, it can be stored in an airtight container. When storing the cotton candy be sure to avoid moisture and humidity, which could cause it to melt and become sticky.