Without getting into electrochemistry, I'd say you're looking at the time factor. ie, you could get a timer to mark the time the electrolytic process begins breaking-down and cut short from there. Which would likely be the simplest way to gain control of things.

Otherwise, you may find yourself getting frustrating with moving your electrodes around etc. To which I'd add, the rule of thumb for most small batches, seems to be at/or around 1 to 1 -1/2 inches apart.

Having said that, I'd also add that moving your electrodes apart will also slow the initial start-up phase of processing. Which is perfectly normal as the spacing is relative to the electrical field created between your electrodes. IOW. When you start your batch, the water is pure and has very little conductivity. AKA not much goings on between them. And so, the reaction is very small and slow at first.

However, once the reaction progresses, the conductivity of the water will increase(due to the silver displaced into the water). And thus, the reaction which takes place between your electrodes will increase or ramp-up accordingly. Which btw. is the main reason behind hairy solutions. IOW. The reaction will eventually ramp out of control(overload) which in turn begins to break down from the potential to create those extremely small particles and begins making very large by-products(crystallized structures). And so, it would be to your advantage to control your solution so as to avoid this from happening. - IOW. timing your batch and pulling the plug prior to the point where things begin to get out of hand.

Hope this helps.

PS. If you want to learn more about the electrochemical processes and options used to control and make high quality Colloidal Silver solutions just say the word. Otherwise, batch timing is likely the simplest and most effective way to avoid hairy solutions.

Hairy? My setup is the typical electrolysis method with 3 9v batteries.

If I ever make a Colloidal Silver making video, I will use that music also. - so great! :)

Moving the plates closer got it started. I need a better setup than a chopstick and copper wire to suspend the plates. Any suggestions?