As a former art teacher in the public schools I am used to making something out of nothing. A tiny and budget and 500 kids a week will make a teacher resourceful. I’m no longer in the classroom but I still love taking junk and making it into something new! Rubber band prints do exactly that!
An “adinkra” is a visual symbol. This traditional African textile dates back to the 1800’s. Adinkra symbols were once printed on fabric in a grid pattern using a carved gourd. This special fabric was reserved for royalty or spiritual leaders. Today Adinkra cloth is widely available and commercially printed on fabric, t-shirts and jewelry for everyone to wear and enjoy.
This homemade harmonica is a blast if you don’t mind a little background noise. Even if you do, they are such a hoot they are worth making! Open the back door and kick your kiddos outside to enjoy the fruits of their labor!
Tissue paper art, or painting with tissue paper is a favorite activity of mine, mostly because activity transcends age. It can be done by the littlest artists or it can grow into part of a more sophisticated process for an older artists.
Printmaking is hands down my favorite art activity. Little kids, big kids, professionals, and non artists can all find something they enjoy in the super varied world of printmaking. It is the least intimidating of art media (at least to me) because no drawing skill is required! It can be as simple as these potato prints; carve, paint, and print!
Paper marbling is an art that has been around for centuries. Years ago there were fancy chemical cocktails and extensive processes to get those beautiful colors to float on a medium, swirl together, and then stick to paper. Today were going to explore the ancient art of paper marbling and you’re not even going to have to open your craft cupboard.
Pony beads are cheap an can be found about anywhere. Couple that with their bright colors and perfect for little finger size and you’ve got a winning art material! Bead crafts here we come!
My kiddos and I started making ornaments (or sun catchers depending on the time of the year.) We quickly realized there was plenty of fun ways to manipulate these little boogers and turn them into something unrecognizable.
Printmaking is one of my favorite processes with kids because its just so simple and fun. Since Lego’s come in so many shapes and sizes they lend themselves perfectly to printmaking! This Lego craft is a natural Prep work is slim since all you have to do is head over to the Lego bin and grab some black paint!
Homemade Watercolors. Who knew this was even a thing? Turns out it is and its awesome fun. You’ve got all the stuff in your kitchen so get out your measuring cups and get ready!