Art doesn’t have to be sophisticated or fancy or require advanced technical skill to be totally worth making. I love introducing kids to art processes that are spontaneous and somewhat random in their results. One, because everyone is successful and who doesn’t love that? And two, because it’s fun. This paper marbling definitely fits the bill.
If you’ve got a short list of art supplies oil to keep available for your kiddos oil pastels should make the cut. They’re cheap, crazy vibrant, and can be used in dozens of ways! This oil pastel painting technique, however, is a new one on my radar and it’s the perfect way to introduce kids to blending oil pastels and creating smooth color transitions!
When I was in college I had a special crockpot just for wax. A little electric skillet was specially reserved for heating little glass jars of colored wax. I no longer have such specialty gear as the time I devote to such projects no longer warrants it. But I do remember that hot wax is a fun medium. Melted crayon is the perfect way to introduce your kids to the fun of encaustic painting.
Paint scrape art doesn’t take much in the way of materials. This process can be as basic or sophisticated as you want it to. That means that anyone from toddlers to adults can take part in this fun process art activity.
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.
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.
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!
Primary colors are one of the first art concepts I like to introduce young kids to in art. First, because they are a basic building block for understanding how to make all kinds of things. And second, because mixing colors is kind of magical. This color mixing coffee filter craft is a fun introduction to what happens when those primary colors mix together!
This little project was all about line exploration with oil pastel and watercolor. It is easy, fun, and allows for a lot of individual interpretation and therefore a wide variety of finished products. When every child ends up with a piece of art uniquely theirs you know you have a winner!