grass and geranium 2047

Create beautiful outdoor art using homemade paintbrushes from plants and items found in nature.

Tips for Teachers/Parents
Teach children to respect living plants and only use found or discarded flowers and plants for this project. I save pulled weeds or clippings when doing yard work. Stems and flowers from a bouquet that has begun to droop are also great for this project.

brushes 2047

Supplies

  • Newsprint, paper grocery bag or placemat to cover workspace
  • Discarded plants: leaves, flowers and/or grass (Be sure plants are not poisonous and don’t have thorns.)
  • Chopsticks, old paintbrush handles, craft sticks, twigs or clothespins
  • String or rubber bands to hold materials to the “handle”
  • Scissors
  • White construction paper or cardstock
  • Tempera paint in bright colors

clothespin dandelion 2047

Directions

  • Gather together several types of discarded leaves, flowers and grass
  • Attach a bundle of discarded plants to the paintbrush “handle” of your choice with string or a rubber band. Or clip the bundle with a clothespin. (See first photo.)
  • If your flowers or grasses have sturdy stems, use them without adding a handle—just hold them by the stem ends.
  • Trim the plants, if desired, to shorten or use them long and then trim them shorter.
  • Using tempera paint, paint a picture. It can be abstract texture or try painting as if using regular paintbrushes.
  • If using flowers, make flower prints by gently pressing the flower into paint and then onto the paper.

long stemmed grass 2047

stems of orchid 2047

----------------------

Alyssa Navapanich is a nationally recognized art educator who teaches art to elementary school kids in East San Diego County. She is the author of San Diego Family Magazine’s “Art with Alyssa” column.

 

 

How to Make a Campfire Crown

How to Make a Campfire Crown

Nothing says camping like a gooey s’mores goodness, so it’s only fitting that kings and queens of the campfire wear s’mores-themed crowns. Here are instructions to make campfire crowns for you . . .

Read more

Smiling Sun Craft

Smiling Sun Craft

Brighten up a spring or summer day with a smiling sun craft made with colorful yarn and glue. This project also makes a festive Cinco de Mayo decoration. Get creative and make your own unique design . . .

Read more

DIY Kiddie Car Wash

DIY Kiddie Car Wash

This fun, do-it-yourself kiddie car wash keeps kids and their ride-on toys cool and clean. Add a spray hose, mild dish detergent and a bubble gun for hours of outdoor playtime. Total cost of materia . . .

Read more

Craft a Paper Carousel

Craft a Paper Carousel

This project is inspired by the beautiful historic carousel that sits majestically in the northeast corner of San Diego’s Balboa Park. Whether you’re planning a whimsical birthday party, celebra . . .

Read more

Ice Painting

Ice Painting

Creating art with frozen paint cubes (ice painting) is a super fun summertime or warm-weather activity. It’s also a great party activity for a Frozen-themed birthday party (or any winter-themed ce . . .

Read more

DIY Pool Noodle Lightsabers

DIY Pool Noodle Lightsabers

May the "fourth" be with you (the force, that is)! Whether you’re celebrating Star Wars Day on May 4 or hosting a Star Wars-themed birthday party, these easy DIY lightsabers are a hit with ki . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: Nature Pendants

Art with Alyssa: Nature Pendants

Spring is an excellent time for nature-inspired art projects for kids. This month’s “Art with Alyssa” project provides instructions to make nature pendants, which make wonderful gifts for . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: DIY Miniature Book

Art with Alyssa: DIY Miniature Book

It’s really fun to craft your own mini books. They make thoughtful gifts for birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and more, or a unique place to record your own ideas and quotes. There is lot . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: Marble Painting

Art with Alyssa: Marble Painting

  Marble painting is a great art project that encourages eye-hand coordination and muscle control. It’s fun to experiment with different colors and designs and it’s easy to adapt the project . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: Nature Weaving

Art with Alyssa: Nature Weaving

Supplies Twigs or sticks, 6–12” long Garden clippers Scissors Twine or yarn Variety of grasses, flowers and plants with long stems. (I used buttercup, euryops, geranium, lavender, rosemar . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: How to Make a Nature Journal

Art with Alyssa: How to Make a Nature Journal

Creating and maintaining a nature journal is a fun, relaxing and educational activity for children (and adults) that encourages time outdoors and connection with nature. There is no right way to kee . . .

Read more

DIY Instruments for Kids

DIY Instruments for Kids

Get creative and have a festive backyard parade with these beautiful homemade musical instruments! Local artist Emily Dolton shares step-by-step instructions on how to make a Melon Maraca, Citrus Dr . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: DIY Lorax Puppets & Theater

Art with Alyssa: DIY Lorax Puppets & Theater

Inspired by Dr. Seuss’ lovable and courageous storybook character, craft your own Lorax stick puppets and puppet theater. This fun project is a great springboard for conversation with kids about t . . .

Read more

Art with Alyssa: Recycled Egg Carton Flowers

Art with Alyssa: Recycled Egg Carton Flowers

Turning trash into treasure is not only fun, it’s great for the planet. You’ll love this recycled art project that transforms a paper egg carton into a beautiful bouquet of flowers—perfect for . . .

Read more

Be Family Informed – Sign up for our Newsletters below!

Subscribe