Our long lake vacation is finally coming to an end (siiiiigh). As I write this, we’re in the car, on our two-day trek back home to reality and more dirty laundry than I even want to think about. Ever.
In the meantime, Laura Bray is guest posting here today — showing us a fun, cute craft the kids will love this summer!
While I try to avoid paper plates as much as I can for the sake of the environment, sometimes you just have to use them: picnics, BBQs, and beach days often require something that you can toss when you’re done eating. There are tons of designs to choose from, but they can be pricey. Why not buy a big stack of plain, white paper plates and bowls and have the kids make them pretty for you?
Supplies:
- Plain, white paper plates and bowls. These should be the inexpensive paper kind. Do not use the kind that has a protective, glossy finish.
- Food dye
- A brand new paint brush. Don’t use one that has been used for paints! Other tool options include cotton swabs, sponges, and foam brushes. Just make sure you use clean, new tools. Food will be touching your finished surface so you don’t want any cross-contamination.
Instructions
- To create a “watercolor” painting medium, put a few drops of food dye into a glass of water. Add a little vinegar to the water.
- Brush the “food color watercolors” onto paper plates. Experiment with designs. Try drawing designs, use sponges to create patterns, or just put a few drops of watercolor on the dish and then allow it to drip.
- Once you are happy with the design, set it aside to dry. These need to dry at least 24-48 hours, so plan accordingly!
This is a fun and simple project to create, so give the kids a stack of plates and you’ll have a nice supply for the season.
Important Tip: Food dye is water soluble. This means even after it dries, it will bleed a bit when it comes in contact with water. “Wet” food like fruits and veggies may result in the design bleeding and the dye getting on the food. It’s fine, because the paint is a food dye, but it can be a little messy. Just wanted you to be prepared! (The kids think it’s great, though.) Another way to keep the mess at bay is to keep designs along the plate edges.
Laura Bray is a professional craft designer, writer, and illustrator. She inspires creative women to live a life of balance & simplicity by sharing her modern twist on traditional home arts. Whether you stitch, cook, are raising children or just want to be a better homemaker, you are sure to find great tips and tutorials on her blog at www.laurabraydesigns.com
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