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7 Art Projects Kids Can Do at Home With Everyday Materials

Oregon art for children using everyday materials.
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Creative art lessons for kids don’t require expensive supplies or high-end materials. With common household items and a bit of imagination, children can participate in fun art projects at home. These easy-to-follow lessons can help kids develop their creative abilities while building confidence in their skills.

7 Art Projects Children Can Try With Household Supplies

Making art with household materials encourages kids to experiment and think creatively. Here are some of our favorite art projects to do with everyday items.

1. Sponge Painting With Kitchen Sponges

Sponge painting introduces children to texture while they create colorful designs. Using only paper, paint and kitchen sponges, this simple project suits kids of all ages. A child can experiment by dabbing sponges in different colored paints to create unique patterns and layered effects.

2. Coffee Filter Art

For this project you can create butterfly patterns with coffee filters, markers and additional decorations. Start by coloring the filters with shapes or patterns, then spray with water to let the colors blend. When the filter has dried, use a clothespin in the middle of the filter to form the antennae.

3. Pasta Mosaics

A pasta mosaic involves gluing different types of pasta to cardboard in interesting patterns and designs. The first step is coloring the pasta using washable paint. Next, sketch a design on the cardboard (such as a flower, a heart, an abstract pattern and so on). Then comes the fun of gluing the shells to the board. A mosaic project is a fun way to enjoy the benefits of doing art as a family at home.

4. Sock Puppet Art

Younger kids love the process of creating a sock puppet character and bringing it to life. To make a puppet character, take some old socks and use fabric glue to attach old bits of fabric, buttons and yarn.

5. Paper Plate Masks

For a paper plate mask project you’ll require paper plates, scissors, markers and decorations such as glitter, sequins and fabric. Carefully cut out eye holes, then add color and decoration in the form of an animal, superhero or other character.

6. Bubble Wrap Printmaking

Bubble wrap is another everyday item that gets children to think about using texture in their work. Simply add washable paint to sections of bubble wrap and use the wrap as a stamp, layering different colors to create interesting effects.

7. Magazine Collage Art

Magazine collages are a simple way of creating engaging art at home. A child will need to cut out sections of images from magazines, then piece them together into a completely new design. This project encourages kids to develop their creativity and learn about composition.

Accessible Art Project for Kids to Try at Home

If you’re looking for fun, simple art lessons for elementary and middle school children, Golden Road Arts can help. We create a range of art projects you can try at home or in the classroom. Browse our free art lessons here, and please consider donating to our nonprofit 501(c)(3).

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