Crafting to Keep the Crazies Away

I am an introvert, who loves being home. But, this is getting old, even for me! Anyone else going stir crazy?!

To occupy our time, we have done everything from crafting, baking, gardening all the way to chopping down trees, getting new “farm” equipment and a fun table rehab. We have started brainstorming our next project ideas (kids’ rooms & a workout room in the shop!) And, I’ve already mentioned that cutey puppy we got to fill in all the remaining time gaps. (Seriously… Puppy training takes a LOT of dedicated time!)

So, today I’ve got 2!!! Fun projects for you that do not require elastic, filters or gloves!

First up….. A Painting Activity for those kiddos!

For this contained-mess project (there is still an element of possible mess, so plan accordingly!) you will need a cardboard box or plastic container that has one of the large sides open. Think a shoe box without the lid, a canned-goods box from Aldi, or a plastic shoe storage bin.
You will also need paint in several colors, a few marbles, and paper.

Place a sheet of paper inside the box. Squeeze several dollops of paint around the paper. I added white to each color of paint in hopes of making more spring-like colors.

Then, add a few marbles to the box. Shake, rattle and roll!
Keep in mind that the marbles will have a tendency to “jump” out of the box if your kids shake too violently (Mine did…) A simple wet rag or paper towel next to your workspace will help with this!

Once the papers have dried, you can use them to create many things. We made Easter eggs and flowers from our marbled creations. You could also use the paper for small gifts, to make cards or books, or to use as a backdrop for abstract art!

As I was setting up this activity, my “big” kids got super excited. This is a paint technique we’ve done since they were toddlers, and they still love it! Of course, in our house since we love crafting, it occupied almost an hour of our day!

Let me know if you give it a go!

P.s. Project Number 2 can be found here

Happy Crafting, friends!