Nature Paintbrushes

Nature Paintbrushes

The kids love going for walks and collecting sticks, rocks, leaves etc. They also LOVE painting! I had the kids collect things on our walk they thought would make good paintbrushes. We collected leaves, pine needles, sticks and other various items. When we got home, my eldest helped me gather them into little bunches and we taped the bottom, for an easy place to hold our nature brushes. Expanding art into unconventional uses and different modalities can spark creativity, imagination, and the ability to think outside the box.

Things you will need:

1.    Items from nature that you can gather into small bunches (pick at least 3 different types to have a mixture of texture and patterns).

2.    A bucket to collect the items in

3.    Painters tape

4.    Paint

5.    Paper or butchers paper

Directions:

Take your child outside and let them explore in the backyard, nearby park, or a walk. Have them collect items they can paint with. Once you have your items. Bound them up in small bunches. Try to have them in a somewhat uniformed height. Put out the paint and paper for your child. I set my kids up on an art table outside. Allow them to pick the paintbrushes they want to use and let them freely paint with them. I try not to bombard them with too many questions. Allow them to lead the conversation, "this paintbrush is spikey." Respond to their language, "it sure is, we used dried pine needles and they are sharp at the end."

Looking for more nature inspired art projects? Check out STEAM Nature People!