Wrap It Up Gift Paper

crayola supplies

Paint Brushes
Gel Markers
Washable Kid's Paint
No-Run School Glue
Blunt-Tip Scissors
Giant Easel Pad

household supplies

recycled newspaper
paper towels
recycled foam produce trays
container(s) of water

Why

Print your own colorful, original gift wrap paper!

Steps

1. What gift will you wrap with the paper you create? Think of a design that fits the person or holiday.
2. First, you will print a pattern of shapes on your wrapping paper. Outline your printing block with a Crayola® Colored Pencil on a recycled foam produce tray. Draw areas inside the shape to cut out, too. Use pointed Crayola Scissors to carefully cut out your design.
3. Cut a second produce tray into a back that is slightly larger than your design. With Crayola School Glue, attach the cut-out to the backing. Air dry.
4. Cover your art area with newspaper. Place a slightly damp paper towel on a third produce tray. Add a few drops of your favorite colors of Crayola Washable Kid's Paint to the paper towel. Spread the paint with a Crayola Paint Brush.
5. Use newsprint or other paper that is large enough to wrap your gift. Press your foam printing block into the paint. Apply even pressure so all of the raised, cut-out areas pick up paint. Press the printing block to your paper. Repeat to make a pattern. Air dry flat.
6. Use Crayola Gel Markers to outline your prints and fill in any empty spaces.

When & Where

"We made this paper to use as book covers. The kids chose themes to match their school subjects."
- Henry T., dad of ages 7, 9, & 14.

"Several classes made holiday paper and matching cards this way! The kids loved doing it all themselves."
- Misha S., PTA volunteer.

Interesting Info

This type of printing is called "relief printing" because the printing block has a raised surface. The first relief prints were produced in China and were made from wood blocks.

Safety Guidelines

Crayola Washable Paints—Not for use as body/face paint.

Recycled Foam Produce Trays—Wash in hot, soapy water. No meat or poultry trays should be used.

Scissors—ATTENTION: The cutting edges of scissors are sharp and care should be taken whenever cutting or handling. Blunt-tip scissors should be used only by children 4 years and older. Pointed-tip scissors should be used only by children 6 years and older.