Printed Paper Portfolios

crayola supplies

Washable Kid's Paint
Glue Sticks
Blunt-Tip Scissors

household supplies

recycled newspaper
brown paper grocery bag
recycled foam produce trays
container(s) of water
plastic dinnerware

Why

Kids build confidence and pride in their accomplishments with these stylish printed paper portfolios.

Steps

1. With Crayola® Scissors cut out one wide panel of a large paper grocery bag. Fold the bottom up about half of the way. Glue sides with a Crayola Glue Stick to create a folder.
2. Cut away the sides of one or more recycled foam produce trays to make printing blocks (the images will print in reverse). With a plastic knife, carve your favorite symbols onto the tray bottoms. What are your interests? Sports? Butterflies? Music? Draw designs that best illustrate you as a person. Carve your name if you like.
3. Spread newspaper over your work area. Pour Crayola Washable Kid's Paint into another produce tray and spread it evenly. Press your carved printing block evenly in the paint. Press the block print onto the folder to decorate. Dry. Print with your other blocks, in different colors, if you wish. Dry.
4. Keep awards, letters, ribbons, certificates, and other important honors in your printed paper portfolio.

When & Where

"Our kids are so proud of their awards. Now they are organized inside their own beautiful art!"
- Dee Ann B., mom of three children ages 6 to 11.

"Proud and Personal led to a discussion about respect for each other's differences and similarities."
- Kersten C., community center volunteer.

Interesting Info

The Earth Day Groceries Project was started by a Seattle, Washington, teacher in 1995 to increase environmental awareness. This international project encourages schools to borrow paper grocery bags from local stores to decorate with Earth Day messages. The bags are returned to the store for use on Earth Day, April 22. To get involved, log on to www.earthdaybags.org.

Safety Guidelines

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

Modeling Tools—Use the least dangerous point or edge sufficient to do the job. For example, craft sticks, plastic knives and forks, and cookie cutters can cut or carve modeling materials.

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.