Tropical Paper Paintings

crayola supplies

Fine Line Markers
Washable Watercolors
Watercolor Brushes with Plastic Handle
Blunt-Tip Scissors

household supplies

recycled newspaper
brown paper grocery bag
paper towels
spray bottle filled with water
container(s) of water

Why

Wear a colorful shirt and listen to Hawaiian music to set the mood. As you make this replica tapa cloth, you'll feel like you're playing on these lush, tropical islands!

Steps

1. In Hawaii, bark cloth has been used for hundreds of years. It is called tapa cloth and is decorated with animals, scenes from nature, or bold geometric designs.
2. To make your own version of Hawaiian bark art, cut a brown paper bag into pieces with Crayola® Scissors. Soak the bark-cloth shapes in water and then wring them out. Flatten and dry by sandwiching them between newspaper under a heavy object.
3. Using Crayola Classic Fine Line Markers, create designs on your bark cloth. Use authentic tropical patterns found in nature and in Hawaiian art.
4. Finish your design by coloring it with Crayola Washable Watercolors. Dry.

When & Where

"We make bark art every summer on picnic tables. The kids ask to do it again and again."
- Luz H., day camp counselor.

"Hawaiian art is so colorful and expressive. We tie this project to learning about history, nature, cultures, geography, and climate."
- Cheryl M., after-school leader.

Interesting Info

Bark traditionally has been used for various purposes in areas including Mexico, Africa, Hawaii, and Australia. People beat the inside pulp or bark of the tree until it was softened. They then used it to make clothing or a form of paper on which they could write or draw.

Safety Guidelines

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

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.