Gilded Edges, Golden Leaves
Gild torn-paper edges and make golden leaf imprints on this decorative frame. Display original poetry, photos, or other reminders of nature's beauty.
1. With an adult supervising, collect fallen leaves from plants or trees. Choose only those which are safe to handle. Wash your hands when you return indoors.
2. Talk with classmates about why it is important to take good care of the Earth's natural environment. What can you do to help keep the Earth's ecology in balance? With Crayola® Colored Pencils, use your imagination to write an original poem, haiku, or other piece about nature. Proofread, edit, and rewrite your work in the center of construction paper using Crayola Markers.
3. To form a frame for your writing, carefully tear out the middle of a piece of watercolor paper. Tear around the outside of the frame, too, if you wish.
4. Cover your art area with newspaper. Gild the torn-paper edges using Crayola Premier™ Gold Tempera Paint and a Crayola Paint Brush. Dry.
5. Brush the underside of a leaf with gold paint. Press the painted side down on the paper frame. Repeat to form a pattern. Dry.
6. With Crayola Glue Sticks, attach the frame to your writing for display.
Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project. Observe children closely and intervene as necessary to prevent potential safety problems and ensure appropriate use of arts and crafts materials. Some craft items, particularly beads and buttons, are potential choking hazards for young children. Avoid use of such small parts with children younger than 3 years. Craft items such as scissors, push pins and chenille sticks may have sharp points or edges. Avoid use of materials with sharp points by children younger than 4 years. Read all manufacturers' safety warnings before using arts and craft supplies.
Adult Assistance is required for this arts & crafts project.
Crayola Washable Paints—Not for use as body/face paint.
- Some students with specials needs may appreciate help to tear out the middle of the watercolor paper.
- Create a picture frame or book for photographs, letters, or treasured artwork using these gilding and printing techniques.
- Try these techniques on dark construction paper using Crayola Premier™ Silver Tempera Paint. Paint and press flowers, pine needles, or other natural items.
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