Summer is the perfect time to delve into large scale crafts that kids can use to decorate a space, use as backdrops for a summer skit, or for creative play. While this is not my idea nor my photos, the photos are by Ron Lach, I just love this idea and all the creativity that it can foster. It is true, younger kids will need help drawing and cutting out the shark shape, and you might want to make templates in a few sizes and varieties for kids to trace, but other than that there is so much one can do with this idea. How about a shark covered in collage, or pom poms or even flowers? Use shark shapes to create art of any kind, and then assemble them swimming across a wall, a wonderful idea for a summer art camp or class project. OR maybe take this idea and create a school of fish? The main thing is, get kids to delve into the wonderful world of creativity instead of screen time, and wow, you've really done something meaningful and significant for them. Got it? Lets make some sharks!
Above: The scribble quality of the filled in color, especially because of the texture of the corrogated cardboard is perfect!
You'll Need:
- recycled cardboard boxes, open them up for larger pieces
- good scissors and a pencil and eraser
- things to color the shark: crayons, paint markers, oil pastels, or even paint (though I love the scribbled look and the cardboard background showing through)
- think about adding texture with paint and sponges or stencils of any kind of pattern
- creativity to make this project your own!
How To:
Draw the outline of a shark on a large piece of cardboard, the bigger the better, cut it out and color. Make templates in a few sizes and even for a few kinds of ocean life, like whales and other fish, or even seals and sea lions, and let the kids that are old enough trace the shapes onto their own pieces of cardboard. Have fun with this one, the possibilities are endless!
