By Amanda Harmer, Education and Community Outreach Coordinator
Around the holidays, I’m always approached by parents wanting easy, personalized, homemade art items that are perfect for gifts but also fool-proof. Here are just a few that have been successful in my classroom, and in my home, over the years.
Model Magic Ornaments
Materials:
- Model Magic in assorted colors, especially green, red, and white
- Ribbon for hanging, about an 8” length per ornament
- Cookie cutters in desired shapes
- Toothpicks
- OPTIONAL: glitter glue, photographs to collage, Elmer’s glue or Modge Podge, clay tools or textural items like butter knives, forks, combs, etc.
Model Magic can be purchased in a variety of colors, and it can also be colored with markers. Begin with a white piece of clay, about 1 oz. Color clay with one color or several colors of markers. Then, twist, roll, and smash the clay until blended to desired color. Flatten clay into a slab, making sure it is slightly larger than the cookie cutter. Use cookie cutter to cut out shape and apply desired textures. A child’s hand could also be used as a stencil. Simply use a pencil or toothpick to trace around the child’s hand. Be sure to poke a hole near the top of the ornament so that a ribbon can be attached. Allow clay to dry overnight. Then, details may be added with glitter glue. If desired, photographs may be cut out and collaged with Elmer’s glue or Modge Podge. Attach ribbon and give as a sweet, personalized gift!
Mommy (or Daddy) & Me Portraits
Materials:
- Watercolor paper – choose a size like 8”x10” or 11”x14” that will be easy to frame
- Pencils and erasers
- Crayons or oil pastels – You will need at least one white crayon/pastel
- Watercolors
- Paintbrushes
- Water container
- Newspaper or tablecloth to protect table
- Optional: mirrors, frame
Turn watercolor paper landscape style and begin portraits. It can be fun to draw a self-portrait, and have your child draw him/herself. Don’t be intimidated by trying to make it too realistic. Have fun with it, and be sure to include identifying features like glasses or freckles, in addition to eyes, ears, noses, etc. Dress yourselves in warm, winter clothing like scarves, mittens, and hats. Add any details that you would see outside on a wintry day. Color yourself by pressing hard with crayons. I like to use oil pastels with really young children because they don’t have to press as hard. Be sure to color every part of your body, all details in the background, and use a white crayon/pastel to make snowflakes all around. Leave sky and ground blank for now. Then, use watercolors to paint sky and ground. Concentrate on using cool colors: greens, blues, and purples. It’s always fun to watch the snowflakes “magically” appear when watercolor is added. Allow to dry and frame if desired.
Just a few more suggestions:
- Create a fun calendar online by using your child’s seasonal artwork throughout the year.
- Use old, artwork destined for the garbage as wrapping paper.
- Use old holiday cards and wrapping paper as collage material for artwork.