Discovering Creativity with Crafts 

Ages 2-5

Supplies

• 6 pieces of colored tissue
  or crepe paper, 20" x 24"
  Pipe cleaner

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Directions:

Lay the pieces of paper on top of each other making sure the corners all match up. On one of the long ends fold the papers up 3", then fold back 3", repeating 6 more times (will look like an accordion). Take the pipe cleaner and fold over the middle, twisting it to its base to secure the paper and make a short handle. Next, pull the first layer up to the center on one side, then the next paper, and so on until you finish all six pieces. Do the same on the other side.

Supplies

• Cardboard egg carton
  Styrofoam cup
  Scrap pieces of wrapping paper or fabric
  Glue
  Plaster of paris
  Pipe cleaners, 6" long
  Tempera paints
  Brushes

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Directions:

Begin by protecting your workspace with newspaper. Have your child decorate the styrofoam cups by gluing pieces of wrapping paper or fabric pieces. Tear the egg carton to make 12 individual “flowers” (you may want to trim some of the edges with scissors). Have your child paint the flower tops with tempera paints. With the end of a pencil, poke a hold through the flower and insert the pipe cleaner. Bend the pipe cleaner over to secure the flower top. Have your child make a minimum of three flowers. Mix water with the plaster according to package directions (about 1 cup per flowerpot). Have your child hold the flowers together in the flower pot while you pour the plaster. Prop the flowers up against something to keep the flowers upright while they dry. The plaster sets quickly but you should let it dry thoroughly over night.

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Spike Dolomite is the owner and operator of "Mama Spikeala's" Art School for children
(818)342-1473