With school holidays either in full swing or about to start, you might need some ideas to keep the children entertained this Easter.
A DIY project is always a good choice and my niece Alexandra, 14, was keen to create her own bespoke artwork. We hope you enjoy sharing her project:
I had three paints, three brushes and rollers. My options were endless. But, what would I do? Well, thankfully I had a blank canvas at hand and some plain frames.
My mission: create a unique artwork with three of the latest pastel colours. I chose Easter Egg, Easter Bonnet and Candy Pink from Taubmans.
I gathered my tools, got some painter's blue masking tape and started. Remember to always paint in a well-ventilated area, put down some paper or an old sheet to catch any paint drops or spillage. I thought of two projects, but do as many as you want. Have fun!
Project One:
- Step 1: I randomly taped off areas that I wanted to stay white, and the rest of the ‘spaces’ would be painted. It basically became a geometrical artwork.
- Step 2: I stirred and shook my Easter-themed paint sample pots.
- Step 3: When painting, I tried not to get the same colour side by side. When I ran out of spaces, I mixed some paint together, which made some other nice colours.
- Step 4: Let the artwork dry. As the paint is water-based, it will be touch dry in minutes and you can reapply another coat in two hours.
- Step 5: When the paint was dry, I removed the masking tape as carefully as I could, trying not to rip it.
- Step 6: Outline the shapes with a black permanent marker or a fine art liner. If you have straight lines, a ruler is recommended.
- Step 7: Sign your artwork and you now have an original piece to hang at home!
Project Two:
I had five frames - four the same size and one a little larger. I thought paint blocking would be good.
- Step 1: Open disposable paint roller with tray. Paint the raw timber in a white undercoat.
- Step 2: I used Easter Egg as my first colour (I love blue!) and used this on three of the smaller frames. Roll some paint onto the brush, just enough for a fine first coat. Use a brush to do the sides of the frame and the inner frame. Don’t worry if you miss a spot as the second coat will cover it.
- Step 3: Let dry and recoat.
- Step 4: Repeat for the other two sizes. I again used Easter Bonnet and Candy Pink at full strength.
- Step 5: Rather than fill in the frame with a photo or art work, simply arrange the frames into a nice shape and then hang on a white-painted wall. Or arrange them on your dressing table or desk for a nice display.
When done, wash the paint brush under cold water and shake off droplets (but watch where you shake the brush as you don't want any droplets flying on to something your Uncle may want! Ooops, sorry!). Fold up your sheet or paper and put your rubbish in the bin. Now enjoy your special piece of art!
