Provide awesome painting experiences for kids in preschool and early elementary using packaging materials as painting tools. Painting with recycled containers offers unique ways for kids to get creative.
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Recycle everyday household containers for interesting and unique painting sessions with preschoolers. This gives packaging new purpose instead of heading right to the landfill.
Different sizes and shapes of recyclables and packaging prompt a variety of arts and crafts ideas. Recycled containers are easy to add to a process art session. This type of activity supports fine motor and creative skills.
- Process art activities are open-ended, meaning there is no specific goal or outcome (product). The benefit is in the hands-on engagement with materials – choosing paint tools and paint colors, and applying the paint to the canvas.
It’s easy for preschoolers to have fun painting experiences with recyclables.
Related: Homemade Paint Brushes
Painting with recyclables as paint tools
Supplies list
- foam tray
- clean plastic containers or packaging in different sizes and shapes.
We were able to come up with circle, a square and a rectangle (or close to it!). The tops of these containers have flat rims which easily transfer the paint.
How to paint with recyclables
Pour a single color of paint into a foam tray.
Press a plastic shape into the paint and press onto the paper.
Can you see a design taking shape? A car? A locomotive?
Put two or more paint colors in one tray.
Stamp the colors separately or mix the colors together to make a new color.
Stamp patterns or designs on the paper.
Paint the tops of recycled containers.
Instead of dipping the container into the paint tray, paint the rims at the tops of the containers and then press the container onto the paper. This is just another way to incorporate fine motor work into the art activity.
Ideas for small group activities
- Count the number of impressions made with the containers.
- Talk about the colors used.
- When the paint is dry, add features to the stamped images with crayons or markers to make animals or other characters.
- Cut out the shapes. Glue together to make a craft. (Cut out round shapes to use as wheels. Glue the wheels to a rectangle to make a vehicle.)
The hands-on process of dabbling in paint and creating art is a fun learning opportunity for kids.
Providing a variety of tools for kids to choose from prompts them to make choices and explore the art process. Reuse any everyday items you can think of, including foam trays, plastic yogurt or pudding pots, and plastic packaging or lids.
Why stop at paint brushes when so much unique art is waiting to be made!
