Masking tape is a fun material for preschoolers to use in an art activity. Kids can make designs with tape on a cardboard canvas, and decorate with stickers, crayons or markers. The simple process of applying tape and colorful stickers will help strengthen fine motor and creative skill in early learners.

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We always seem to have a bit of cardboard on hand - an empty cereal box, a shipping carton, or packaging material. The cardboard can be used as a canvas for an art activity. 

A large piece of cardboard can also be used as a table protector when placed under paints and other craft materials.

 

Related: Spring flowers made with corrugated cardboard.

 

For this simple art activity, recycle some cardboard to use as a canvas for making designs with stickers and tape. 

This is child-led activity, which means kids can do the 'work', while grownups guide and 'help' when needed or requested. Grownups can also participate by making artwork of their own alongside their budding artist.

 

 

Supplies

• masking tape
• washi tape
• self-adhesive stickers
• crayons and markers
• cardboard

 

Cut pieces of cardboard into different sizes and shapes.

Provide a variety of tape in different colors and widths, as well as crayons and markers.

 

 

Instructions

Make designs on the cardboard with tape. This one is done with a lot of plain masking tape on a long rectangular piece of cardboard.

Color the spaces between the lengths of tape with crayons or markers.

Add dots or other stickers to the design.

 

 

Here is an easy method of adding tape to the cardboard:

• Place the tape on the cardboard so it extends on both sides.

• Kids can cut the tape with scissors or tear with their fingers.

• Fold the ends under the cardboard to make a smooth finish.

 

You can also pre-cut pieces of tape for younger children.

 

 

 

Kids create independently in a process art activity.  There is no end product or result to achieve, and the activity is largely child-led. 

The materials provided speak for themselves - their colors, textures, and uses can be explored and implemented through hands-on discovery. 

This is a simple activity using everyday materials. The easy setup and cleanup help make it a go-to activity to keep in your 'toolkit'!

 

More tape activities from kid-friendly bloggers!

Tape Resist Name Painting - Pre-K Pages

Tape Pull Fine Motor Activity - Mama Papa Bubba

The Magic of Tape - Teach Preschool

Tape Resist Stained Glass Art - Happy Hooligans

Sticky Tape Challenge - Laughing Kids Learn

A Tape Road - Hands On as We Grow