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Monoprints

This project is so simple, inexpensive, and so fun - even for grown-ups. After you try this project, you'll be able to find ideas for using this artistic method for multiple ideas, and general-purpose kid entertainment. Don't underestimate the sophisticated artwork that can be achieved with monoprints.

Items you will need:

mini paint roller from Wall mart (you might want to pick the refill pack too)

any kind of latex, acrylic, or non staining finger paint
good quality paper (shelf paper, brown paper, good typing paper)
a few painting brushes, or sponge pieces, string, cardboard, tongue depressors. .
drop cloth for working surface
wide masking tape or contact paper (optional)
flat piece of Plexiglas, or glass (best size - about an 8 x 10 piece)*

Get whatever painting tool you've chosen, load it up with paint, and apply a simple shape onto the glass. Don't use too many colors unless they can be placed and kept far apart.

Paint a shape, or dip a sponge into color, and then onto the monoprinting glass (any color you like) If you have a low confidence level, cut out triangles, or some other shapes from a wide masking tape. . You can then make an outline to follow by just going around the edges of the tape with a paintbrush.

Remove your tape quickly, and fill in the shape between your outlines. There are no mistakes in this project, because soon your imagination takes over - guaranteed.
Move quickly once your paint is on. Lay the paper onto the painted glass surface, and now it's time to use the mini paint roller. It has to be clean and dry for this part. Run the roller back and forth onto what will soon be the back of the drawing/painting.

Peel the paper from the glass quickly, and lay it aside to dry. The outcome is always a surprise. At this point, let it dry for a few minutes while you think of more creative additions for the next step.

This step is actually optional, because your print might be just good enough right in the beginning. But for more fun, you can keep on adding to the original using string dipped in paint and dragged around the background of existing colors and shapes. Add lettering after it's dried, or fun stamps, glitter - stick ems - whatever your imagination dictates. Naturally the more complex this end part gets, you will have more clean up time involved.

Now, you can decide what to do with your finished monoprint artwork. Maybe it will be a card for a special friend, or family member. Fold the card into quarters or half. Perhaps you will want to frame it, or wrap a small present with it. There's no limit-only your imagination. Have fun!

*You can use glass from an 8 x 10 old picture frame, but be sure to tape the edges to prevent scratches or cuts

Learn more about this author, Carol G.
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