Create some summer magic with these lemon-lime prints for kids!
Looking for an easy-peasy, lemon-squeezy craft to do with the kids on these final days of summer? This simple printmaking project is just the thing!
This lemon-lime printmaking project teaches kids . . .
- the design principle of repetition
- the concept of cause-and-effect
- the art element of pattern
- about radial symmetry
- about layout and spatial awareness
Additionally, this is a full on sensory experience. The citrus scent, the textures, and the colors make this a multi-sensory activity for kids.
Here’s how we made these lemon-lime prints.
Supplies:
- Lemons and limes
- Knife
- Paper plates or plastic lids
- Washable tempera paint (I recommend using only 2-3 colors)
- Paper
Directions:
- Squeeze a dollop of washable paint onto your paper plates or plastic lids. I highly recommend using a different plate or lid for each color you are using.
- Use a knife to carefully cut your citrus fruit in half. To introduce the concept of radial symmetry with this printing project, you will want to cut your fruit crosswise.
- Dip your fruit into the paint and then press firmly onto your paper to create a print of your lemon and lime! In this particular printing project, less paint is more. Having less paint on the fruit will help your print show more details.
- Repeat these steps, dipping and printing, to create a design of your choice. Experiment with pattern, repetition, and overlapping.
- When your artwork has dried entirely, display your lemon-lime print for all to enjoy!
Looking for another printmaking project for kids that uses food? Check out this blog tutorial on creating Potato Prints. Potato prints would be a great art project to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day or segway into discussing the famous Potato Famine of Ireland.
Needing another art project to teach the concept of radial symmetry? Download this free lesson plan for Symmetrical Suncatchers. With a focus on symmetry, this lesson is a fabulous opportunity to integrate math and art.
Happy creating, friends!