This activity can be a way to use up all the bits and bobs you have left over from our other projects last week or you can head out on a walk and find a few things to use as you walk.  There is something so satisfying about creating a work of art from a tool you have made.  Even if your children do not love painting they may be more inclined to give it a go when they know they have made the brushes.

Natural Paintbrushes

For this activity you will need:

• sticks for the handle
• leaves, feathers, flowers, etc as the brush
• elastic bands or string or something similar to attach the brush to the handle

Just choose what you want to use as the brush portion of your paintbrush and attach it to the handle portion (the stick).  It is as simple as that.  It is interesting to make a variety and compare them.

Now try painting.  What textures and shapes do your homemade brushes make?  What is your favourite type to paint with?  Do soft and flexible materials or stiff work better?  Which are better for making brush strokes and which are better for stamping paint on?

Do let us know what you discover and share your finding and photos with us on Facebook, twitter and/or instagram so we can see too.  Thanks!

Happy painting!

All the best,

April