Self Portrait Collage

PROJECT OVERVIEW:
This should pretty much be a free-for-all type thing... focussing on really using found materials to "draw" the portrait. Materials such as: cereal boxes, magazines, newspapers, bulk mail, candy wrappers, caps, buttons, cut plastics (from packaging), labels, fabrics, tin foil, yarn, foam, etc, etc!! Kids are encouraged to find materials with a variety of textures and dimensions. The collage doesn't have to just be made of paper for example... the collage should have a 3D look.

Children can interpret this differently and hopefully use materials that represent themselves... for example, if one's favorite candy is skittles... maybe that makes its way into the collage. The self portrait will most likely look like an abstract version of each child - but could also incorporate their favorite things and hints of their personality/family/home ,etc.

SUPPLY LIST:
- paper backing such as cardboard or cardstock (to build collage on)
- "found materials" such as: cereal boxes, magazines, newspapers, bulk mail, candy wrappers, caps, buttons, cut plastics (from packaging), labels, fabrics, tin foil, yarn, foam, etc, etc!
- glue or tape
- sissors

DIRECTIONS:
1) Find a piece of stiff cardboard to build your portrait on

2) Collect various "found materials" as mentioned above, to build your self portrait. Consider incorporating items that are unique to you or represent you.

3) Use the materials to "draw" your self portrait!

4) Let dry then hang somewhere to express yourself!

REMEMBER:
No rules!! - Except be creative!

Torn Paper Monogram Wall Art

Create modern art to decorate your room with a personalized touch! Easy, quick and fun to do!

SUPPLY LIST:
- scrap papers (old magazines, junk mail, newspaper, etc)
- glue
- backing paper (stiffer construction paper, cardstock, etc)
This can be in whatever size you want your monogram to be, letter size, poster size... as big or small as you like!

DIRECTIONS:
1) Select the backing paper you will create your monogram on. Again, make this whatever size you like! Consider cutting a big scrap piece of cardboard into a fun shape like a star or circle... be unique!

2) Using pencil, sketch out the letter for your monogram. Try bubble letters, block, even cursive. Do your first initial, last or all three!

3) Gather scrap papers (old magazines, junk mail, newspaper, etc) to tear pieces of paper from and build your monogram.
Tip: Your monogram will stand out more if just 2 colors are used.


4) Tear uniform scraps from your scrap papers roughly 1" x 1" in size and set aside to use in your design.
Tip: Sort your pieces in color piles, one for your letter and one for the background color.


5) Apply a thin layer of glue to your backing paper.

6) Start adhering torn papers to your monogram, keeping in mind your letter should be a different color scheme from the background. Continue until your entire backing paper is covered.

7) Set aside to dry.

8) When dry, find a fun place to hang... maybe above your bed or on your bedroom door. :) You might even want to frame for a professional look!