You know what I love about preschool art? All the creative, unexpected ways you can make beautiful projects using everyday household items.
Take this spin painting technique as an example. It’s a simple paper plate craft made spectacular with a common kitchen tool.
Spin painting is a blast for kids and an excellent activity for developing hand and arm strength and coordination.
While I tried this with younger children, older kids enjoy it just as much. The technique is simple, quick, and consistently produces striking results.
How to do it
You’ll need a paper plate, some acrylic craft paint, and a salad spinner.
Trim the plate if necessary so it sits flat in the spinner’s basket, then place it inside the spinner.
Drizzle two or three contrasting colors of paint onto the plate. Put the lid on the spinner and spin—fast or slow, briefly or for a longer spin—until the paint spreads into beautiful patterns.
The centrifugal action creates surprising swirls and splatters that children find mesmerizing. It’s a fun experiment in color mixing, motion, and cause-and-effect, and the results often look like professional abstract art.
For a step-by-step demonstration, visit CBC Parents to see the technique in action.
Tips and variations:
- Try different amounts of paint to change the intensity of the design.
- Use thicker or thinner paints to alter how the colors spread and blend.
- Experiment with different plate sizes or cut shapes from cardstock for varied outcomes.
- Let the pieces dry flat before displaying them or turning them into cards, collages, or wall art.
Happy spinning!
Get the 3-5 Playful Preschool e-Book!
25+ preschool activities from 25 bloggers, 10 printables, and 50 links to additional activities — all for $8.99!
Download your copy today:
Follow the Hooligans on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter for more simple, playful ideas and step-by-step activities.