How to Make a Mushroom Print

Making mushroom prints is fun because it's a lesson in art and nature at the same time. When it's done, you have a lovely, colorful print to hang on your wall. Go to the supermarket and choose the biggest, most interesting mushroom you can find and get creative.

Things You'll Need

• Large portabella mushrooms
• 1 large sheet of white construction paper or poster paper
• Acrylic paints in colors of your choice
• 1 paintbrush or small sponge-brush for each color
• Clear acrylic spray
• Vinyl tablecloth or old newspapers

Instructions

1. Protect your working area with a vinyl tablecloth or a layer of old newspapers.

2. Remove the stem of the mushroom, and if any of the outer edge of the mushroom is curling down around the gills, break them off carefully with your fingers.

3. Dab acrylic paint carefully on the gills of the mushroom, using any color you like. Use a separate brush for each color.

4. Press the painted side of the mushroom gently against the paper, and repeat once or twice, or as long as the paint lasts.

5. Continue making mushroom prints with different colors until the mushroom print is completed.

6. Cut the mushroom into smaller pieces to vary the print, if you like.

7. Allow the paint to dry completely, and spray the finished mushroom print with a coating of clear acrylic spray to preserve it.

Tips & Warnings

• If you prefer to pick your own wild mushrooms, be sure they aren't poisonous and always wash your hands after handling any wild mushroom.