Paper Plate Art Projects

Paint, glue and other embellishments transform a paper plate into a work of art.

Artists of all ages can find satisfaction in fashioning new creations from everyday items. Don't buy something the next time the urge to create strikes--a moment or two spent rooting around the kitchen cupboards can yield inspiration in the form of a humble white paper plate. Pull out the pile of paper plates taking up space in the pantry to discover a versatile yet inexpensive starting point for your next art project.

Seasonal Wreath

Completely cut the inner circle from a standard-size 9-inch-diameter, heavyweight coated paper plate. Discard or recycle the cut-out center portion. Paint the raised side of the remaining paper ring with green or brown paint. This ring, when dry, forms the base of the seasonal wreath. Gather items to attach to the base with a hot glue gun or strong craft glue. Select natural embellishments, such as acorns, colorful dry leaves and twigs for an autumn wreath. Shiny silver or gold tinsel glued to the base and topped with miniature tree ornaments make a winter wreath. Wind some pastel-colored lace around the ring base several times, secure it with a bit of glue and then attach silk flower blooms in an attractive pattern to complete a spring wreath. Choose whimsical pool or beach items, such as miniature drink umbrellas, sand and shells, for a summer wreath. Finish each project with a coordinating ribbon bow glued to the top or bottom of the wreath.

Percussion Instrument

Choose two matching paper plates for this art project. Have ready paint or markers, 1/8 cup any dried bean or rice, crepe-paper streamers and craft glue. Paint or decorate the bottoms of both paper plates. Allow to dry. Cut four to six streamers into 18-inch lengths. Turn the plates over. Pour the beans or rice into one of the paper plates. Drape the ends of the streamers over the edge of the plate so that they are side by side. Place the other paper plate on top, and then staple both together, making sure to staple the streamers as well. Conceal each staple with dabs of paint or with a glitter and glue mixture.

Seashell Fans

Choose a smaller, 6-inch-diameter paper plate and a wooden craft stick as the starting point for a fan. Cut one end of the plate along the edge in a wavy pattern to resemble a sea shell. Attach the stick with craft glue to the back of the plate. Choose pastel paint colors for this art project. Paint one side of the fan and let it dry, then paint the other side. An elegant effect can be achieved by spraying this fan with a pearl finish. Purchase pearl finishing spray at craft or hobby stores.

References

• Resources for Christian Teachers: Paper Plate Crafts

Resources

• Enchanted Learning