Materials
Paint smocks
Tempera paint in various colors
Foam meat trays
Dishwashing liquid, optional
Assorted nuts and bolts
Construction paper
Instructions
What to do
1. Ask the children to put on their paint smocks.
2. Pour a small amount of paint into the trays, covering the bottom of each tray with a thin layer. A
small amount of dishwashing liquid added to the paint minimizes clean-up and clothing stains.
3. Place a few nuts and bolts in each tray.
4. Invite the children to print designs on paper with the nuts and bolts, reminding them to return
each nut or bolt to the tray where it belongs.
5. Encourage the children to experiment with the technique, overlapping designs and colors.
More to do
Math: Count and sort nuts, bolts, screws, and washers. Classify tools by their use on a chart.
More art: Add finishing touches to the prints with markers or crayons. Cut the printed paper into
the shape of various tools. Design wrapping paper with the nuts and bolts technique. Create collages
with discarded nuts, bolts, and similar materials.
