Letter Collage Art for Kids

I loved doing this project with my kids! It’s also a great opportunity to talk about online inspiration versus real kiddo art. If you google “bean art kids”, some impressive results come up. It’s fine to use inspiration, but don’t set the bar too high. Instead of focusing on the final result, focus on your kiddo’s process and encourage them to create in their own way. Scroll down to see what my 2 children accomplished. :)

“B” created by a 4 year old.

“J” created by a 1 year old.

What you need

• Cardboard (the thicker the better)

• Dry Beans and Noodles

• Acrylic Paint

• Small Plastic Bags

• Liquid Glue

• Paint brush

• Cutting blade

• Wax paper

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Draw a letter on recycled cardboard and cut it out with a blade (use thick cardboard so it can hold the weight).

2. Paint the letter with acrylic paint and let dry.

3. Dye your beans and noodles using the plastic bag trick.

   • Put a handful of noodles or beans in a small plastic bag/

   • Pour one color of paint into the bag. Start small and add more as needed.

   • Zip it closed and massage the bag so the paint covers the items.

   • Dump it out and spread evenly on wax paper to dry. Repeat steps with as many colors as you want.

4. Prep is done! Now it’s time to invite your child to create. They can help with the prep but if your kids are like mine, they just like the project part.

5. Give your child the colored beans/noodles and a bottle of liquid glue. Instruct them to cover the letter. You can encourage them to create patterns or simply give them free rein.

My favorite thing about the project is giving my children the opportunity to have short creative sessions. There’s a lot of prep but once that’s all done, there’s little mess. You can leave it out and your child can add more at their own pace.

This project was inspired by looking at the lovely creations at Handmade Charlotte.

Thanks for stopping by. 😊 If you create this project and post it, tag me!