How to Make Natural Paint for a 12-Year-Old's Totem Pole Project

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Natural Paint

Making your own paint is a fun and creative way to bring your totem pole project to life! Here’s how you can do it step by step:

Materials You Will Need:

• Natural color sources (like berries, leaves, or earthy materials)
• Water
• Small jars or bowls for mixing
• A strainer or cloth for filtering
• A spoon or stick for mixing
• Paintbrushes
• Paper or a surface to test your paint

Step 1: Choose Your Natural Color Sources

Start by selecting items from nature that can produce color. Here are some examples:

• Berries: Blueberries for blue, blackberries for dark purple, or strawberries for red.
• Plants: Spinach or kale can create green, and turmeric can make yellow.
• Soil: Different types of soil can provide various earthy tones like browns and reds.

Step 2: Prepare the Color Sources

Wash your chosen natural materials to remove any dirt. For fruits like berries, mash them in a bowl using a spoon or your hands to release their juices. If using plants or soil, chop them finely.

Step 3: Extract the Color

Add a bit of water to your mashed berries or chopped plants. The general ratio to start with is about two parts color source to one part water. Mix it well to combine.

Step 4: Strain Your Mixture

Use a strainer or a cloth to filter out any solid pieces from the mixture. You want to keep just the liquid that contains the color. This liquid is your natural paint!

Step 5: Test Your Paint

Take a piece of paper or a small part of your totem pole you plan to paint and test your paint. Use a paintbrush to apply some of the paint. See if you like the color and consistency. You can adjust by adding more color source or water as needed.

Step 6: Start Painting Your Totem Pole

Once you're happy with the colors, you can start painting your totem pole! Use your natural paints to create vibrant designs and patterns. Remember to let each layer dry before adding more designs.

Extra Tips:

• If you want your paint to last longer, try adding a bit of corn syrup or vinegar to the mixture.
• Experiment with mixing different color sources to create new colors!
• Make sure to have fun and express your creativity!

Now you’re ready to make your own beautiful natural paints for your totem pole project. Enjoy painting!