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Tissue Foil Shine

Tissue Foil Shine

Intro
Create collage artworks with a little added shimmer! This unique activity has children
creating artwork on a unique canvas: aluminum foil. The result is a unique and unusual
artmaking experience.

 

Set Up ideas
Prepare for this activity by filling several craft cups with watered down white school glue
and provide tissue paper. You may also wish to provide old magazines for children to find
interesting images for their collages. Old wrapping paper and tissue paper with unique
designs are also great options!

Let’s Get Started
Provide children with enough aluminum foil to cover the tagboard completely, plus a little
extra to fold back over the tagboard once their artwork is complete.

 

Tips and Tricks
Since the foil is flexible, another option is to wrap 3D objects with the completed artwork.
Small boxes, figurines and cups are just a few possible ideas.
Using extra-wide foil is also a great way to turn this project into a mural or table covering.

Follow up Activity
Perform an art exhibition with the children’s creations! Display children’s artworks
throughout the room and encourage them to discuss their artistic choices and what they
think about their finished product.

 

Children may choose to depict an actual scene or simply create abstract artwork.
Whichever they choose, it might not be so clear to you as an outside observer. Ask
questions and have them explain to you whether they are depicting something real or
creating something abstract.

Steps:

  1. Fold the edges of the foil back over the tagboard and tape them down – this strengthens
    the foil.
  2. Begin by cutting interesting shapes or tearing pieces of tissue paper into strips and
    shapes.
  3. Mix some washable school glue with a little water to thin it out. Lay the tissue paper from
    the previous step onto the shiny side of the foil, and then brush the glue mixture over the
    image to adhere it to the foil.
  4. Children may wish to create a scene using specific shapes and objects or a completely
    abstract design. Leave some foil showing for a shimmery effect. Allow the childrenÂ’s
    artwork to dry completely.