Cardboard roll stamps
Toilet rolls pinched into hearts, drops or circles to stamp painted patterns.
Age : age 3+; a grown-up can shape the rolls
Materials
- Empty toilet or kitchen rolls : One per shape and colour.
- Thick paint: poster paint or acrylic : Runny paint smudges.
- Flat plates or lids : A thin layer of paint per plate.
- Thick drawing paper
- Tape : To hold a shape that springs open.
- Apron and tablecloth
Steps
Make the stamps
- Circle: keep the roll as it is. It makes bubbles, wheels, eyes.
- Drop or leaf: pinch one side of the roll firmly all the way down.
- Heart: flatten the roll, then push one fold inwards and round out the two bumps.
- Square: flatten, open it again, then crease four even folds.
- If a shape springs open, wrap a band of tape around it.
Stamp
- Pour a thin layer of paint onto each plate.
- Dip the edge of the roll, without pushing it in.
- Press straight down on the paper, then lift in one go.
- Compose: five drops in a circle make a flower, a circle and two drops make a little critter to invent.
- Leave to dry flat, then finish with markers (stems, eyes, antennae).
For a picture to give: a single shape, three or four overlapping colours across the whole sheet.
If it goes wrong
- The print smudges : Thinner layer on the plate, thicker paint.
- Incomplete print : Press straight down; trim the edge of the roll with scissors.
- Shape loses its form : A band of tape, or a new roll.
Safety
- Poster paint and children's acrylic wash off while wet; dry acrylic stains clothes.
- Don't let little ones put painted rolls in their mouths.