Happy Easter:)

We skipped St. Patrick's day art and went right into Easter crafts. The idea stemmed from this blog. We made Easter scenes out of cornstarch clay. Everyone seemed to enjoy it, even the older boys got into it after a while. They all had to include a cross plus four other elements representing Easter or Spring. Some got really creative and included the scroll on top of the cross and a crown of thorns and so on. To get them really into it, we decided that when they're painted and dry we'll have a vote/contest and the person who gets the most votes will get a chocolate Easter bunny:). So here are the directions and some pics. Enjoy, and thanks to those who have taken the time to comment. Encouragement is always welcome.

Clay Easter Scene

Cornstarch Clay Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1-1/4 cups cold water
• 2 cups baking soda
• Food coloring

Directions:

Mix all ingredients except paint in saucepan over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring constantly until thick (like mashed potatoes). Add food coloring to mixture. Remove from heat, turn out onto a plate and cover with a damp cloth until cool. Knead like dough. Store in airtight container. *I made 3 recipes of clay for 18 students*Also only cooked for 5 minutes with heat on 200-250. Not sure why it says 15 minutes because it got so thick I could hardly stir it after 5 minutes and it worked out great.*

Ration the clay between students.

Project:

Create an Easter scene including a cross plus three other elements which could include flowers, scroll on top of cross, grass, tree, birds, and crown of thorns. You can use a ruler or wooden skewer to cut out your shapes. Let it dry and have fun painting.