10 Fun and Imaginative Ways To Repurpose Your Child's Artwork by Jenn Talis
If you’re like me, you probably have stacks of your kids’ artwork lying around —colorful, chaotic masterpieces too precious to toss. But let’s be real - we can’t frame every single one. Here are 10 fun and imaginative ways to repurpose those artistic gems into meaningful creations.
1. One-of-a-Kind Gift Wrap
Gift-giving takes on a new level when you transform it into an art form. Add a personal, special touch to a gift that also allows your kids to share their creativity with others. Let your kids select the perfect art piece that suits the occasion or gift recipient. What a wonderful surprise when they receive a present wrapped in a masterpiece created by your little artist. It’s a surprise within a surprise!
2. DIY Celebratory Banner
Give your kid’s art a festive flair by turning it into a celebratory banner. Choose several pieces of art and cut them into flags, fun shapes, or even letters spelling out celebratory messages. Attach them to a string or ribbon, and voila - you have a custom-designed banner perfect for birthdays, holidays, or joyous occasions. It’s a great confidence booster for your kids to see their art showcased in a way that everyone can admire.
3. Make an Ornament or Gift Tag
Get your craft on and turn those little drawings into charming ornaments or gift tags. Fold them, cut them, punch a hole, some ribbon - and you’ve turned artwork into delightful decorations or gift tags that will make your presents stand out in the crowd.
4. Artistic &. Memorable Notecards
Best for the sturdier pieces of art created on cardstock or watercolor paper, make a stack of custom-made cards ready for any occasion. These can be flat cards or bi-fold; it’s up to you! Whether it’s a thank you note, a birthday wish, or just a simple hello, these artistic notecards will make your note memorable.
5. Collaging Fun
Take your kid’s art to the next level by creating a vibrant collage. Mix and match different drawings, cut them into various shapes and sizes, and even throw in some magazine clippings, stickers, and acrylic gems for added flair. Use the collage to embellish the cover of your journal, folder, canvas, or any other surface that sparks your creativity. The possibilities are truly limitless!
6. Puzzle Play
Depending on your kid’s age or abilities, you may want to use art pieces with less detail. Think more color blobs, less scribbles. Create a custom puzzle by gluing the art piece onto a sturdy piece of cardboard and cut into puzzle pieces. If you have one large enough, you can use a cereal box too which will be easier to cut. This is great way to combine creativity and problem-solving!
7. Play Dough Mat
Laminate their drawings to create an artistic placemat perfect for play-dough activities. No laminator? No problem! Just use some packing tape.
8. Make Paper
This is for drawings made with crayons, markers, and pencils. Tear paper into small bits and throw in a handful into a blender filled with water. Let it soak for about an hour and blend into a pulp. Strain the pulp and use a cheesecloth to squeeze out the excess water. Spread a thin layer of pulp on a splatter screen or window screen over a bowl to catch the water. Place a towel on top to absorb any extra water. Flip the screen onto a piece of parchment paper so that the pulp transfers over and let fully dry.
9. Decoupage Coasters
Apply your kid’s art to a tile or wooden round using your preferred decoupage techniques. Perfect for self-portraits, flower or animal drawings. Don’t forget to add a felt sheet or circle to the bottom of your coaster so it does not scratch your surface. This is an easy way to seamlessly integrate their masterpieces into your living space.
10. Bookmarks
Cut your kid’s artwork into bookmark-sized strips and laminate them for a durable and personalized bookmark. Remember, you can also use packing tape if you don’t have a laminator. This is a delightful way to encourage reading while showcasing their artistic talents. It makes a thoughtful gift for the bookworms in your life too!
Repurposing your kid’s artwork goes beyond merely organizing and decluttering your space; it’s a joyous celebration of their boundless creativity and a powerful confidence booster. By embracing these ideas, you’re instilling in them the idea that their creations have limitless potential. You are fostering an environment that encourages them to think creatively and innovatively.
Jenn Talis, a Latina mom of two, is the creative mind behind Crafting with Crazy, where she fosters a warm and welcoming community for anyone to tap into their inner artist and unleash their creative genius. She is frequently featured on Crayola's social media channels and was recently a guest on their Craft and Chat series. She encourages others to embrace their creativity, regardless of their skill level, and to find joy in the process of creating. Whether it's a simple craft project with your kids or a more ambitious DIY project, Jenn believes that everyone has the potential to create something amazing.
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