Materials
Add a little bit of magic and science to your painting with an artistic representation of an oil and water experiment. In our example, we used this method to create hidden designs with a white crayon on a butterfly to leave secret words of encouragement and kindness. Scroll down to see Director of Education Miss Caitlin pair this project with a reading of “Waiting for Wings” by Lois Elhert.
Crayons or pastels (jut make sure the material you use is oil based)- Watercolor paint
- Paint brush
- Container for water
- Watercolor paper is ideal, but any painting paper will do.
- Craft sick, popsicle stick, doll pin, stick, or any object to make the body of the butterfly.
- Liquid glue, hot glue, or tape
- Pipe cleaner to make the antenna
Instructions
Cut the watercolor paper into a butterfly shape.- Using your oil-based material, draw your hidden design, picture, or message. Use a white crayon or pastel so that your design remains camouflaged. The harder you press down, the more it will be resistant to the watercolor.
- Add more color using the watercolor paint. Take the time to paint each side of the butterfly wing one side at a time to allow the watercolor to dry fully.
- Remember that for a darker and richer color use less water. If you want the color to be lighter, or to spread out, use more water.
- If you are using a watercolor pallet like the one seen in the photo, use only one color at a time and rinse of the brush between colors. This will help keep the colors clean and preserve the paint for future painting.
- As the watercolor paint meets the crayon or pastel marks, you will see how the oil repels the water, allowing any hidden marks to become visible.
- When both sides of the butterfly are complete, use your glue or tape to connect the body to the wings. Then wrap the pipe cleaner around the top of the body to create an antenna.