Earth Day Craft: Bubble Wrap Art

Bubble wrap has a reputation as a stress reliever. (Isn't it so therapeutic to pop those bubbles?) But here, we're using bubble wrap to create a work of art!

Kids will love experimenting with different colors and seeing the unpredictable print that bubble wrap can leave. We suggest using an artist's canvas to create wall art for this project, but you can cut bubble wrap to fit practically any paper surface including greeting cards and easel paper.

What you'll need:

• Upcycled bubble wrap
• Scissors
• Paper plate
• Poster paint
• Sponge roller
• Artist's canvas or other paper surface

Instructions:

1. Use scissors to cut a piece of bubble wrap that's roughly the size of the surface on which you plan to print.

2. Pour a small amount of poster paint onto a paper plate. You'll want just enough to create a thin layer on the plate. Tilt the paper plate back and forth to evenly distribute the layer of paint. Don't worry about doing this perfectly; you'll have another opportunity to even out the paint in the next step.

3. Roll the sponge roller around on the plate, continuing to distribute paint evenly. Roll in different directions to make sure the paint is evenly distributed on the sponge roller, as well. The paint should not drip from the sponge roller.

4. Turn the bubble wrap with the smooth side down, bubble side up. Roll the paint onto the bubble side. Paint can be rolled out in sections of the bubble wrap or cover it completely. That's all up to your little artist!

5. Repeat steps 2-4 to add additional colors on the same bubble wrap, if you'd like. Be sure to rinse the sponge roller between color changes. You'll also want to use a different plate for each new paint color so that the colors do not run together.

6. When kids are pleased with the bubble wrap colors, press the bubble wrap lightly onto the surface, bubble side down. Be careful not to press too firmly, otherwise the paint could smear and lose the bubble-like effect.

7. Allow the masterpiece to dry.

8. If kids want to continue to create, other layers of painted bubble wrap can be added on top of the first coat.