Prepare to be blown away by an awesome interactive art technique! Create rainbow-inspired handprints to decorate your space for spring or in celebration of Holi, the Festival of Colors!
Materials
Acrylic Paints
2-3 Straws
White Paper
Pen/Pencil
Scissors
Instructions
Step 1.
Gather the materials.
Step 1.
Gather the materials.
Step 2.
Trace your hand on the white paper.
Step 2.
Trace your hand on the white paper.
Step 3.
Cut the straws about 2 inches long for each paint color you’d like to use.
Step 3.
Cut the straws about 2 inches long for each paint color you’d like to use.
Step 4.
Dip one end of the straw into the paint — enough to cover the opening. Then, place your mouth around the other end and blow onto the piece of paper — repeat using as many colors as you’d like!
Step 4.
Dip one end of the straw into the paint — enough to cover the opening. Then, place your mouth around the other end and blow onto the piece of paper — repeat using as many colors as you’d like!
Step 5.
Let the paint dry completely, then cut out your blow paint handprint creation!
Step 5.
Let the paint dry completely, then cut out your blow paint handprint creation!
Teacher's Corner
Raise your hand if you’re ready to learn about the vibrant colors and traditions of Holi!
Lesson Objectives
Festival of Colors: Holi symbolizes the beginning of spring — bright colors are ushered in to celebrate the end of a dark winter. Gulal is the traditional name of the vibrant powders thrown about the streets on Rangwali Holi, the second day of the festival. Watch this explosion of color and happiness with your students!
Hands Together: Our craft uses straws to represent the colorful powders being thrown. However, if your students are feeling adventurous, let them paint their hands and press their print on the paper instead!
Follow-up Discussion
Holi originally started in Nothern India, but now it’s celebrated in Hindu communities around the world. As a class, listen to how Hindu children in Australia recognize this spring festival of color. Are there any Holi events in your communities?
