Patchwork Zoo

Handprinting – how to

Here are a few points from our experience. You or the teachers may have some other ideas (we would love to hear about them.)

  1. Set up outside or in a well ventilated spot.
  2. You will need
    • a table per number or aprons you are painting at once. Cover it in cardboard as the paint can go through the fabric.
    • a tub of warm soapy water and towel
    • a thick and thin paint brush per colour.(thick for hands, thin for names)
    • paint smocks for the children, make sure helpers wear old cloths, just in case.
  3. Have one child with one parent/teacher. Paint one hand with paint and place it. Once you get the hang of it you can manage painting both hands at once placing them carefully. ( This also depends on the age of the child.) Wash hands between colour changes. (Anywhere from 6 to 10 handprints looks good.)
  4. Paint the child’s name and date on the apron along the side or bottom. If the child is old enough they can do their own.
  5. Hang apron out to dry on a cloths line, fence or on the ground out of the way. They should be touch dry by the afternoon.