Coffee Can Craft Tutorial

Okay, so I didn't participate in Paint With Me Thursday this week.  I just haven't been feeling very creative.  I've had a serious case of the Blah's.  Dylan would say, "Why, Mommy?  Why do you have the Blah's?  BUT WHY?  WHYWHYWHYWHYWHY...?"  He has entered into that magical stage, and I am finding myself praying for patience.  Lots of patience.  I do love curiosity, and I believe in asking questions, but pretty soon his only question is going to be "Mommy, WHY are you beating your head against the wall?"

I figured just because I'm not feeling creative, doesn't mean he is feeling the same way, so I asked if he'd like to do a craft today.  I considered it a success already when he didn't ask "WHY?", but simply answered, "YES!!"

So often, when doing crafts with children, we want them to do something WE would like.  Something charming, and precious, to hang on our refrigerator.  I'm warning you now, YOU might not enjoy this craft.  YOU might think I am slightly daft for even suggesting it.  Why?  Because it is slightly messy, and very noisy!  Which, of course, means that your kids will love it!

This is what you'll need...(An old coffee can, white paper, scissors, a pencil or pen, washable paint, something to put the paint in, and marbles). Cleaning off all the crap already on your kitchen table? Completely optional).

*Important Tip - If you are making this with a group of kids, or with a very impatient 3 year old boy, for goodness sakes, set everything up BEFORE you ask them if they want to do a craft.  There he was, sitting at the table, completely excited, and I realized I was going to have to run upstairs and get paper.  I asked him, "Do you think it is at all possible for you to just sit here and not touch anything while I go upstairs and get paper?!"  His answer?  "No, I don't think so".  At least he knows his own limitations.

First put the can on the paper, and trace some circles.  Make a bunch - trust me.  If your kids can cut, let them start cutting them out.  You'll have to cut the circles a little smaller for them to fit inside the can.

Put one circle in the bottom of the can.  Then, let your child dip each marble into a different color of paint and drop it into the can.  Once they've done that with each marble, put on the lid. (Make sure it is completely on!!)

Then comes the best part - the part you'll love me for - the shaking.

After accosting your ear drums sufficiently, they can take off the lid and see their masterpiece!

I like to recycle (I used paper he already colored on, but "messed up" on) so when they are done, let them use up the paint by painting a picture.

Remember, it's not really important if YOU love the craft. What is important is that they will have fun. Messy and noisy! Why ask Why, right?