6 Fun And Easy Art Ideas
By Lea Byrnes
Over my years of making art, I’ve tried tons of different projects and mediums. I’ve explored, failed, and tried again so many times! Throughout this process, I’ve uncovered several smart techniques that make it surprisingly easy to create an awesome piece of art! I’d like to share a few of these fun and cool art ideas with you today, to help you get started on making your own amazing work of art and tapping into your own unique sense of creativity. Let’s get started!
”Scratch Art” Painting
Looking for some nostalgic art to do? This technique will bring you back to the scratch art of your childhood! You know, those black sheets of paper that you scrape away with a wooden stick to reveal the amazing colors underneath? We are going to do that same thing; but this time, with acrylic paint on canvas. Begin by painting a colorful ombré background with 3 colors of your choice. Then, add an optional coat of glitter glue for an extra sparkle. Lay that out in the sun to dry, and when it is completely dry to the touch, you are ready for the fun part.
Get black acrylic paint, a large paintbrush, and a spoon. Yes, a spoon! That will be your scratcher tool. Coat about ¼ of the painting in a thick layer of black paint, and use the head of your spoon to scratch away any design you like. I like scratching a bunch of lines coming out from the center. It is important to complete this process in sections, especially if you are working on a large canvas; because otherwise your black paint will dry before you get the chance to scratch your design. Keep going at it in sections until the entire painting has been covered in black paint and scratched with your spoon.
When that is completely dry, you can either leave it as is, or paint anything you want on top. I’ve painted everything from abstract lines to flowers to bicycles on mine, as this has become one of my favorite acrylic painting techniques. The final product is full of texture, color, and shimmer! You’ve got to try this!
Mini Glitter Frame Drawing
This quick, easy project is so much fun and makes an adorable gift or decoration for your room! When I saw these mini 2” x 3” frames with floating glitter in them at Michael’s, I was instantly in love.
I recommend purchasing a few of them, and making some drawings with a cute theme such as positive affirmations. Cut out your mini drawings and put them in your frames. Voilà!
Paint A Thrifted/Antique Mirror
On a budget? Hit your local Goodwill or antique shop for an antique-looking mirror with a frame made out of wood, metal, or plastic. I found an amazing mirror for super cheap at my local antique store. They also have some cool ones on Amazon. Next, get some neon acrylic paint and create whatever your heart desires! I also chose to cover mine in two types of iridescent glitter glue for a little added sparkle. You may also cover with a varnish or topcoat of your choice. These mirrors are so much fun to make and look amazing in your home!
Mixed Media Collage
This is one of my favorite art projects of all time. When it comes to making a collage, you can truly do anything. Let your inner child explore with all types of materials, such as paint, stickers, paint pens, magazine trimmings, book pages, photos, fabric, sequins, ribbon, rhinestones, and anything else you can imagine! I love incorporating my drawings and paintings into my collages. You can use a thick paper such as cardboard, watercolor paper, or canvas as your base.
Rock Painting
Rock painting is a classic art idea for a reason! It’s simple, fun, and cheap. Just go outside and find some large, palm-sized stones that are flat and smooth. Then go crazy with the paints! I used glossy Mod Podge to varnish these stones my friend and I made for our church. We found that metallic paint looked really cool, and we also added glitter glue to some of them. This project makes for a fun group project, an awesome gift, and beautiful home decor!
Sunrise/Sunset Silhouette Painting
This has become one of my favorite art hacks ever! This technique is a simple way to make an elegant, stunning painting in only a few steps. This works best with acrylic or gouache paint on paper or canvas. You begin by painting a sunrise/sunset gradient in 3 colors of your choice. Then, you can add either a sun or a moon and stars. Pro tip: Stars can be flicked on with white paint using a toothbrush! Finally, using black paint, paint a silhouette of your choosing. This can be anything from a tree, to people holding hands, or a cat looking out a window. The possibilities are endless, and this painting is sure to impress!
I hope you will enjoy trying some of these fun easy art ideas, whether on your own or with a group of friends. Make sure to let us know if you try any of these out, and most importantly, remember to have fun!☺
Designs by Lea Byrnes Art
