Colorful paper insects on a vibrant green background, showcasing artistic creativity.

Mirror Stamps of Insects

Create colorful, symmetrical bugs using this creative stamping technique.

Objective: Bring these bugs to life! Students will learn to create colorful, symmetrical bugs using a creative stamping technique. This project gives students the opportunity to work with two types of paint as well as other materials.

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Dixon Ticonderoga Materials:

  • Prang® Mixed Media Journal, 60 sheets of 11" x 8-1/2", #P2363
  • Prang® Oval 8 Watercolors, #X00800
  • Prang® Washable Ready-to-Use Tempera Paints, 8 oz
    • X10801 Red
    • X10802 Orange
    • X10803 Yellow
    • X10804 Green
    • X10805 Blue
    • X10806 Violet
    • X10807 White
    • X10808 Brown
    • X10809 Black
    • X108010 Magenta
    • X10811 Peach
    • X18012 Turquoise Blue
  • Prang® Prang® Paint Brushes, 5 count, #X94005
  • Prang® Prang® Markers, 8 count, #X80680
  • Prang® Prang® Sketcho Oil Crayons, 12 count, #X11660

Other Materials:

  • Scissors
Image of Step 1

Step 1

Take a sheet of Prang® Mixed Media Journal paper out of the journal. Trim away the frayed edge so the paper measures 8 inches whide by 11 inches tall and print one of the insect templates onto it.

Image of Step 2

Step 2

Paint the entire insect using Prang® Oval 8 Watercolors. Let dry.

Image of Step 3

Step 3

Cut out the insect using some scissors.

Step 4

Fold the insect in half and open again, creating a crease.

Step 5

Paint designs on half of insect using Prang® Washable Ready-to-Use Tempera Paints.

Step 6

Fold the insect in half, pressing the painted side down lightly onto the unpainted side. Unfold and let dry.

Image of Step 7

Step 7

Using Prang® Sketcho Oil Crayons or Prang® Markers, complete your insects with final details.

National Core Arts Standards

Creating, Anchor Standard 1
Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.

Creating, Anchor Standard 2
Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.

Creating, Anchor Standard 3
Refine and complete artistic work.

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