Make Spider Web Art!

Do you have an extra curious third grader?  Collecting spider webs is a fun way to preserve some of nature's greatest works of art explore some fascinating creatures. This craft provides a way to study these amazing architects' work.  Did you know that a spider uses its own body as a measuring tool when making its web?  Spiders often build a new web each day. 

This activity will take you and your child through the steps of collecting and preserving webs, but make sure there are no spiders present and if there are, be sure to gently nudge them away.  But don't touch or harm the spiders!  They are hard workers and are essential components of our ecosystem.

• Non-toxic white enamel spray paint
• Newspaper (to protect plants)
• A sheet of multi-colored construction paper for each web

1. Help your child locate an empty spider web and place newspapers around the area where you will be spraying paint.  You want to make sure you don't spray other plants or structures.
2. Carefully spray both sides of the web with a small amount of paint (it's best for a grown up to do this part, but with a little help your child can give it a try if she likes).  Spray gently and quickly in short bursts so that you don't break the web.
3. When you have fully covered the web in paint press the construction paper to the web and carefully pull the web away.  Allow the web to dry on the paper.
4. When you're spider web "casts" have been collected and dried, you'll be able to really take the time to explore these amazing creations.  Not only that, but you'll have some beautiful and interesting art work to display in your home.

Did You Know?