print add to favorites

by Laureen Mahler
Topics: Nature, Third Grade, Fourth Grade, Science, Arts and Crafts, Outdoor
You have the Nature Merit badge

The sun is fascinating on its own, but it can also be an incredible tool for budding artists. By using the tried-and-true method of sun printing, you and your child will create silhouette style prints using sunlight and everyday objects! This fun hands-on activity provides an intriguing balance of science and art in a super fun way; it teaches your child how the sun's light affects the objects around her, and it also serves as an introduction to image transfer techniques and the photographic process.

What You Need:

  • Sun Print paper (available at most art or science stores, or online)
  • Objects to place on the paper (like flowers, scissors, keys, leaves, key chains, etc.)
  • Water

What to Do:

  1. Collect objects that will provide the silhouettes for your image transfers. Anything can be used, but the transfers will turn out the best if the object can lie flat and it not translucent. Try experimenting with a variety of shapes and materials, or collect items that work together to form a single larger image! Just make sure that the objects you choose will fit on the Sun Print paper.
  2. Find a flat, sunny spot outside to set up. The best spot is one without trees or other structures around that will create shade over the project as the sun moves across the sky.
  3. Place the Sun Print paper on the ground and put your objects on top of it, arranging them however you like.
  4. After a few minutes in the sun, remove the objects from the Sun Print paper and immediately rinse it with water. This works well if you're outside near a hose. The water sets the image and ensures that the transfers don't continue to process. You'll end up with a unique piece of artwork that's sure to get everyone's attention!
  5. Alternative: for an added learning experience, use the Sun Print paper to test how well sunscreen works! Gather several different brands of sunscreens with several SPF strengths, and spread them on a sheet of Sun Print paper, making sure to label each sample. Leave the paper in the sun for one hour; when it's done, the sunscreen sample that is the least blue is the most effective. Be sure to use that one next time you go to the beach!