Activity
Turntable Art
In the age of CDs and MP3s, you probably think that the old record player in your attic is pretty useless. But they aren't just for rocking out! Did you know you could use an old record player to create beautiful, funky works of art? Place paper on the turntable, turn it on, and drop paint onto the paper to make an explosion of color! This creative project is a great way for your preschooler to experiment with color and movement.
What You Need:
- Record player
- Paper plate
- Tempera, or acrylic paint
- Turkey baster
- Plastic wrap
- Small plastic cups
- Water
- Pre-cut cardboard circle (1" larger than the turntable)
What You Do:
- Protect the arm and needle of your record player by covering them in plastic wrap.
- Protect the base of the record player by covering it with newspaper.
- Puncture a hole in the center of the cardboard circle and place it on the turntable of the record player.
- Pour a small amount of paint into a cup. Mix in a little water to make is slightly more liquified. Repeat this process for each color you plan on using.
- Help him puncture a hole in the center of a paper plate and place the plate on top of the cardboard circle.
- Have him carefully pour a small amount of paint, whichever colors he prefers, onto the paper plate. The more colors, the merrier!
- Encourage him to get messy! Tell him he can put a finger in the paint as the record player turns, or, if he wants, he can use his whole hand.
- Remove the painted plate and allow your little one's masterpiece to dry while he gets started on a whole new work of art!
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