CRAYON ETCHINGS

GRADES 3-12

This project requires few materials, but lets the students become very creative. Colored drawings seem to spring like magic from a black background. A discussion of etchings should precede the activity.

An etching is usually done on glass or metal plates, using a sharp tool to make the image. Both materials are then coated in wax. The students will be using the same method, only substituting paper for the glass or metal.

MATERIALS:

• crayons of all colors (another chance to use broken crayons)
• black crayons to cover the drawing paper fully
• white drawing paper 8 1/2 x 11 or 9x12
• rulers
• pencils
• sharp objects such as a nail or screw for scratching through the crayon. (Dry ball point pens also work well).
• newspapers

DIRECTIONS:

• Distribute white drawing paper to all students. Have students draw a 1 inch border around the sheets to make for easier handling.
• Have students color in squares or bands of color. The color should be applied heavily to the paper--the heavier the application, the richer the color that shows through. The number of different colors is up to the student. There should be no empty spots on the paper.
• When the paper is totally covered, it is time to cover the colors with the black crayon. Students apply a very thick coating of black crayon all over the sheet. This is rather messy because the black crayon makes flakes. (Make sure that the students put their work on the newspapers to facilitate clean-up). The students should take their time covering the paper. None of the bottom colors should be showing through at this time.
• Have students make a small sketch of what they plan to do as their etching, so that they have a guide.
• Students then use the sharp object to draw through the black crayon to reveal the beautiful colors underneath.
  

The project requires a lot of elbow grease to cover the paper, but the extra effort taken produces beautiful colorful results. When finished have an art show in the room.

Lesson plan courtesy of Barabara Sonek
Homepage: Barbara's World Tour