Introduction: DIY Watercolors

By denverlibrary.org/idealab
About: ideaLAB is the name of the Denver Public Library's free all-ages makerspaces. We have labs at 6 libraries around the city of Denver - Central, Hadley, Hampden, Montbello, Rodolfo "Corky" Gonzales, an…

Materials:

• Dried out markers*
• Jars or cups
• Water
• Paper
*or food coloring

Tools:

• Paint brushes*
• Pliers
* Or sponge, eye dropper, leaves, q-tips, etc.

Step 1:

Use pliers to pull on the tip or the back of the marker to remove the filament tube.

Step 2:

Soak the filament tube in a jar of water.

Step 3:

Time to paint. Use your imagination!

Step 4: Experiment 1

No paintbrushes? Make your own by clipping different materials with a clothespin.

Step 5: Experiment 2

Mix crushed chalk with water.

Step 6: Experiment 3

Try painting with coffee, tea, or wine. What else can you experiment with?