Have you ever heard of sun print paper crafts?
It’s this super cool activity that’s all about capturing the beauty of nature in a unique way.
Also known as cyanotypes, these nature crafts are not just easy and fun, but they’re a fantastic way to spend quality time with your family.
I absolutely love how engaging this activity is, turning a simple walk in the park into a treasure hunt for the perfect leaves or flowers to print.
It’s one of those family activities that’s not only enjoyable but also sparks creativity in everyone involved. Let’s dive into this magical world of Sun Prints and create some lasting memories together!
What You Need for Sun Print Crafting
Getting ready for Sun Print Paper crafts is part of the adventure and it’s super simple and inexpensive! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sun-sensitive paper: This magical paper reacts to sunlight, creating beautiful prints of whatever you place on it.
- Nature specimens: Go on a family scavenger hunt for leaves, flowers, or anything with an interesting shape. It’s a fun way to explore the natural world around you.
- Plexiglass (optional): A clear piece helps keep your items in place, especially on breezy days, ensuring crisp prints. You can also use sellotape to hold down the leaves or flowers.
Gathering the natural supplies is an opportunity to have fun and connect with nature.
Whether it’s in your backyard or a local park, collecting your nature specimens can be a mini-adventure in itself.
So, grab your supplies list and let’s get set up for an exciting crafting session!
Step-by-Step Guide: Nature Sun Prints
Creating Sun Prints is a magical process that’s both simple and fascinating. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you and your little ones started:
- Preparation: Start by finding a flat surface outdoors where you’ll be working. I like to use a big piece of cardboard as our base. It’s easy to move around and catches any spills during the washing process.
- Laying Out Your Design: Let your child unleash their creativity here. Arrange your nature specimens on the sun-sensitive paper. Remember, the paper is light-sensitive, so work relatively quickly but carefully. For younger kids, this is a great moment to talk about shapes and shadows. Older children might enjoy creating more intricate designs. Hold in place with sellotape or a piece of plexiglass over the top.
- Exposure Time: Once you’re happy with your layout, it’s time to let the sun do its work. The exposure time can vary, but bright sun usually works its magic in about 5 minutes. This waiting time is perfect for discussing how the sun affects the paper. I always remind my kids to handle the paper carefully to avoid smudging their designs.
- Washing Process: After the exposure, rush your prints inside and gently rinse them under water. This part always feels like a reveal on a game show! The areas covered by your objects will stay blue, and the rest will turn white. It’s a fantastic moment that never fails to amaze.
- Drying: Lay your prints flat to dry. This is when you and your child can admire your work and maybe even plan your next set of prints!
Throughout this process, I love to involve my kids in every step, from choosing our ‘artifacts’ to laying them out and watching the sun work its magic. It’s a wonderful way to blend art, science, and quality family time.
Creative Ideas for Sun Print Projects
Here are some creative and unique Sun Print project ideas that go beyond the basic prints, perfect for family crafting time:
| Project Idea | Description | Why It’s Great for Families |
| Framed Art Gallery | Create a series of Sun Prints and frame them to display in your home. | This project allows families to collaborate on a shared artistic expression, turning individual prints into a cohesive gallery. |
| Personalized Greeting Cards | Use Sun Prints to design the front of greeting cards for special occasions. | Crafting personalized cards adds a heartfelt touch to any message, and it’s a fun way for kids to express their creativity. |
| Nature-Themed Bookmarks | Make Sun Print bookmarks using smaller pieces of paper and nature items. | It’s a practical craft that encourages reading, and each bookmark becomes a keepsake item from your crafting day. |
| Fabric Cyanotypes | Try the Sun Print technique on fabric to create unique tote bags, t-shirts, or pillowcases. | Working with fabric cyanotypes introduces a new medium and results in functional art that kids can wear or use. |
| Customized Wrapping Paper | Use large sheets of Sun Print paper to create your own wrapping paper for gifts. | This idea adds a creative and personalized touch to gift-giving, making the wrapping as special as the present inside. |
Why You Should Try Sun Print Crafting With Your Family
It’s incredibly satisfying to see your sun print crafting creations come to life in just a few minutes.
The simplicity of the process means even toddlers can join in. Even my teenagers are always amazed by the results, proving it’s a hit with all ages.
This outdoor activity not only helps build a deep appreciation for nature but also serves as quality time spent together. Plus, it’s creative, educational, and surprisingly inexpensive.
So, why not make some space for Sun Print crafting in your family’s outdoor adventures? It’s a wonderful way to blend art, science, and togetherness.
Stephanie Simmons is an Anglo-American mum of two who is passionate about all things outdoors. She loves camping, outdoor crafting, and all outdoor activities.
Steph believes in getting the kids outdoors no matter the weather!
She created Wild Bloom Families to share her passion for the outdoors with other families.
Getting in nature can transform your physical health, mental health and happiness!
