Place in Your Face: Symbolic Self-Portrait

This is a 3rd or 4th grade project...the kids love it.

Day One: Collect magazine images and I trace their silhouette.
Day Two: Tear, cut and collage magazine images into silhouette.
Day Three: Cut head out and glue to a 9x18 colorful background. Also, on day 3 I encourage them to add words to their collage...their name or important words or phrases.

We use matte or glossy mod podge with large flat brushes. 

Did I mention this is a messy project? 

I love how bizarre this one is. 

More photos from other classes...

They take two days to completely collage the head. On the second day if someone works quickly, I have them find the letters of their name and also collage 3 words to describe themselves and/or a phrase about them.

 Example: I am an artist. 

Monograms with 4th Grade

I usually love this project. Some classes are making it really great...and others well...lets just say it's the end of the year. 

We spend the first day of this project designing our initials. The next day, we transfer the design to the burlap and learn how to thread an embroidery needle and tie double knots. (A single knot usually pulls through the burlap...)

Day Three: Start straight stitching. I get them to do a pattern similar to weaving...they count over 3 squares on the burlap and they stitch under one 'line' of the burlap. It makes their stitches look consistent and it's easier then stitching up and down. 

The goal is to get all letters outlined first, then they can start experimenting with different stitches. I teach them satin stitch, french knots and cross stitch once they all get the hang of straight stitch. 

Usually the kids pick it up quick and enjoy working on these. It is a good thing to work on during TCAP...keeps them pretty calm.