He Made, She Made: Hand-Painted Invitations
All during childhood, I loved making cards for any and all occasions. I still do! I always signed the back with my signature symbol and name -- Courtney Watkins with a kite flying through it. (Yes, I had a logo in second grade!)
You'll need:
- Cardstock, in whatever color or designs you like
- Various drawing pens, whichever kind your prefer
- Watercolors and brushes
1. Start with your invitation message. I chose "Flip Your Lid." I've also done invitations in the past that said, "Birds of a Feather Flock Together" or "Guess What Time It Is? Fun O'Clock!" You could try something like "Rock Out!" or "Full Speed Ahead To Celebration Central." Let kids brainstorm and engage in word play as they come up with their invitations.
2. Now that you have your words, it's time to illustrate. For "Flip Your Lid," I drew a girl with different hat choices. It's really important to draw the design you want before you paint it; the line drawing beneath the watercolors gives the invite a unique flair and heightens its visual appeal. (Also, don't let kids fall into the trap of thinking they can't draw. Everyone can draw, and the more they do it, the more they will develop their own style.)
3. Now, paint over your drawing in watercolors. You can also use acrylics, or pastels. Just try something different from plain old markers because it will make your invitation feel extra special.
4. Additional Activity: Have kids design their own logos to draw on the back of the invitations (and any other cards they design in the future!)
Check Out Jonathan's Invitation.
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