The Green Art Project - Making Paint from Blueberries and Beets

Painting with Fruits & Vegetables

We like eating our fruits and vegetables. They can also be used to create gorgeous paints. Michelle Lawton, the founder of Stretch the Imagination, shared this recipe with us. Stretch is a much-loved learning center focused on art, yoga and music for children of all ages with locations in San Francisco and Marin counties.

Blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, and beets all work well to create non-toxic, safe paints for children to use to create their masterpieces on whatever recycled canvas you choose: the back of used wrapping paper or old greeting cards, the inside of a used shoe box or cardboard box.

If it is the right season, you can go berry picking locally or grow your own fruits and vegetables and then make paint and art from your harvest.

Here is the recipe for Berry Painting:

INGREDIENTS:

• Seasonal Berries – 1-2 cups
• Strainer
• Spoon or Fork
• Salt – A few pinches
• White Vinegar – a splash

DIRECTIONS:

Take fresh berries and mash them through a strainer. A large spoon is often best for younger children. A fork will also work. Once you have the juice of the berries salt can be added as a preservative. White vinegar can be used to bring out the color.

Here is the recipe for Vegetable Painting:

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 Bunch Red Beets
• 1 Bunch Golden Beets
• Salt
• White Vinegar

DIRECTIONS:

Red and yellow beets make beautiful paints. The beets themselves can also be used as fun stampers. Cut and peel beets. Cut in half to use as stampers.

Boil beets until the water is a vibrant color. Cut in small chunks for faster boiling. Add a few pinches of salt. Add a splash of white vinegar.

Use fruit and vegetable paints to create a work of art.Hoe H