Mud Masterpiece: How to Paint With Mud

Let the kids get dirty by creating a mud masterpiece next time it rains!

Kids will love to get creative with mud right from your own yard ... and they'll probably be shocked if it's all your idea!

To make a mud masterpiece, head out after the next rainstorm to find a puddle. Then follow the instructions below!

(Note: Rainy days aren't necessary to create this craft. Just find some dirt and add a bit of water to make your own mud!)

^{Jessica Compton}

3-4 containers to hold your mud/paint
Mud (or dirt) collected from your yard
Garden spade or old spoon to scoop mud or dirt
Paintbrushes or foam brushes (Not a great craft for your best/professional brushes! Brushes designed for kid use or foam brushes work best.)
A cup filled with water (to clean your brushes)
Food coloring
A canvas to paint on (Any canvas will do. Good examples include poster board, butcher paper, or printer paper)

^{Jessica Compton}

Go outside to look for a puddle. Use your spade or spoon to scoop mud into your container. You don't need a large amount. Half a cup will do! You can play with the consistency by adding water, but mud will paint best if it is a little on the watery side. Thicker mud will peel off as it dries. If you can't find a puddle, scoop up about 1/4 cup of dirt. Add water to create your own mud.
Divide mud into separate containers.
Add a few drops of food coloring to each cup and mix. The creative part is you get to decide how much color to add!
Use your colored mud to paint! Let dry before displaying.

Pro Tip: This is a great outside activity to keep the mud out of your house.

If you do plan to paint indoors, cover the area with a plastic tablecloth to help keep the mess under control.