If you are searching for an activity to battle boredom, create some beautiful watercolor pillowcases with just a handful of materials. This would be great project to do with a group of kids at a birthday party or just at home on a rainy day. Each pillowcase will turn out different, and kids will love being surprised at how their creations look in the end!
Materials Needed:
- Rubbing alcohol
- Sharpies
- White pillowcases
- Spray bottle
Step One: The first step is to color the pillowcase with the Sharpies. Insert a piece of cardboard or paper bag inside the pillowcase to protect the backside. The heavier and more saturated the Sharpie application, the better it will bleed later to create the watercolor effect. You definitely can leave some areas white as well.
Step Two: Now you are ready to begin applying the rubbing alcohol. Fill a spray bottle with alcohol and saturate the pillowcase. Make sure to do this in a well ventilated area or outdoors! As the pillowcase sits, the colors will continue to bleed.
Step Three: After the pillowcase is dry, you may want to add another application of alcohol to continue the bleeding process. You also can try pouring it directly on the case in a bowl or pouring alcohol on specific sections where you want more bleeding to occur.
Step Four: Once the pillowcase is fully dry, set it with a hot iron for five minutes or throw it in the dryer for 20 minutes. This will set the Sharpie and allow you to wash it without fading.
Megan Kapple is a blogger from Kansas City, MO, where she lives with her husband and three young daughters. She loves anything DIY and crafty and blogs about her adventures at HomemadeGinger.com.