STEP-BY-STEP PROJECT
JUST FLIP IT
This project will have you and your child “flipping out!” The flip cup technique is similar to a dirty pour: All of the paint mixtures are poured into a single cup. However, instead of pouring the single cup of paint onto the canvas, the cup is flipped upside down to let the colors ooze out like an upside-down ice-cream cone melting on concrete.
STEP 1
Have your child set up the creative space by placing a sheet of wax paper on a tray and laying the canvas on top of cups. Then pour the paint colors of your choice into individual cups.
STEP 2
Add pouring medium to each cup of paint following our usual ratio of 21/2 parts pouring medium to 1 part paint. Add a small splash of water and mix thoroughly, ensuring that there are no clumps. If your child wants to add cells to the design, replace the water in each paint mixture with a splash of rubbing alcohol or 1 to 2 pumps of dimethicone. Mix thoroughly.
Now your child can pour the paint colors into a single cup, layering the colors on top of each other. Lightly stir the colors once, or leave them as-is. Do not overmix!
STEP 3
Let the magic begin! Help your child hold the canvas upside down over the cup with one hand holding the canvas and the other holding the cup.
STEP 4
Your child might need your help with this step as well. When your child is ready, the cup and canvas can be flipped over, leaving the cup to rest on top of the canvas. The cup can sit there for a minute or two—or not! You and your child will love watching the paint colors ooze out of the cup!
STEP 5
Have your child gently pull the cup away from the canvas, revealing total awesomeness! Ta-da!
STEP 6
Your child can now pick up the canvas and slowly tilt it to let the paint flow over the entire surface of the canvas, as well as on the sides. Once your child is happy with the design, place the canvas back on the cups to dry completely.
