Coaxed open by raindrops, umbrellas bloom like flowers in spring. Your child can turn hers into the prettiest of them all by painting it with a fanciful pattern. It only takes a few supplies and a child-size umbrella. Give kids this absorbing activity, and on the next wet day, they can show off their handiwork in the rain.
Umbrella How-To
You will need a kid's nylon umbrella (paint won't stick to a plastic one), paintbrushes, and permanent waterproof paint, such as fabric paint or acrylic. Follow the manufacturer's directions: Some fabric paints require the addition of fixative; others require ironing the umbrella after painting. Carefully cover the work surface with newspaper before you begin, and have your child wear a smock. Once finished, keep the umbrella open overnight; the paint must dry completely before you close it or use it.
I think permanent markers may be a better way to decorate an umbrella. My favorite rainy day activity is making tissue paper flowers- love them!
There are several waterproofing sprays that might help keep the paint longer if used on the nylon.
I've done this as a farewell gift to a business colleague -- had everyone sign a dark umbrella with permanent metallic marker pens. It was a big hit and looked terrific!
How about using glow-in-the-dark paints on the inside of a clear umbrella? That would be very cool ! I tried painting (with heat set paints) a nylon umbrella 15 years ago, but the iron melted the nylon. So I would NOT recommend heat. Try permanent fabric paint marker pens. You'll have the permanence of fabric paint, but the dexterity of pens. Painting on the inside is a great idea. I have an umbrella that has the sistine chapel on the inside. I got it years ago through a catalog, and it's a wonderful idea!
There are crafter size paints for plastic which might work on the clear umbrellas.
How about permanent markers? I can't get that stuff out of fabric, no matter what I try
Fabulous idea! Perfect project when the weather is't great and kids are anxious to get outside to play. :)
My other suggestion was the same as JJWLTN's... use see-through plastic umbrellas and paint on the inside with a paint that would hold to vinyl. Those would be really cute!
My last comment was a lot longer...wonder why it didn't print the entire thing?
really cute idea for a girl's bday party....I would think fabric paint would stay...may need to wash
What if one were to paint the "inside" or underside of the umbrella?
The artist might be even more inclined to use it as a sunblock and it should then withstand a moderately heavy rain shower as well.
Always look forward to these " ... of the day" ideas! They are always fun to consider.
I saw a similar project on Carol Duval. She recommended that the umbrella be used primarily for shading. A light rain is ok, but the paints probably won't hold up. They also used the same type of paint as used in this project. I love the idea of this, but realistically, the only time I use an umbrella is when it is raining and want something that won't wash away. Has anyone tried this? Thanks!