Create beautiful, colorful art by using water and markers to bleed colors across coffee filters. Kids will learn about color mixing and absorption as the dyes spread to create a tie-dye effect.

Tools

• spray bottle
• small bowl or cup
• washable markers (1 pack of assorted colors)

Materials

• white round coffee filters (10 count)
• water (1 cup)
• paper towels (3 sheets)

Safety

• Adult supervision recommended when using spray bottles to avoid spraying eyes.
• Perform this project on a waterproof surface or use paper towels to prevent water damage to furniture.
• Adult supervision required for sharp objects.
• Adult supervision required for children under 8.

Steps

1. Lay a few sheets of paper towels on a flat surface to protect your table from water and ink.
2. Place one coffee filter flat on top of the paper towels.
3. Use the washable markers to draw patterns, scribbles, or dots all over the coffee filter. Leave some white spaces if you want the colors to stand out more.
4. Fill your spray bottle with water or dip a brush into the bowl of water.
5. Lightly spray the coffee filter with water, or carefully drop water onto the marker designs. Do not soak the filter completely; just add enough water to make the ink start to run.
6. Watch as the colors bleed and blend together to create a tie-dye effect.
7. Carefully lift the filter and set it on a fresh paper towel to dry completely.
8. Once dry, you can leave the filters flat or fold them in half and pinch them to make colorful butterflies or flowers.