Handprint Christmas Tree

                                                        Handprint Christmas Tree


Ran across an idea online the other day for painting with the kids.  It is even cute if you don't have kids and want to use our own handprints.  ;)

The Handprint Christmas Tree:

Select your canvas or paper that you wish to paint on.  (I used cheap flat canvas instead of framed because it is easier to store with all the other seasonal items.  I also preferred something more durable, unlike paper. )

I used acrylic paint because it is easier to work with being a beginner, and I love how you can layer the paints. Choose which paint type and colors you would like to use.  The color choices are unlimited, nothing wrong with a purple tree!  ;)

Paint the background in any color you choose and let dry.  A tip to make drying faster: Set your blow dryer on a warm/hot setting and hold it away from the paint until dry.

Dip your hand in the paint to make the tree branches.  I used a flat surface and spread the paint out evenly across it to dip in.  The more even the paint is spread out, the better coverage you will have on the canvas.  

The best advice for making the tree branches is to start with a number of handprints on the bottom and minus one each layer up.  For instance, I started with four on the bottom, three on the next layer, and so on until I reached one handprint on top.  This allows you to make your tree as big and fluffy or small as you desire. 

Once the handprints are dry, you can dip your fingers in a different color (like red on mine) to make berries or any decorations you like.  You can even add tinsel!  Don't forget to add a border if you wish!
        
 There are many different things you can add to make this tree unique and yours.  The choices are unlimited which is why this is so much fun. Also any ages can do this.  I made this painting with my 16 month old's handprints, and I painted the rest for her.   HAVE FUN!