Get kids creating a work of self expression with this framed art activity that uses dollar store supplies. Kids will enjoy making a one of a kind piece of framed art.

​Supplies for Framed Art

• 4×6 or 5×7 Dollar store picture frames (1 per artist)
• Sharpie Markers
• Paper 
• Pencil

How to Make Self Expression Framed Art

Prepare the paper by cutting it to 4×6 or 5×7 depending on the size of frame you purchased.

To start give each child a piece of trimmed paper and a pencil. Ask them to draw a design that represents themselves. Have them think about what makes them special. Do they play a sport? Can they sing? Do they live on a farm?

When kids have a few ideas about what they want to include in their design have them start a sketch. They can use pictures, colors, symbols letters or words. Make sure that the design covers the entire paper.

As kids finish their sketched design place the paper into a frame and give the children the sharpie markers. Have them to trace there original design onto the glass of the frame. Make sure they add lots of color to make the images pop.

I recommend fine tip sharpies. They are easier to use with details. Amazon has a 24 pack of sharpies that I used for this project. It was enough markers for a few kids to be working on the project at a time.  

When the artist is done remove the original paper and replace it with a blank paper.  Kids will love their one of a kind self expression project.When everyone has finished have each artist present their self-expression art to the group!

More Self-Expression Art Project

If you like this art project you make like making “This is me…silhouette“. This silhouette activity is a self awareness and art project in one. Use art as a medium for social and emotional development with this fun project.

If you like this art project you may like making a classroom quilt. This activity allows you to display the interests and hobbies of the children in your classroom by creating a one of a kind quilt. Grab some markers and a quilt kit to get started!