Make Sun Prints
When sunlight interacts with our bodies, it warms us. When sunlight interacts with light-sensitive paper, it changes the color of the exposed paper and leaves a silhouette (like a shadow) of any object placed on top of the paper. In this activity, observe the sun’s energy while also experiencing nature and making art!
Materials
Directions
Have your child explore your yard or a nearby park and search for objects to use in your sun prints. Find objects with unique shapes or sharp edges to create silhouettes on the photo paper. As your child collects, point out the variety in shapes and sizes of the leaves, flowers, rocks and other items you see.
In a shady area, arrange your child’s chosen objects on sheets of sun art paper.
Press the clear acrylic sheet that comes with the paper kit on top of the objects before taking them into the sun. The sheet will hold the objects in place so they don't blow away or move around during the exposure time.
Leave the paper in the sun for three to five minutes, or until it turns a very light blue.
Put the papers into a tub of water for one minute. To turn the images a deeper shade of blue, add a few drops of lemon juice to the water (as suggested on the package).
After the prints have soaked for one minute, let them dry on a towel or hang them up with clothespins. Once completely dry, you can press them in a book for a day or so to make sure they stay flat.
Science
Arts