If you like string art projects, you'll love this creative twist for making string art on canvas for a wall hanging.
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String Art on Canvas
This String Art project is fun for kids and adults alike. While this is a spray paint project, you can use alternative paints or dyes for younger children. Scroll down for the full tutorial and more information.
💭 Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions (and answers!) readers often ask about this string art project.
String art project starts with colored yard, thread, or other string that is strung between different points to create a pattern or design. String art patterns can be very intricate. Often, these projects are made using a wooden base and pins or nails, along with a stencil to help with the design.
In this case, we did use tape instead of pins or nails and made a very abstract design. For all these reasons, it's perfect to do with kids, provided of course that they have the proper safety equipment and supervision.
These string art ideas are a little unique since they use canvas instead of a block of wood. However, I think that the canvas allows you to be even more creative. You can use any size canvas you like. This one is 8x10.
Children can do this activity if properly protected and supervised. However, for younger children, I would recommend doing this project with Washable Paint Markers (paint daubers) instead of spray paint.
You could also use a Tie-Dye Kit and spray bottles and have the children spray the dye onto the canvas. You will still want to supervise children under 14.
This project is best done outdoors if you are using spray paint. Be sure to pick up a particulate mask. These are available at your local hardware store and are inexpensive.
Where to Hang String Art
This Canvas String Art project makes fantastic decorations for a playroom or bedroom! You can make a whole set of them using the color theme of your room.
✂️ Materials
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- canvas (I like to purchase this 8x10 Canvas Pack which saves me a little money)
- spray paints
- yarn or string
- masking tape
- scissors
- cardboard or plastic to use as a 'drop cloth'
- mask (you can pick these up at your local hardware store)
📋Instructions
Here's how to make your canvas project:
- Flip the canvas over and tape one end of the yarn onto the back using the masking tape.
- Turn the canvas back over and tightly wrap the yarn around the canvas in a random pattern. At times, you may need to tape the yarn in place on the back. For example, near the corners.
- Once you are satisfied with the way your canvas is wrapped. Place the canvas front side up on a piece of plastic or cardboard outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
- Wear a mask, spray the canvas with different color spray paints.
- Leave the canvas to dry completely, preferably 3 hours.
- Cut the string off and remove the tape from the back.
Optional* hot glue a string to the back if you wish to hang your string art on canvas project.
Creative Variations
This is one of my most favorite projects! It is a little more unique than typical string art, and there are so many ways you can use your creativity to make it your own.
- You could add puffy foam stickers to the canvas after the strings are all in place. Wait until the paint is completely dry before removing the stickers. This is particularly fun if you are hanging it in a room with a fun theme like dinosaurs or unicorns. (These stickers can be found at most craft stores).
- Another idea is to personalize them by using acrylic paint and putting your child's handprint in the center. Then use a Sharpie to write their name and the year for a special keepsake.
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Lady Lilith says
This looks like a lot of fun. A great way to mix science and art.
Jennifer Hubbs says
Hi! I was just wondering, how would you estimate the length of string or yarn you use per canvas? Just wondering in case I do this with a large group! Thank you!
Ang Paris says
The amount of string you use depends on how you want it to look... meaning you'll want more string for more lines on your canvas. It also depends on the size canvas you use.
Wendy Roth says
How would you do one with a hand print?
Ang Paris says
When the painting is done and dried, brush washable paint onto your child's hand and have him/her "stamp" the canvas with their hand. Have fun!