This fun Christmas themed activity lesson covers repeat printing (cross-curricular link to Maths) and gives step by step instructions on how to create a sheet of wrapping paper by potato printing. The lesson is designed to keep things as simple as possible - mess is kept to a minimum by using one printing colour only. You can use newsprint or brown craft paper as a cheap wrapping paper base, or even tissue paper if you want but this can tear more easily. You could simplify things further for younger students by preparing the potato stamps in advance (if students work in pairs, you could cut 15 potato stamps before the lesson). Tip: a pack of cheap wet-wipes is always handy in these lessons to clear away quickly.

Resources to support felt making in the classroom. There is an instruction sheet and a information sheet on felt making craft traditions around the world with a corresponding sheet with comprehension questions for students. Felt making is a brilliant textile craft to bring into lessons as it is very tactile and a ‘magic’ process whereby the materials transform as you work them. Resources needed for felt making are listed, and it should be possible to create a small sample piece over two lessons (one dry lesson, where the piece is created, and one wet lesson where it is felted). Originally created for a year 9 group, this could be used with GCSE students as a workshop too.

Aimed at KS4 and 5, this presentation is designed to accompany a photogram workshop giving artist links and information, simple instructions, weblinks for further research and potential techniques to develop and explore such as scanography, cyanotypes, silhouettes... Artist links include Anna Atkins, Man Ray, Laszlo Moholy-Nagy, Jenny Saville, Paul Morrison, Susan Derges. A really useful structure for the setting up of a practical workshop with guidance for students on writing-up and then developing their ideas through further techniques.

A four-page PDF resource (can be photocopied back to back and laminated for repeated use) on the artist Keith Haring. Can be used as a cover lesson during a relevant project (Pop Art, human figure, shape, movement, graffiti …), an extension activity, independent study, or as a whole class task. Students are asked to read the information about the artist and answer questions, then create pop-up card inspired by Haring’s work. Included are image source sheets and instructions to guide students through the process. Also included are idea to develop into further investigation. The lesson requires minimal materials (thick paper or card, pens, scissors and glue) and can be carried-out in a non-specialist classroom. A great introduction to an important 20th century artist whose work is inspiring and engaging for young people.

A fun art ‘colour theory’ word search PDF file with 13 key terms to find including complimentary harmonious pigment secondary primary tertiary These print well at A5 (two to an A4 sheet) so are an economical, fun way to embed student learning on literacy, extending vocabulary on any scheme of work. Also a quote from John Ruskin on colour. Great for a lesson starter, plenary, cover, literacy, homework, extension or use a word search to maintain focus during tidy up time!