It’s always fun to create something new, and almost every child is a natural artist. So, a party themed around an arts and crafts project can make any celebration very special.

You don’t have to be an expert to lead a group in a fun project. There are many fun, easy ideas that everyone will enjoy.

Acrylic paints are easy to use. They clean up with water, and give bright, clear colors. They do make a bit of a mess, and they permanently stain clothes, so paint shirts or smocks are a must. You can buy the least expensive paints. They work great, and come in hundreds of colors. Make sure to buy lots of white, since most colors mix with white to some degree.

Terra cotta flowerpots are great to paint. They take the paint well, and can be used to grow a little private garden, or as a fun container for bedroom, desk, or bath. If the kids want to paint a background color all over the pot, encourage them to use inexpensive foam brushes, for a quick, overall coat of paint. Then use brushes, or even cotton swabs to add details. If you are using them as a treasure container, glue a little felt circle on the bottom to prevent scratching and cover the drainage hole.

Special acrylic paints are made to paint on plastic. (Traditional paints flake off too easily). Pick up plastic hand mirrors, paint them up, and let the kids add silk flowers, little “gems,” sequins, or buttons! Or get some “permanent” style plastic glasses and plates, and let them create their own table setting.

Collage is a great medium. Old magazines, tissue paper, found items, glitter, feathers, and other inexpensive objects make great supplies. There are many papier-mâché shapes readily available at craft stores. Flat doorknob hangers personalize a bedroom door. Plant stakes are great to decorate. With the youngest kids, use glue sticks. With older kids, use decoupage style glue for a finished look on little boxes or wooden trays.

Polymer clay is plastic clay that cures hard in your oven at a low temperature. It’s great for kids and adults. It comes in many colors, and it’s soft and easy to use. The easiest project is to make refrigerator magnets. Start with a small ball of clay; press it flat like a cookie. Then add eyes, a nose, a mouth, and hair, whatever. Bake according to package directions and use a hot glue gun to attach a little button magnet to the back! It’s good to plan for two 2-ounce bricks of clay per artist. There are literally hundreds of polymer clay projects. Check out the book section of the craft store, or go to the supplier’s site at www.sculpey.com.

Whatever your project, there are several good supplies to keep on hand. The best tip is to stock up on cheap plastic, disposable tablecloths, available at your local 99-cent store. When the project is all done, roll up the debris and the mess, and toss it all out, neatly. Inexpensive paper plates are also a must. They are great for mixing paint, holding glue, holding projects and supplies. “Popsicle” style craft sticks are great for mixing paint, spreading glue, and more. The least expensive paintbrushes, those sold by the dozen for a dollar or two are just too stiff and hard to use. Get better ones for the best results.

Use this rule of thumb for time spent on projects: 5-6 year olds can focus for about 20-30 minutes, 7-9 year olds can work for 45 minutes, and older kids can enjoy a fun project for nearly an hour.

If you are not quite ready to tackle this event all by yourself, there are many resources. Toy and craft stores have fun kits, many especially made for groups. Some art stores offer classes and parties. The CollagE Art Studio is a great place for parties. They design the project, provide you with all your supplies plus gentle instruction and help all through the party. They are also happy to help you host your own event. Questions? Check out their web site at www.collageartparties.com, and send an email.