8. Miniature Easels and Canvas Art
Nurture your child’s inner fine artist by building a miniature display easel, complete with a tiny cardboard canvas. This sophisticated yet simple project is perfect for older children who enjoy painting and want a professional way to display their miniature masterpieces on bookshelves or desks. You will need exactly three standard wooden sticks, one mini wooden stick, wood glue, a small square of thick white cardboard, and watercolor or acrylic paints.
To build the easel, arrange two standard sticks in an inverted “V” shape. Glue the third standard stick vertically down the center of the “V” to act as the rear support leg, angling it backward slightly so the easel can stand independently. Next, glue the mini stick horizontally across the front two legs of the “V” about two inches from the bottom; this horizontal ledge will hold the artwork. While the easel structure dries, cut a three-inch square of white cardboard or heavy cardstock to serve as the canvas. Let your child paint a miniature landscape, portrait, or abstract design on this canvas. Once dry, rest the tiny painting on the easel’s ledge for an adorable, gallery-worthy desk accessory.