When I was first learning how to paint with watercolors I was taught a technique of adding salt to my painting to create an interesting design and texture. This little trick has stuck with me for years and popped in my head when I was thinking about ways to get festive for Valentine’s Day. This project is fun and simple enough to involve even the the tiniest of hands!

To make these lovely, and very versatile hearts, you will need:

• watercolor paints (any quality will do!)
• watercolor paper
• scissors
• paint brushes
• salt
• heart-shaped cookie cutter or stencil
• a jar full of clean water
• paper towels (to sop up excess water)

To get started, allow yourself to experiment with the paint. Try using concentrated amounts of paint in some areas and watered down paint in others.

Terese and I decided to limit the colors we used to create a Valentine’s Day palette (however, there was no limiting our helpers!).

Once you have painted an area of your paper, sprinkle the wet paint with salt.

The salt will create the most beautiful texture:

I recommend painting the entire paper to maximize the amount of hearts you can make!

Once you have finished your paintings lay them out to dry. When the paintings are dry turn them over to the backside and trace as many heart as you can fit on the paper. You may have some excess salt rub off of the paper, but fear not, the design will stay in tact!

Next, cut out all of your traced hearts. **Yes, mama needs a manicure!**

Voila! You have dozens of beautiful hearts!

With these babies, the possibilities are endless!

Sew them together to make garland. Glue them to card stock to make a special Valentine. Affix them to bags to make party favors.

I hope you’ll give this project a try! Let me know how it works out for you!

xo,

Pete