Looking for a fun and creative DIY art project to do with your kids or on your own? This glue gun and watercolor painting technique is not only easy but also adds a beautiful, textured effect to your artwork. Follow these simple steps to turn ordinary designs into vibrant masterpieces!
[Scroll to the bottom for free printable coloring pages]
Materials You’ll Need:
- Pencil (if drawing your own)
- Paper (preferably watercolor paper but regular is fine too!)
- Printer (use our free outlines below!)
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Watercolors
- Paintbrushes
- Cup of water
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Draw Your Design
Start by lightly sketching out your design with a pencil on your paper. Don’t worry about perfection here — your pencil marks will eventually be covered by the glue. You can create simple shapes, intricate patterns, or even outline characters. This is a great time to get the kids involved and let their creativity flow!
OR
Print out a fun outline! You can use our free samples below or find any you like online. Try to find ones with simple lines and patterns so that the next step doesn’t take too long.
2. Outline with Glue
Heat up your glue gun, and once it’s ready, carefully trace over the lines with the hot glue. The glue will form raised, textured outlines on your paper, so take your time to get smooth, steady lines. Be sure to let the glue cool and harden completely before moving on to the next step.
> Tip: Test the glue gun on a scrap piece of paper first to ensure the glue flows easily and the lines are consistent.
3. Add Watercolor
Now for the fun part! Once the glue has dried, it’s time to paint. Using your watercolors, fill in the spaces between the glue outlines. The glue acts as a barrier, keeping the watercolors from bleeding into one another, which is great for creating sharp, defined shapes. Experiment with different colors and blending techniques to make your design pop.
> Pro Tip: Try using wet-on-wet watercolor techniques for softer gradients or wet-on-dry for bold, bright color application.
4. Let Your Masterpiece Dry
Once you’ve finished painting, set your artwork aside and allow it to dry completely. The texture of the glue outlines combined with the fluidity of the watercolors creates a stunning, unique effect that will make your art stand out!
Final Thoughts
This glue gun and watercolor technique is a great way to explore textures, colors, and creativity. Whether you’re doing this as a family art project or looking for a simple way to add a new dimension to your paintings, the results are always eye-catching. Plus, it’s a fantastic activity for kids to practice fine motor skills while having fun with art!
Have you tried this technique? Share your creations with us in the comments or tag us on social media! Happy creating!
[Click here for some free printable coloring pages]
