Create beautiful art prints using a simple watercolor tape-resist technique — perfect for both kids and adults. This is an easy, satisfying craft you can use for camp activities, classroom projects, or at-home creativity.
I came across this watercolor idea while searching for easy camp craft projects for younger children. Design Dazzle’s “Summer Camp” series is full of fun craft inspiration, and one post from Centsational Girl suggested a clever tape-and-watercolor approach that sparked this variation.
My twist was to combine masking or painter’s tape with letter stickers to make bold shapes and words. Apply tape or stickers to watercolor paper, paint over the whole surface, let it dry, then gently remove the tape and stickers to reveal crisp, white designs against soft watercolor washes.
This technique works well for initials, short names, or simple shapes. For a group of kids at camp, inviting each child to do their initial or favorite symbol keeps the project personal and manageable. (I chose letters I expected would be less commonly picked to make a few unique prints.)
Another idea I adapted was making “birch tree” silhouettes by placing vertical strips of tape and then adding small horizontal marks after painting. That version was inspired by a post on It All Started with Paint and produced a lovely, natural look with minimal effort.
I hadn’t done much watercolor before trying this, but it’s an accessible medium — forgiving and easy to experiment with. Even beginners can get attractive results with just a few basic supplies and a little patience.
For very young children, try the crayon-resist watercolor method as an alternative: draw with white crayons or colored crayons on paper, then wash watery watercolor over the surface. The wax resists the paint and the drawn lines remain visible, offering another simple way to introduce kids to watercolor techniques.
How to do this watercolor tape-resist technique (materials and steps)
- Materials: watercolor paper (or heavy mixed-media paper), watercolor paint set, brushes, a cup of water, painter’s tape or masking tape, letter stickers or adhesive shapes, paper towels, and a flat surface for drying.
- Prepare the paper: Tear or cut watercolor paper to the desired size. Smooth any warped edges if needed and place the paper on a protected work surface.
- Apply tape or stickers: Arrange tape in geometric patterns, chevrons, stripes, or use letter stickers to spell initials or short words. Press edges firmly so paint won’t bleed underneath.
- Paint the background: Use wet-on-wet washes or more controlled brushwork — blend colors, create an ombré effect, or layer translucent washes. Encourage kids to explore color mixing and brush strokes.
- Dry completely: Let the paint dry fully before removing tape and stickers to avoid smudging. Speed up drying with a low heat source only if appropriate for your supplies and setting.
- Reveal the design: Carefully peel away the tape and stickers to reveal crisp white lines or letters. Press away any remaining adhesive gently if needed.
- Finish and display: Mount on cardstock, frame, or laminate for keepsakes. These prints make thoughtful handmade gifts or camp mementos.
For more camp craft ideas
- Explore easy watercolor painting ideas for beginners and simple techniques that work well in group settings
- Try plaster crafts as another hands-on activity for kids
- Collect a variety of easy summer camp crafts suited to mixed ages and skill levels
Summer at a Camp!
Summer at camp can be delightfully busy. The expression “lazy days of summer” doesn’t always match camp life, where schedules and activities keep everyone on the move. Still, crafts like this watercolor tape-resist project are great because they’re flexible, inexpensive, and produce beautiful results without a lot of setup.
I’ll do my best to balance camp responsibilities and blogging, but some days may be quieter than others. If you stop by and don’t see a new post, know that I’ll be back as soon as I can — and I always appreciate your comments and feedback.
If you’re enjoying a true lazy summer day, savor it — and if you’re managing a busy one, try carving out a short creative break with a simple watercolor project. It’s an easy way to make memories, teach a new skill, and bring colorful art home from camp.