This week in our Budding Artists program at the New Orleans Public Library, creativity blossomed as families came together to craft colorful papier-mâché harvesting baskets. The session was full of laughter, learning, and lots of gluey fingers as we explored a hands-on project using simple, earth-friendly materials.

Children and their caregivers began by using balloons as the base form for their baskets. We mixed flour and water to create a paste, and then layered recycled newspaper strips over the balloons to build the structure. Children had a variety of materials to explore, using vibrant colored tissue paper, soft silk flowers, and delicate dried flowers in their sculptures.

Not only did this activity spark imagination, but it also introduced young artists to the value of repurposing everyday materials. The end result was beautiful, one-of-a-kind baskets perfect for imaginary harvests, nature walks, or displaying at home.

The Budding Artists program continues to be a joyful space for families to bond, create, and celebrate the beauty of art and sustainability. We can’t wait to for next week when we’ll be painting bird feeders made from repurposed materials!