Chinese Fans

This quarter in my after school program, the kids are learning about different cultures.  Last week, I had them make Chinese fans.  It's super easy to prepare and make.  Also, the kids loved using the tissue paper.  This craft is perfect when teaching about the Chinese culture or Chinese New Year.



Here's what you will need:
~paper plates
~popsicle sticks (2 per person)
~elmer's glue
~Q-tips
~tissue paper (all sorts of colors)
~markers or crayons
~cups

Prep: You should take a damp paper towel or sponge and wet the whole paper plate, so it will flatten.  Let it dry for a couple minutes (I waited like 2-3).  As you wait, cut up tissue paper into small squares (1in x 1in).  Then prepare the glue the kids will be using.  Pour elmer's glue and a little water into each cup, so you have dilated glue.

Let the kids use the Q-tips as a glue brush to stick the tissue paper where they want it.  The tissue paper represents those beautiful flowers you see on Chinese fans.  After they are done attaching their tissue paper, let the kids decorated the rest of the fan with leaves, flowers, birds, etc.  Glue the 2 popsicle sticks to the fan.  I also used invisible tape to secure them.

The best part of this art craft is that this fan really works!
Here is a picture of some the kids and their fans!