
Summer is here, and what better way to spend those sunny afternoons than sparking creativity with a fun and colorful craft project? Our “paint splat desert scene” tutorial is an easy, messily fun, and visually stunning craft idea that kids will absolutely love.
With just a few materials, your kids can create their own picturesque desert oasis while exploring the wonders of color and texture.
Craft Supplies:
Before you start, gather the following supplies:
- Blank Cactus Printable – from our landing page
- Green Cardstock Paper
- Scissors
- Large Paper Plate
- 2-3 Colors of Tulip Puffy Paint
- Loose Craft Glitter
- Black Marker
- Stapler
- Embellishments
Pro Tip: Set up your painting station outdoors or use disposable tablecloths and aprons to manage the mess more easily.
Directions:
Lay down a protective covering on your table or floor to catch any stray splatters. If you’re doing this indoors, ensure paper towels or wet wipes are nearby for quick clean-ups.
- Start by printing the free CACTUS printable (linked above) onto a single sheet of green cardstock.
- Use a black marker to add “spikes” to the design for extra detail.
- Carefully cut out the cactus shape and set it aside for now.
- Take a large paper plate and fold it in half.
- Unfold the plate and add a few squiggles of fabric paint to one side. Be sure to keep the paint away from the edges—remember, less is more!
- Fold the plate back in half and gently press it together, rubbing your hand across the surface to spread the paint evenly inside.
- Open the plate to reveal a unique, symmetrical “desert scene” created by the paint splatter.
- If you’d like, sprinkle some loose craft glitter over the wet paint for a touch of sparkle.
- To complete your desert sunset craft, staple the cactus cutout onto the painted design.
- Allow your creation to dry completely before displaying it proudly for everyone to admire!
RELATED —> Cupcake Liner Cactus Card
This paint splat cactus scene is a simple yet creative way to make summer memories with your kids. Whether you’re looking for a rainy-day activity or something new to try at home, this craft checks all the boxes. Gather your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and start making some beautiful artwork today!
We’d love to see the final results! Share your cactus creations with us on Instagram using #GluedToMyCrafts and we might just feature them on our social media pages. Happy crafting, my friends!
Paint Splat Desert Scene Craft for Kids
Here’s your checklist of supplies to bring this craft to life:
- White Cardstock Paper
- SUMMER PRINTABLE - LANDING PAGE
- 1 Large Paper Plate
- Tulip Puffy Paint various colors
- Embellishments
Prepare your creative haven by laying down a protective cover before the crafting magic begins!
Directions:
- Start by printing the free CACTUS printable (linked above) onto a single sheet of green cardstock.
- Use a black marker to add "spikes" to the design for extra detail.
- Carefully cut out the cactus shape and set it aside for now.
- Take a large paper plate and fold it in half.
- Unfold the plate and add a few squiggles of fabric paint to one side. Be sure to keep the paint away from the edges—remember, less is more!
- Fold the plate back in half and gently press it together, rubbing your hand across the surface to spread the paint evenly inside.
- Open the plate to reveal a unique, symmetrical "desert scene" created by the paint splatter.
- If you'd like, sprinkle some loose craft glitter over the wet paint for a touch of sparkle.
- To complete your desert sunset craft, staple the cactus cutout onto the painted design.
- Allow your creation to dry completely before displaying it proudly for everyone to admire!

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