Paint a map of the world

In this fun lesson Joe creates a large map of the world with Acrylic paint. The paint is flicked and drizzled over templates that can be downloaded from the downloads tab next to the lesson clip. This is a great project to do with the family or as a class room activity. So grab your supplies and let's get into it!

Step 1. Cutting out the regions.

Take the 5 regional images of this PDF and profile cut each main part of the land masses out with scissors. Leave any little islands on the sheet. This way you won’t lose track of them. I have printed the PDF out in A3 to use with the 120 x 60 cm canvas, but this project will work if you print it out in A4 as well. If you print it to this size, use a 35 x 71 cm canvas.

Step 2. Applying the regions.

In this step we have to adhere each region on to the canvas. Use Blu Tac rolled into little balls for this. Refer to the first image of the overall map for reference. Once all the main land masses are applied, cut out the islands and apply them the same way. Do one region at a time

Step 3. Adding the paint.

Choose the colours you wish to use from the 12 piece Acrylic Paint Set and fill each cup with the entire contents of a tube. Then add 3 teaspoons of water to each cup/colour. Thoroughly mix the contents with a wooden popsicle stick or a palette knife. Each tube from the set contains 12 ml of paint. If you intend to use colour from a full size tube just make sure you use an equivalent amount. Once mixed, the paint should be the viscosity of milk. Lay the canvas on the floor. Ensure that any surface that may come in to contact with paint is protected. I recommend a drop sheet, or scrap paper for this. Once you are happy that the area is sufficiently protected against paint splatters, you can apply the paint. This can be done a number of ways: By dripping the paint directly from the cup, by dipping the stirrer in the paint and letting it drizzle off the stirrer, or by flicking the paint off the stirrer. Try to limit the amount of paint that seeps under the templates. Work around each region and try to use equal amounts of colour all over. Once you have all the colour applied let this dry thoroughly. In the video I use a palette knife to apply my paint, this is optional as a popsicle stick can be used to the same effect. This may be a better option for kids.

Step 4. Detailing.

Peel of the templates. Next squeeze out some Titanium White in the Dimension Series into a deep well plastic palette and redefine the edge of the map in any areas where the paint seeped under the template. You can add any little islands or detail any coastlines as well.