Transform a chilly day into a creative adventure! Using simple materials like a plastic container, natural finds, and a bit of water, you can craft stunning ice art to decorate your outdoor space. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this project combines a nature walk with hands-on fun, resulting in unique, fleeting works of art that celebrate the season. Follow the steps below to make your own icy masterpiece! 

Materials: 

• Plastic Container

• Nature Materials 

• Twine or string (optional) 

• Scissors (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1:  Choose a cold day when the temperature is below freezing. 

Step 2: Bundle up and take a nature walk, and collect anything that looks interesting: twigs, leaves, stones, pinecones, moss, and dried grass are just a few examples of materials you might find. Be gentle, gathering only from the ground or plants you have permission to use. Dried flowers from summer bouquets make colorful additions. 

Step 3: Once you’ve gathered a collection, find a flat area outdoors, perhaps in your yard or on a porch, to set the container.

Step 4: Pour a thin layer of water into your plastic container. Then, arrange your found nature objects into a design of your choice! You could recreate a nature scene, spell out words, or make something abstract. Add more water if needed. The water should just cover all of your design. 

Step 5: If you want to hang your ice art, add a piece of twine or string to your piece, draping both ends into the water and leaving the middle section dry. 

Step 6: Wait for them to freeze! Leaving them out overnight is usually a good bet. Once frozen, you can take them from their molds and hang them outside for a piece of beautiful, ephemeral winter art.