Ingredients
- 1 small stainless steel balloon whisk, 8 to 10 inches long
- 2 unfinished wooden craft sticks, each 4.5 inches long and 3/4 inch wide
- 1 small bottle of water-based acrylic craft paint, 2 fluid ounces (any color you like)
- 1 small bottle of white water-based acrylic craft paint, 2 fluid ounces (for highlights, optional)
- 1 small bottle of water-based outdoor clear sealer, 2 fluid ounces
- 1 tube of strong multipurpose craft glue, 1 fluid ounce
- 1 sheet of 120 grit sandpaper
- 1 sheet of 220 grit sandpaper
- 1 small paintbrush, about 1/4 inch wide
- 1 small detail paintbrush, about 1/8 inch wide
- 1 pair of scissors
- 1 pencil
- 1 ruler, at least 6 inches long
- 1 small cup with 2 fluid ounces of water for rinsing brushes
- 1 clean rag, about 12 inches square
- 1 disposable table covering or drop cloth, at least 24 inches by 36 inches
- 1 pair of nitrile or household gloves, optional for glue and sealer
- 1 small piece of cardboard, about 12 inches by 12 inches, for painting and drying
Instructions
- Cover your table before you set out the materials.
- Put on your gloves if you want them, lay the drop cloth flat, and place the cardboard in the center. Set the whisk, wood, paint, glue, and tools within easy reach.
- Measure and mark a 4 inch length on each wooden craft stick. These two pieces will become the upper and lower wing pairs.
- Use the 120 grit sandpaper to smooth the cut ends and any rough edges on the wood.
- Follow with 220 grit sandpaper for a smoother surface.
- Wipe both wood pieces with the clean rag to remove sanding dust.
- Paint one thin coat on the top, sides, and ends of each wood piece.
- Let the first coat dry for 1 to 2 hours.
- Rinse the brush in the cup, squeeze it gently against the rim, and let the painted pieces rest on the cardboard.
- Apply the second thin coat and add a few small lines or dots with the white paint if desired.
- While the paint dries, separate the whisk wires. Hold the handle in one hand and gently pull four wire loops outward.
- Turn the whisk and check the shape from above. The handle should remain the central body with the four wings spreading around the top.
- When the painted wood feels dry, lay the two pieces across the whisk wires to test the wing placement. Mark the contact points lightly with a pencil.
- Apply a small dot of craft glue at each marked contact point and press the wooden wings onto the wire.
- Leave the dragonfly flat on the cardboard for at least 24 hours.
- Brush on one thin coat of water-based outdoor clear sealer over the painted wood and any painted details.
- Let it dry for 2 hours, then inspect the surface for any need of a second coat.
- Clean the brush with water while the sealer remains wet, wipe the table, and let the finished piece sit overnight before placing it in a planter.
Notes
Safety Notes: Wear gloves if the whisk has sharp cut ends or if your skin reacts to glue and sealer. Keep the project away from young children while shaping the wire, and supervise around scissors.
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
