DIY Children's Finger Paint Mother's Day Gift Tote

Every year, I try to make something special for my mother and mother-in-law for Mother’s Day with my children’s help. Last year, we made keychains, and this year we made flower bouquets out of egg cartons. With Mother’s Day around the corner, I wanted to show you another simple, yet practical homemade Mother's Day gift that my children helped make for their grandmothers. The beauty in giving a durable tote as a gift is you can fill it with your favorite items and use it as the gift bag, or you can present it as the gift itself (like we did). Totes are also perfect for all of the hopeful Summertime adventures: shopping trips, gathering vegetables and flowers from Summer gardens, and toting essentials around during Summer vacations. I was inspired by the beautiful Texas Spring flowers (Bluebonnets, Indian Paintbrushes, and Dandelions), but you can create any flower that you think your gift receiver will enjoy.

Like most of my simple, DIY projects the beauty in this homemade gift is in the simplicity and imperfections especially when your children are involved in the process. They will love gifting this to the special person in their life. So I hope you enjoy the process.

Please see the steps below to create your own finger paint tote bag with your children’s help.

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Canvas Tote

Fabric Craft Paint. Ensure it is non-toxic and washable (from hands, not fabric).

Paintbrush

Kraft Paper to protect the work surface. I purchased this version over three years ago, and I have used it for many craft projects. You can also use any recycled paper to protect the work surface.

Cleaning Rag since this is a messy process.

Shop the Children’s Finger Paint Mother’s Day Gift Tote Supplies

Step 1: Determine the types of flowers and colors you will use. Just like in decorating, I like to follow the rules of three when I am stumped on a design decision. Therefore, I suggest choosing three colors and three flowers to inspire you. As mentioned above I was inspired by the beautiful and vibrant Texas wildflowers: Bluebonnets, Indian Paintbrushes, and Dandelions.

Once you determine the types of flowers and colors you will use, then decide on flower placement. (Since ultimately this is a children's project I kept it very simple.) Use your paintbrush to create simple stems as guidelines for your children to create.

Step 2: Dependent on the age of your children, choose your level of supervision. My children were two and four at the time, so I had a high level of supervision. However, if your children are willing to they may decide to do this next step on their own.

Use the stems as a guideline and then have your child use his or her index finger to apply dots of paint in patterns around the stem until you reach a look you are happy with.

*Ensure to keep your moist towel nearby as this process can be very messy.

Step 3: This step is optional, but at the bottom of the tote bag you can have your child sign the bag with a sharpie and date it.

I love how simple and beautiful this homemade gift turned out. My children are beaming with excitement for when they can finally present their homemade gift to their grandmothers.

I hope you enjoy decorating your own DIY tote bag. I also hope you have a wonderful Mother's Day weekend!

I believe crafting is more fun when we share our projects. Please email me at elizabeth@countrypeony.com, or please tag me @thecountrypeony or #countrypeony to show me your beautiful, custom creations!

Thank you so much for following along!