Scrimshaw

This lesson focuses on arts, history, plastic waste and storytelling. The hands on tactile experience is memorable and the "engravings" make great keepsakes of the materials learned. Click here to learn more.

Grade Level: K-12

Time: 30 - 90 minutes

Learning Standards:

What we are Learning?

Art techniques
Maritime history
Reinforcing plastic waste and protecting habitats.
History (how carvings were used to document voyages)
May be used for reading, writing and storytelling

Materials Needed

Plastic waste
- White works best but you can always paint your plastic a white or off white color. You may want to sand your surface first then use an acrylic paint. (see examples in the carousel.
- Sand paper
- Paint
Permanent Markers/fine tip

How is it done?

Prepare your plastic waste item.
- - - Remove any labels, wash off any glue or dirt
    - Sand if needed
    - Paint a base color if needed.
  - Get creative!
    - What story do you want to tell?
  - Draw your design onto your plastic waste item
    - You can always sketch our your design with pencil before using a permanent marker.