School-aged kids enjoy finding prompts and drawing on dictionary pages with this easy project. Dictionary Page Art is a perfect activity for the home or classroom.
Drawing on Dictionary Pages
This project is a great way to engage a child’s creativity. Dictionary pages offer an easy prompt for kids to use since art ideas are listed directly on the page. Kids simply have to look for a word to draw, and then create it!
Also, by using repurposed pages, kids no longer have an intimidating blank page staring back at them. This can help lessen nerves associated with making initial sketches.
Related: For more drawing prompt ideas, play this fun Creative Drawing Game.
Supplies Needed to Make this Dictionary Art Project
- Dictionary Pages
- Drawing Medium of choice – we used pencils, charcoal, and a fine tip permanent marker
- Coloring Medium of choice – we used colored pencils
Directions to Make Dictionary Page Art
Step 1
Carefully tear or cut pages from a dictionary.
Step 2
Locate a word on the page to draw and use a pencil to lightly sketch a design on the entire page.
Step 3
Optional: Trace sketch with a fine tip permanent marker to finalize design. Erase any unwanted pencil lines.
Step 4
Lastly, color and add finishing touches.
Finished Dictionary Page Art Project
I love how our dictionary pages turned out! Since these projects are made on paper, they are easily framed, clipped, or displayed in your preferred style.
Our Experience Making this Dictionary Page Art Project
We headed to our local library’s used book sale room and found an old dictionary to repurpose for this project. My son and I approached this project differently. He began with a specific word in mind that he looked for in the dictionary. I randomly opened the dictionary and searched that page for a prompt to draw. He also chose to use charcoal, while I chose to use colored pencils and pens. I love that this project is easily customized for any artist or supply. Plus, now we have an entire dictionary simply for craft purposes!
Prep Time
5 minutes
Active Time
15 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Cost
$1
Tools
- Drawing Medium of choice – we used pencils, charcoal, and a fine tip permanent marker
- Coloring Medium of choice – we used colored pencils
Instructions
- Carefully tear or cut pages from a dictionary.
- Locate a word on the page to draw and use a pencil to lightly sketch a design on the entire page.
- Optional: Trace sketch with a fine tip permanent marker to finalize design. Erase any unwanted pencil lines.
- Color and add finishing touches.
Notes
Dictionary Page Art Variations
- Use other discarded or damaged books.
Make gifts by framing completed drawings of recipient’s favorite animals, hobbies, etc. - Create seasonal or themed drawings.
- Keep pages in the dictionary and create an entire book full of drawings!
Dictionary Page Art Variations
- Use other discarded or damaged books.
- Make gifts by framing completed drawings of recipient’s favorite animals, hobbies, etc.
- Create seasonal or themed drawings.
- Keep pages in the dictionary and create an entire book full of drawings!
Other Fun Art Projects from Kids Activities Blog
Did your kids enjoy drawing on dictionary pages? What word did they choose as a drawing prompt?
