Creative Sub Plans: Cut Paper Art Idea

I found this post in my draft folder. I had written the post and then it was right before Covid hit, so somehow I missed posting it! This is one of my go-to sub plans. Use up the paper in your scrap bin and make a picture just using cut paper shapes. All you need to do to prepare is leave the scrap box available and provide a few examples. You can print these out or make your own! I love how creative the kids can be with simple instructions and inspiration.

Paper collage of majestic mountains with snow caps, a flowing river, and a brown house with a red door nestled among green trees.
A child with a kite near a swingset on a sunny day, created with vibrant cut-out paper shapes and some glitter.
A bear wielding a sword and gun battles two flying snakes in the sky under a brilliant sun.
A green T-Rex in an astronaut suit floating in space, with stars and a comet streaking by in the background.
A penguin standing on ice near the ocean under a purple sky with two geometric, moon-like shapes. The majestic colors and serene landscape make it feel almost otherworldly.
Paper collage of a campsite featuring a blue tent and a campfire, set against green hills and a sky with white clouds.
A vibrant paper collage of a beach featuring a palm tree, a red beach chair, an orange sun setting over the ocean, and seashells scattered along the shore.
Child's drawing with a red house, a chicken, a cat, and framed pictures of other animals on a whimsical light green background.

If you need more ideas, check out my blog post with 30 Elementary Art Sub Lesson!

A collection of colored pencils, notebook, confetti, and two illustrated art worksheets with the text "30 Low-Prep Art Sub Plans!" at the top left—perfect for emergency art substitute days or no-prep art lessons in elementary classrooms.

Discover more from Art is Basic | Elementary Art Projects

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  1. I really appreciate receiving these ideas in my inbox. I am not naturally artistic.
    Shawn G
    Lafayette, IN