Making raised salt paintings at MPL's Headlands Branch

At Mentor Library's Headlands Branch, we thought we'd use salt to make a fun craft and teach a little bit about local history on Friday. After all, a lot of kids (and even some adults) don't realize that we live right by a rock salt mine in Fairport Harbor.

So we told the kids about how salt is made and then helped them make raised salt paintings.

Raised salt paintings are easy (if occasionally messy) to make, so we'll include some instructions in case you want to try it with your kids at home.

Kids use craft glue to make patterns on their paper.

All you need is some construction paper, craft glue, salt and watercolor paints.

You start by using your glue to make patterns on your construction paper. It can be anything—hearts, smiley faces, your name. Simple shapes and patterns look great on the paper, so it doesn't have to be complicated.

Then you sprinkle salt on top of the glue.

It might be less messy if you pour the salt yourself, or if you do the craft outside.

You don't have to wait for the glue to dry before you start painting.

The salt absorbs the water in the paint, so it dries quickly. It also spreads the color and gives the artwork texture.

And it looks beautiful.

Give it a try and let us know how it looks!

For more photos from our Raised Salt Painting program, visit Mentor Library's Facebook page. For more programs and events for kids, visit the Mentor Library's event calendar on its website.