Make clear sculptures using nearly anything as the base. The tape completely covers the base and then is cut off so that a hollow shell remains. Use clear sticky packing tape to wrap the first layer with the sticky side out, and then flip the tape so the sticky side is in for the next two or three layers. Clear plastic wrap can be used in addition to the tape to make a thicker structure. Slit the tape with a utility knife, remove and then tape the opening closed. Before closing, the sculpture can be filled with confetti, small colorful balls or any other object.
Use strips of brown packing tape to build a layered design. Laying the tape on a piece of clear plexiglass and then placing on a light box creates different shades depending on how many layers is in a particular spot. Much like computer generated pixels, the shades make up the image. Mark Khaisman first developed this style of artwork, designing scenes from old movies. Younger students can use blue painters tape on construction paper to "draw" their faces. Start with the oval head shape, tearing small pieces at a time, add a neck, hair and face. Instruct children to make their portrait so that the head, neck and hair touches the top, bottom and sides of the piece of paper to ensure they will have enough room to fill in the face.
Duct tape has been used in everything from simple flowers to elaborate prom fashions. Start by making duct tape flowers with contrasting colors of duct tape. Wrap a pipe cleaner with green tape, leaving a third uncovered. Fold a nine-inch piece of duct tape in half with the sticky sides. Fold the tape in half again. Cut a teardrop shape without cutting completely through the fold. Repeat this step two more times using different colors if desired. Stack the open petals and then use the uncovered end of the pipe cleaner to wrap and hold in place. Make leaves from a piece of green duct tape folded and cut into shape like the petals.
Use masking tape and newspaper to make bird sculptures. Crumple a sheet of newspaper into a ball. Wrap with masking tape to form the bird's body. Add more paper and masking tape until it is the shape desired. Press heavy pieces of wire, like a piece of a wire clothes hanger, in the bottom of the bird for the legs. Use heavy cardboard or a piece of wood for the base. Cover with glue and strips of paper. Allow to dry and then paint. Embellish with colorful craft feathers if desired.
Young children can use sticky tape to write their initials. Help them form letters on a big sheet of coated paper or poster board. Working on an easel for this project allows children more room to move. Have the students draw a large letter on their page and then cover it with strips of blue painters tape. Once the letter is formed, let the kids scribble all over the page with crayons or markers. Encourage scribbling with big arm movements and multiple colors. Once the page is covered, carefully remove the tape. The end result is a white letter in a colorful background.