Go canvassing

Look out for blank art canvasses at your local pound shop - they're ideal for cheap and easy art projects that give a great finished results. For example:

• Criss-cross masking tape randomly across the canvas from edge to edge, pressing it down firmly. Get the children to dab paint on with a sponge, then flick and spatter more paint on top, and maybe add some glitter too if they fancy. (As this is a messy activity, you may prefer to do it in the garden.) When the paint dries, peel off the masking tape to reveal a striking abstract canvas. 
• Alternatively, use the masking tape to mark out the child's initial & create a personalised artwork for their bedroom wall.
• Make hand- and footprints to turn the canvas into a keepsake gift.
• Paint the canvas completely, then mark out a simple shape (eg a heart, star or car), cover it with glue and fill it with little buttons.
• Drizzle PVA glue over the canvas & allow to dry before painting, to create a textured picture.
• Older children can create some great effects by using a hairdryer to melt old wax crayons on to a canvas – Google 'melted crayon canvas' for inspiration. (Before you start, explain the dangers of hot wax and electricity, and supervise this activity carefully.)