The following is a post from contributing writer Angie.

A simple, fun, and inexpensive art project to do is decorating plates with favorite quotations.  As a lover of words, this is definitely a favorite project of mine, especially since it can be done with minimal cost and experience.  This a wonderful project to do with large groups when you need an easy and inexpensive activity.

Materials Needed

Decorative Plates

Any plate that has a glaze of some sort is wonderful for this project.  My favorite place to find a wide variety of plates at a cheap price is Goodwill.  If you don’t have a Goodwill near you, try other thrift stores.  I especially like our Goodwill for this project, because not only are most of the plates around $0.99, but on certain days, you can get a second one at half price .

Markers

You can do this project with either paint pens or with Sharpie markers (or a similar permanent marker).  In the plate pictured, I used a paint pen.  However, my normal preference would be a Sharpie, as they can be purchased less expensively, which makes it easier to have a large variety of colors.  Also, Sharpies can offer a finer point.

Nail Polish Remover

When errors happen while you are writing, as they have habit to do, nail polish remover can remove the permanent marker from a glazed plate.  You’ll also need either paper towel or cotton balls.

The Project

For this project, people are of one of three minds on how to start.  You will either:

1. Pick your quote first.  Then, search out the plate that is perfect for it, whether because of the design or the room on the plate.

2. Pick your plate first.  Then, choose your quote based on the plate design or the space available on it.

3. Pick a plate you like, pick a quote you like, and just make it work.

Any of those ways are fine, so proceed as you feel so inclined.  Because plates can often be found inexpensively at a thrift store, I think it’s fun to pick up several plates so that you can go with all of these methods, each on different plates.

Once you’re ready to start, this is one of those projects where you just go for it.  The glaze on the plates prevents you from being able to pencil out your words ahead of time.  It’s the kind of project where you do your best, and if it doesn’t come out the way you like, you grab your nail polish remover and cotton (or paper towel) to “erase” and start again.

I actually think that’s one of the fun things about the quote plate project – it’s both flexible and fixable.  It’s also great to do with all ages, from preschoolers’ drawings to a fun craft night with your girlfriends.

An Important Note

On any plate that I have decorated like this, I write on the back:  Not dishwasher safe.  Lightly hand wash with mild soap only.  Not safe for use with food.

These plates are only good for decorative use.  They are best cleaned by dusting as you might do with other decorative plates.  Although they can usually handle a light, gentle washing, a more thorough washing could take off small amounts of the wording/designs.

What are some of your favorite quotes that you think would be perfect for a project like this?

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