Let’s make these simple watercolor hearts for a DIY Valentine

Let’s make these simple watercolor hearts for a DIY Valentine card, again! This is an updated post from 2018.

I’ve talked about these little watercolor hearts for a Mother’s Day post. You can see that here. I love them and I’m calling this batch Laguna Sunset. The pinks and orange make me think of Laguna Beach. Around this time of year when it’s still so cold, I start missing California terribly. Of course, I always miss it a little. California is one of those places that’s hard to get out of your mind and heart.

A great project for kids and adults

Both adults and kids can make watercolor hearts! There are so many ways this could be done and kids of all ages could easily make them. There’s really no wrong way to paint. I like stripes, but any pattern could work.

It’s the perfect project to do with creative children and nothing has to be perfect. In fact, what I love most about it is the imperfections in the watercolor stripes. Also, most watercolors don’t stain so you really don’t have to worry about them spilling or making a mess. And clean-up is quick and easy.

I prefer the watercolors, but if you don’t have any on hand, you could try this project using crayons. 

Here is a list of supplies you’ll need for making watercolor hearts

• Thick watercolor paper, heavier weight or thick white paper, or card stock
• Inexpensive watercolor paints
• A few paint brushes (or one small paintbrush)
• a heart craft punch (one size or several for making hearts of different sizes)

A few other tools/supplies to have on hand when making these simple watercolor hearts

• Small cups or jars with water
• Paper towels
• Scissors
• Envelopes
• fine tip marker to write on back of hearts

DIY instructions for making watercolor hearts

1. Start by painting random stripes of red, pink & orange on watercolor paper (I use watercolor paper so that it’s tick and also has a nice texture like a canvas). If you’re doing this project with children, try painting on a scrap piece of paper so they
2. Let the paint dry so that it doesn’t smear. Then take your craft punch and turn it over so that you can “frame” each mini abstract painting. No two hearts will be alike. It’s fun to see how the white space, the color, and the brushstrokes all come into play when you move your heart template around the paper to punch out your hearts. 

Here’s a 90-second video showing how we made simple watercolor hearts

Little Heart Shaped Abstract Masterpieces

Write little notes on the back and include them with a card, or drop them into an envelope.

On the inside of the envelope I wrote, “I love you more than…” and then on the back of each heart, I wrote a short, but sweet note or a small drawing (a cup of coffee, a wave, a simple xoxo…). It can be personalized for the recipient. That’s what makes it fun.

Sprinkle them around the house

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Stay safe & cozy!

xo

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