Creating Kaleidoscope Designs

Gr 6 Up—Artist/teacher Peggy Flores takes viewers into the fascinating, reflective, mirrored world of kaleidoscope design using simple tools and materials. She demonstrates two different techniques. In the first, a circle is drawn on white paper using a compass. It is then divided in four, eight, or sixteen equal parts by drawing a spoke template, placing it under the circle, and lining up the center dot over a light box or window. On a separate piece of paper, a template of one of the sections is traced to create a simple design, and then is used to trace the design onto the circle sections, alternating the pattern to create a mirror image of the design before. The designs are then colored with marker or paint and outlined with a black permanent marker to make it pop. In the second technique, a square piece of paper is divided into triangular sections to achieve a beautiful kaleidoscope design. This is a great art activity to teach reflection/mirror design and can be simplified for younger students.—Jeana Actkinson, Educational Service Center Region XI, Ft. Worth, TX