Creating 3D Wall Art with Kids (Yes, Really!) — A Guide to Imaginative Family Projects - Olshbau

Creating 3D Wall Art with Kids (Yes, Really!) — A Guide to Imaginative Family Projects

Creating 3D Wall Art with Kids (Yes, Really!)

Let’s face it: keeping kids creatively engaged in a screen-free activity is no small feat. But what if we told you there’s a way to turn your living room into a mini Bauhaus studio for the afternoon — and end up with real, display-worthy art?

At Olshbau, we create 3D wall art inspired by the Bauhaus movement, Suprematism, and Constructivism. Our materials of choice — cardboard, paper, and acrylic paint — aren’t just artist-grade; they’re kid-friendly. In this post, we’ll show you how to adapt professional 3D techniques into joyful, safe, and wildly creative projects you can do with children ages 5 and up.

Why 3D Wall Art with Kids?

Creating 3D wall art isn’t just fun — it’s also an educational, tactile, and confidence-building experience for children. Working with paper and cardboard introduces basic architectural and design thinking, enhances spatial awareness, and supports fine motor skills.

It’s also a chance to introduce children to art history in a way that’s hands-on rather than just academic. Instead of saying, “This is Kazimir Malevich,” you get to say, “Let’s build like Kazimir Malevich!”

What You’ll Need

Most of the materials can be sourced from your recycling bin and local craft store. Here’s our tried-and-tested list:

  • Cardboard or thick paper (shipping boxes, cereal boxes, or colored cardstock)

  • Scissors and craft knives (kids use only under supervision)

  • Non-toxic glue (a glue stick or white PVA)

  • Acrylic paints (water-based and safe for kids)

  • Paint brushes and sponges

  • Ruler, pencil, eraser

  • Optional: string, beads, aluminum foil, googly eyes

 

 

3 Easy and Artistic Project Ideas

1.

Suprematist Shape Collage

Inspired by Kazimir Malevich’s iconic works, this project uses geometric abstraction to create layered cardboard collages. Have kids cut out circles, squares, and triangles, then layer them in a composition that “floats.” They can paint each shape in primary colors — just like the masters of the early 20th century.

Learning themes: geometry, balance, color theory

Display tip: Mount the finished piece on a black foam board or wooden panel for a gallery-style look.

2. 

Cardboard Creature Sculptures

Kids love to build creatures. Think of this as Bauhaus meets LEGO: take cardboard offcuts and create a bug, a cat, or an imaginary robot. Use slits and tabs to slot parts together (no glue needed), or glue elements for more permanence.


Inspiration: our “Smiling Charming Centipede” and “Three Screaming Monsters” sculptures were born from exactly this kind of playful experimentation.


Display tip: Stick a magnet or small hook on the back and mount it to the wall.

 

3.

Color Grid Wall Panel

Inspired by Josef Albers and Paul Klee, this activity explores color interaction. Divide a square cardboard sheet into 16 equal blocks. Let kids paint each square in a different shade, experimenting with warm/cool tones, tints, and color gradients.

Learning themes: color mixing, grids, repetition

Display tip: Use double-sided foam tape to float the panel off the wall by a centimeter — adding real 3D depth.

 

 

Tips for a Successful 3D Art Session

  • Let go of perfection. This is about process, not product.

  • Use templates. For younger kids, pre-cut a few shapes they can decorate and arrange.

  • Paint last. Build first, then paint — it avoids smudging and mess.

  • Limit the palette. Use 3–4 colors to keep things harmonious and reduce overwhelm.

  • Display proudly. Put the final artwork in a hallway, kitchen, or even your child’s room to show it’s valued.

 

The Educational Bonus

These aren’t just creative activities — they help develop important 21st-century skills:

  • Creative problem-solving: How can I balance this piece? Will it stand?

  • Design thinking: What happens if I change the color or angle?

  • Self-expression: Every child’s artwork tells their story.

As Bauhaus master László Moholy-Nagy once wrote:

“Everyone is talented. What is rare is the courage to follow the talent to the dark place where it leads.”

 

 

Final Thoughts: A New Kind of Family Gallery

The best part? You’re not just making crafts — you’re building a home gallery of meaningful, memory-rich art. Every piece your child creates can become part of the visual story of your family’s creativity.

And if you get hooked (like we did), who knows — maybe your next family wall sculpture will go from kitchen wall to art show.

Happy creating!

 


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