This post was originally published in April 2020 and updated as of May 2024.

Bean mosaic art is such a fun kids craft that got my maker wheels turning in such an unexpected way, and the supplies are as simple as you can get!

Easy Kids Crafts: Bean Mosaic Art

Today I’m going to show you a fun craft I did with my kids that got my maker wheels turning in such an unexpected way, and the supplies are as simple as you can get — we made bean mosaic art!

Making art with beans is surprisingly cool. You can make any design (like these animals from Handmade Charlotte), and the beans give it an awesome texture that makes your ideas pop!

What are the best beans for bean art?

Using a variety of sizes of dried beans is the key to making this project come to life. We used black eyes peas, kidney beans, and corn kernels.

What kind of glue do you use for bean art?

Because we made our mosaics with kids, we used regular school glue. If you are doing this project on your own or with older kids, you could try hot glue or something stronger.

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Supplies needed to make your own Bean Mosaic Art

How to do bean art

1. Plan your design

Using a pen or pencil, draw out your design on your paper plate. We found that simple shapes worked best.

2. Fill sections

Trace a section of your design and fill it in using glue. Tip: We found it was easiest to work in sections so that you would have fewer mess-ups when painting.

3. Add beans

Apply beans to the section you glued. Let dry completely. While it is drying, feel free to start on another design on another plate.

4. Paint beans

Once the section is dry, paint the beans in the desired colors. Apply two coats, if needed.

5. Repeat

Repeat steps 2-4 on the design, gluing and paint beans until you have completed your artwork!

Guys. We are bean artists. I had no idea this would be my life’s calling, but I am ready to devote all I have to it. (LOL) You and your kids are going to love how therapeutic and relaxing this little project is and the possibilities of what you can make are endless!

Easy Kids Crafts: Bean Mosaic Art

Bean mosaic art is such a fun kids craft that got my maker wheels turning in such an unexpected way, and the supplies are as simple as you can get!

Materials

Dried beans
Elmer’s Glue
Multi-surface acrylic paint
Paint brushes
Paper plates
Pen/pencil

Instructions

Using a pen or pencil, draw out your design on your paper plate. We found that simple shapes worked best.
Trace a section of your design and fill it in using glue.
Apply beans to the section you glued. Let dry completely. While it is drying, feel free to start on another design on another plate.
Once the section is dry, paint the beans in the desired colors. Apply two coats, if needed.
Repeat steps 2-4 on the design, gluing and paint beans until you have completed your artwork!