DIY Pick Day 2: Making Diyas for a Cause

Get together with your children and turn ordinary diyas into something special. Been there, done that? We weren't done yet! Give your child an opportunity to gift these diyas to your house help or better still, pack the lovely diyas and head straight to an old age home or an orphanage, and spread the cheer together with your child.

Not only do you have fun getting all colored up with your child, but also make a lovely memory for others. Let's get started!

Diya Painting For Diwali

Plain diyas are easily available in the market. There are no limits on what you can do to decorate them. So let the creativity flow! Here are some steps that you can follow when decorating diyas with your child-

What You Need To Paint Diyas For Diwali

You need clay diyas (as many as you like – the more, the merrier!), varnish, acrylic or fabric paint, brushes, water

1. Step 1: Wipe the diyas clean with a soft cloth dipped in water. Dry them with your hairdryer or put them out in sun for a while – you can't paint on wet diyas
2. Step 2: Now paint the diyas using your favoritecolors. The bolder, the brighter – opt for shades of red, blue, green, yellow and for that special touch – a brush of gold. Get creative with the patterns and encourage your child to do the same. Lead by example, as they say!
3. Step 3: Spread a newspaper and dry the diyas in the sun. Once dry, it's a good idea to apply some varnish to make sure the paint doesn't come off easy when the diya is filled with oil. You will get varnish at any hardware store/paint shop near your home
4. Step 4: Feeling more creative? Embellish your diyas with glitter and beads

Quick Tip: Apply a light colored paint as the first coat and then paint the patterns in bold colors.

Things To Keep In Mind When Decorating Diyas

Take care of these few things while painting diyas with your child:

1. Make sure you clean the diyas: the dust will not allow the paint to set
2. Paints can be toxic: don't leave your child (especially if under 5 years) alone during the activity
3. Let them dry completely: Do not light the diyas until they are completely dry

Quick Tip: Apply a light colored paint as the first coat and then paint the patterns in bold colors.

Once the diyas are ready, have your child make some simple, yet pretty paper gift covers to wrap them in. Your Diwali diyas are ready to spread the light!

Have any diya decoration tips that you'd like to share with us? Let us know in the comments section!