Backyard Art FTW: DIY Water Balloon Watercolor Art

It is getting HOT in herrrrre. And for those of us that aren't swimming in a nice big pool right now, we have three options: Hide out in the safety of air conditioning, bake to a crisp outside, OR get creative with water games!

You've likely seen paint-filled water balloons splattering on canvases to create art (and walls, and floors, and clothing, and really everything the light touches). So, to remedy this incredibly fun yet disastrous activity, we flipped this art project to include regular old water-filled balloons, and watercolor paints (glorious, washable watercolors) secured onto the canvas itself!

Materials and Tools:

  • large white stretched canvas
  • watercolor palette (with round, dry cakes of paint)
  • water balloons
  • hot glue gun
  • hot glue sticks
  • butter knife

Instructions:

  1. Pop out the watercolor discs using the tip of a butter knife.
  2. Hot glue them onto your canvas.
  3. Fill up water balloons and go!

Grab a large canvas, water balloons, and a few art supplies, and let's get this arty party going! Carefully remove the watercolor discs from the palette, using the tip of the butter knife. You'll want to be really gentle, or else they'll crack when trying to remove them. Once you have them out of the plastic casing, hot glue them to the canvas in a random order. Or if you have a creative vision in mind, have at it!

Fill up a bowl of water balloons.

And let 'er rip!! Watch the magic AND art come alive before your eyes.

So fun!

BONUS: Not only will you create a fun watercolor masterpiece, but you can use your leftover water balloons as ammunition against your fellow artists!

This tutorial is being featured as part of a partnership with Scotts. Head to www.scotts.com for more fun ideas for getting creative outside with your kiddos.

This project originally appeared as part of this article.

Already yearning for springtime? Us, too. As we dream of warmer temperatures, we’re plotting all the outdoor shindigs possible. From patio potluck parties to backyard picnics, your outdoor plans are simply incomplete without some very reliable (and very stylish) outdoor furniture!

That’s where Fortunoff Backyard Store comes in – from dining and lounging to gettin’ real cozy by the fire pit, they’ve got tons of options to suit up any outdoor space. We scrolled through their site and found 12 fabulous pieces that will certainly help you step up your backyard decor game!

Scroll on to shop the best outdoor furniture finds from Fortunoff Backyard Store!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Castello Teak 3-Piece Sofa + Coffee Table

This stunning cushioned set comes complete with one long sofa, an individual seat, and a coffee table so everyone can gather 'round. You can also shop it in three other colors so you get the perfect fit for your space.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Ventura 7-Piece Combo Dining Set

Everyone will have a seat at the table with this luxe dining set. It seats 6 total and ensures the utmost comfort with breezy PVC slings to sit on and weather-tested materials to last you years and years.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Stainless Steel Gas Patio Heater

Chilly nights are no match for this patio heater. Heating up to 250 square feet with gas power, having this tower on your patio or in your backyard means you don't ever have to sacrifice comfort to get outside. Our fave feature is the built-in wheels that make rearranging easy!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Farmhouse 3-Piece Sofa + Coffee Table

This farmhouse-style soft + coffee table set is just oozing comfort and class. Made of durable recycled high-density polyethylene, this set gives the look of painted wood without all the maintenance of painting or staining. All the while, this set resists any food and beverage stains it may come across.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

South Beach Chaise Lounge

Who doesn't love a good chaise? This adjustable and stackable lounge chair is fitted with a breathable material suitable for all seasons. It'll be your BFF for springtime outdoor reading sessions, summer afternoons spent tanning, and scorching-hot pool days.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Terrafab Faux Stone Gas Fire Pit

For cooler temps, fire up your very own fire pit! This piece takes the hard work out of starting a fire so you can expedite your way to total comfort. It comes ready with a durable PVC cover and lava rocks for a fun, real feel.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Chateau 3-Piece Bistro Set + Table

This adorable set just whisked us away to the whimsical terraces of Paris! If you're looking to make a magical escape out of your outdoor space, this trio will be perfect. The cast aluminum is lightweight, making any rearranging you want to do super simple. The circular bistro table is even fitted with an umbrella hole that's compatible with any of Fortunoff Backyard Store's umbrella models.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Sonoma Husk 7-Piece Outdoor Dining Set + Table

This 7-piece set is ideal if you wish to seat larger groups for outdoor brunches, lunches, dinners, and more! Each piece is expertly constructed to withstand weathering and UV rays so it looks just as great as they day you bought it. We love that the chairs are also easily stackable for off-season storage!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Tivoli 5-Piece Swivel Bar Set

If a high-top is where your heart lies, you've gotta check out this 5-piece set. It's one of Fortunoff Backyard Store's sturdiest, thanks to the heavyweight sand cast aluminum frame. Decorative by nature, you'll adore just looking at this set just as much as you adore sitting in it!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Espresso Wicker Gas Patio Heater

Delivering even heat with a cylindrical design, this patio heater does it all in style with a sleek wicker tank cover and pyrex glass chamber for visual effect.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Tulum 3-Piece Sofa

Prepped and ready with a one-seater, two-seater, and three-seater, everyone at your family gathering or friend-filled party will be able to enjoy the plush cushions on this sofa set! You can snag it in this calming blue hue or opt for a more neutral tan color.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

San Lucas 3-Piece Cuddle Beds Contour Sectional

As a cozy hybrid between a chair and a bed, this sectional is perfect for daytime naps or lounging out by the pool on a summer afternoon. The cushions are resistant to UV rays, fading, mold, mildew, and stains, so they'll always look super stunning.

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Target’s dress selection is already full of stylish gems, but a 25% off sale makes ‘em even better. Right now, Target’s running a deal where you can take 25% off dresses, denim, and shorts with Target Circle! Whether you’re looking for a breezy sundress for spring or a chic pick to wear to work, now’s the perfect time to grab a Target dress (or a few). With deals this good, these Target finds won’t stay in stock for long.

Scroll on for our 15 favorite Target dresses on sale right now!

Target

A New Day Tank Mini Shift Dress

This serene green dress is cut from a breezy cotton-blend canvas fabric that'll keep you feelin' and lookin' cool all season long.

Target

Universal Thread Midi A-Line Dress

Don't be afraid to embrace all things colorful this spring – this bright blue midi is just adorable! The smocked bodice enhances its flattering fit, plus, it comes with pockets on the side.

Target

Universal Thread Flutter Short Sleeve Mini Skater Dress

This fluttery mini is oh-so feminine and even boasts a lovely floral pattern to match all of your outdoor outings! It's fairly casual, so you could easily pair it with heels and sneakers alike.

Target

Wild Fable Drop Waist Mini Sundress

Butter yellow is one of the most perfect colors for springtime, and this $23 (was $30) Target dress makes rocking the shade easier than ever. The drop waist silhouette makes it even trendier!

Target

Wild Fable Lace Ruffle Maxi Bodycon Dress

Hello, ruffles! This dreamy maxi dress would make a prime pick for springtime date nights or happy hours.

Target

Universal Thread Bell Elbow Sleeve Mini A-Line Dress

This comfy dress is still undeniably flattering, even though it has a loose fit. The v-neckline and elbow-length sleeves are super elegant and add flair to each and every look you want to pull this spring! We'd style this number with some Mary Janes or ballet flats to complete the 'fit.

Target

Wild Fable Maxi Bodycon Dress

We can't resist a denim dress! This $27 (was $36) body-hugging moment would look so cute with platform sandals or even cowgirl boots, like pictured above. The structured design throughout helps shape your figure for such a flattering effect.

Target

Universal Thread Smocked Knit Maxi A-Line Dress

This easy-wearing knit dress features a soft and stretchy jersey fabric that'll feel like heaven once you put it on. The smocked bodice design helps break up your look and hugs your waist in all the right places.

Target

Wild Fable Mini Skater Dress

The backless halter moment on this mini lets you show some skin this spring – all while still feeling secure and looking flattering as can be. The mid-weight cotton material it's made of is blended with spandex to ensure wearing it all day long is comfortable.

Target

Universal Thread Western Shirtdress

With plenty of Western details within the buttons and front pockets, this stunning shirtdress will amp up your country-esque outfits with ease.

Target

A New Day Knit Mini Ballet Dress

Drawing inspiration from effortless ballerina fashion, this $11 (was $15) mini dress boasts a flattering squared neckline, all in a soft and stretchy jersey fabric that makes dressing up so delightful.

Target

A New Day Corset Midi A-Line Dress

Gingham is spring's BFF! Flaunt the trendy pattern this season with this adorable midi dress. The vertical seaming gives it a corset effect that's not restricting one bit – just shaping!

Target

Wild Fable Ruffle Sleeve Eyelet Mini A-Line Dress

This yellow mini with a sweetheart neckline with lace and adorable eyelet and bow accents is beautifully femme, gently accentuating your collarbone and waistline for a fit you'll instantly fall in love with.

Target

Universal Thread Corset Midi A-Line Dress

We adore the floral pattern on this blue baby. The dainty spaghetti straps feel so fit for spring, too!

Target

Wild Fable Drop Waist Mini Tennis Dress

Drop waist dresses are everything because they can help elongate your silhouette and flatter your waistline. This all-white number is cut from a lightweight fabric mixed with spandex, so it comes ready with a lil' bit of stretch for added comfort!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Whether you’re the cool aunt or uncle who has no idea what The Youths like to get as gifts these days, or a parent who knows exactly what your kids want (the endless hints are not so much hints anymore!), tracking down gifts for kids can still be a big challenge. Let our guide to the best gifts for kids inspire your shopping sprees for whoever you’re gifting this year – we’ve got something for all ages.

Amazon

Littlest Pet Shop Playset

Turns out the Littlest Pet Shop is still a total must-have! This playset comes with two adorable pets and over 20 accessories that your kiddo can move around to customize their own little world.

Target

Target Toy Checklane

This interactive Target checkout counter will be very familiar to your little one if they're part of a Target family! It has options to browse store shelves, ring up play items, and pay with pretend money for the whole experience.

Amazon

Wild Republic Amazon Exclusive 2024 Holiday Bear

How cute is this sweater-bearing bear? We honestly want one for ourselves. This darling plushie makes the perfect bedtime snuggle buddy for the holiday season!

Target

Syncfun Play Kitchen Toys

If the kid you're shopping for isn't quite ready to cook and bake, they'll certainly learn the ways of the kitchen with this playset. It includes a coffee maker, toaster, and a blender, along with 2 knives, 2 spoons, 2 forks, 4 foods, 2 cups, 2 teacups, 2 plates, 2 saucers, and 2 "toasts" so their imagination can run wild.

Amazon

Ninja Blast Brain & Memory Game Cube

For kiddos in the 6 to 12 year-old range, this light-up, noise-making game cube comes equipped with tons of one- and two-player games to keep them occupied, sans TV or phone screen.

Amazon

Harper The Pig Weighted Comfort Plush

This cuddly stuffed animal helps "lower stress and boost calm" with a weight of 4.5 pounds to help anyone feel grounded and relaxed, even adults! Its soft fabric and cute, welcoming face will certainly satisfy any anxiousness. You can choose from Harper The Pig, Frankie The Cat, Charlie The Puppy, and more characters!

Amazon

Lego Despicable Me 4 Minions & Gru's Family Mansion

The Despicable Me franchise has a hold on us all, and for the kiddos who can't get enough of The Minions or Legos, this build-it-yourself building block set will definitely have them excited and enriched with the challenge of constructing Gru's famous mansion.

Amazon

Bestamtoy 36-Piece Wooden Sorting Stacking Rocks & Stones

Building blocks have come a long way from the basic triangular prisms and rectangles of our youth. This creative set emulates rocks and stones for a unique play experience since your kiddo can stack 'em in endless ways!

Amazon

Fisher-Price Learn & Serve Coffee Cafe Playset

If you know the kid you're shopping for watches mom and dad prep their coffee every morning, let them in on the fun (non-caffeinated, of course) with this play-espresso machine! They'll be whipping up their very own lattes and cappuccinos in no time, and the 'rents will undoubtedly have a great time watching them get to 'work'.

Anthropologie

Mon Ami Christmas Joyful Tree Kids Plush Toy

This cheerful tree plush rings in the Christmas season in the most adorable way possible. It's "soft, snuggly, and full of personality" to become your little pal's perfect companion!

Target

Syncfun Marble Run Set

With a whopping 196 pieces to play with and customize, this set is full of surprises and endless ways to race marbles. It's the gift that keeps on giving, since your kiddo can change the track day after day.

Target

Tonies Peppa Pig Toniebox Starter Set

This squishable speaker pairs up with Peppa Pig to play 9 different audible stories, songs, and more interactive sounds for your little one to listen to. It offers a great, screen-free way to keep them enriched and entertained throughout the day!

Anthropologie

Mon Ami Monsieur Croissant

This adorable animated croissant plush will inspire joy (and comfort) for any kiddo.

Bombas

Bombas Toddler Minions Gripper Calf Sock 4-Pack Gift Box

If they're totally crazy for the Minions franchise, they can now rock their favorite characters every single day. This sock gift box includes four different playful designs, plus you could even snag them in adult sizes to match!

Amazon

Areaware Cubebot

This puzzle-y friend can contort into dozens of different poses for your little one to play around with. If they're not too big on the puzzle part, this colorful guy still makes a pretty epic action figure!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

The best part of english classes was discovering new authors because of assigned summer reading. I'd pretend to "complain," but I loved when my mom took me to the public library to find books I'd eventually cherish. From Maya Angelou's pivotal memoir to Barbara Kingsolver's assessment of one family's mission work, I learned women could be powerful wordsmiths.

As much as I love reading contemporary romance books or political thrillers that remind me of Paradise, the following novels are the ones I revisit when my TBR list is too overwhelming!

Read the instant-classic books that introduced me to the most iconic female authors of all time

Amazon

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice was the only book that challenged me because it's the true definition of a "slow burn" read. Between you and I, Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy are the blueprint for the love stories found in Bridgerton because their romance wasn't rushed. The familiar strangers-to-lovers troupe is there, but Jane Austen took her time showing the seeds of how things blossomed between them.

Amazon

Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie

What was supposed to be a luxurious train ride turns into murder when the wealthy Samuel Edward Ratchett is discovered dead during a terrible storm. The guests are bewildered because it appears no one could've accessed his door from the outside, but his fatal wounds indicate otherwise. Detective Hercule Poirot is sure one of the guests is feigning innocence, but he'll have to deduce who was skilled enough to commit an undetectable murder.

Amazon

The Color Purple by Alice Walker

I was introduced to the film version of The Color Purple when I was a little girl and it left a memorable imprint on my mind. Starring Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey, I believed they were Celie and Sofia for the longest. It's the reason why I devoured Alice Walker's book when I was old enough to read it. Mainly, the themes of sisterhood, sexism, racism, and love painted a vivid picture of life for Black women in the deep South. In their story, readers are sure to find something to relate to.

Amazon

White Teethby Zadie Smith

Zadie Smith's White Teeth outlines a friendship between two people from different backgrounds, showing how life isn't always confined to certain "rules." The things Archie Jones and Samad Iqbal found after fighting together in World War II have a profound effect on their friendship as well as their lives. From falling in love again to producing children who challenge the world around them, these two friends struggle to maintain a lease on the things they thought to be true.

Amazon

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou's I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings tells of her upbringing in the south with her brother Bailey. From witnessing the strength of their grandmother to experiencing terror at the hands of a "trusted" adult, Maya learns valuable lessons about tenacity, wit, and kindness at a young age. It's these very things that make her one of the greatest literary minds whose work I've been fortunate to read.

Amazon

To Kill a Mockingbirdby Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird broke me into pieces and stitched me back together after I read it for the first time. It's another book that touches on the limiting beliefs that the South is known for and its effect on those around them. Though beautiful, this region hasn't always been the kindest to Black people as evidenced by a one lawyer's determination to prove the innocence of a wrongly accused man.

Amazon

Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood

Margaret Atwood is known for writing dystopian books that paint a somewhat bleak picture of our future. In Oryx and Crake, readers are introduced to "Snowman" who ditched his former name Jimmy once a terrible tragedy changed the trajectory of the world around him. Not only is he alone as the last full being, he's also lost two people he loved dearly. The only thing that keeps Snowman going are Crake's children as he seeks to find the source of the greatest genetic breakdown known to mankind.

Amazon

The Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler

The Parable of the Sower follows Lauren Olamina as she goes from living a protected life to being unable to ignore the realities of those who aren't as fortunate as her. She witnesses how societal and socioeconomic changes affect others, not including the growing calls to pay attention to the climate. As scary as it is, Lauren decides to take a stand to help others and witnesses a rebirth that no one's able to ignore.

Amazon

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

I still remember watching Kerry Washington and Reese Witherspoon take on the characters found in Celeste Ng's Little Fires Everywhere during the height of the pandemic. It opened up conversations about motherhood and the choices women make that follow us even when we don't want them to. From confronting cover racism to realizing how a life unfulfilled leads to pushing children to live lives we've always wanted to, the world of Shaker Heights is taken for a wild ride when Mia Warren comes into town.

Amazon

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver

Last but not least, there's this incredible work of Barbara Kingsolver. I find myself revisiting The Poisonwood Bible because the themes of it feel more relevant than ever. From the blind faith of Baptist preacher Nathan Price to his wife finally finding her voice after their youngest daughter died, neither they or their children leave the Belgian Congo unscathed. Despite their best efforts to adapt, this family learns that their ignorance stemming from a domineering patriarchal household caused them to be chewed up and spit out. That sometimes there's more than one way to find God, love, and justice if we're willing to look.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Even if you own endless options, what truly makes a great shoe collection is having the right ones. From classic sneakers to sleek boots, these 8 shoe styles are essential for pulling together any outfit in style and practicality. If you’re looking to build up a versatile shoe lineup, these must-have pairs belong in every closet.

Scroll on for 8 essential shoes worth investing in for every occasion!

1. Classic (& Comfy!) Black Heels

Steve Madden

Steve Madden Irenee Black Leather Heels

A well-fitted pair of heels can instantly elevate any outfit, whether it’s for work, formal events, or nights out.

DSW

Naturalizer Bristol Sandals

The most crucial part about having a pair of go-to heels is that they’re comfortable. Don’t go too crazy with the heel height or settle for straps that dig into your skin! Having a reliable black or nude heel also ensures you can wear ‘em across tons of different occasions.

2. Tall Black Boots

Amazon

QIY Knee High Boots

Tall black boots go with just about anything, so they’re not only stylish, but practical, too! Choosing a pair of tall black boots with a comfy insole and walkable heel height can be really useful for the cooler months.

Free People

Jeffrey Campbell Katrina Pull-On Tall Boots

They look effortlessly chic over skinny jeans, under skirts, or with sweater dresses!

3. Ballet Flats

Rothy's

Rothy's The Double Buckle Mary Janes

Ballet flats are the perfect mix of comfort and femininity, and they’re pretty much the ideal everyday shoe for work and weekends alike.

Quince

Quince Italian Leather Glove Ballet Flats

Ballet flats provide a formal, polished look without the pain of heels and can be worn with anything from office attire to baggy jeans and a graphic tee. A neutral or classic black pair is a closet essential for easy styling!

4. Walking Sneakers

Saucony

Saucony Ride 18 Sneakers

If you like to get your steps in, you might as well do it in sheer comfort!

New Balance

New Balance 530 Sneakers

A supportive pair of walking sneakers is a must for staying active. Whether you're running errands, exploring a new city, or going on a long hot girl walk, the right pair will keep your feet oh-so happy. Look for cushioned soles and breathable materials.

5. Street Style Sneakers

Adidas

Adidas Gazelle Bold Shoes

While walking sneakers are a total necessity, they don’t always work with every outfit due to their more technical-looking designs. That’s why you need a stylish pair of fashion-forward sneaks!

SeaVees

SeaVees Acorn Trainers

Street style sneakers are perfect for casual outfits, and especially for occasions you don’t really feel like wearing open-toed shoes.

6. Cozy Sandals

Teva

Teva Flatform Universal Sandals

Sandals with a lil’ bit of support are crucial – especially for spring and summer. When it’s hot out, you want your feet to be able to breathe without sacrificing comfort.

Chaco

Chaco Townes Midform Sandals

Opt for cushioned soles, secure straps, and soft materials to keep your feet comfortable while still looking cute!

7. Rain Boots

Quince

Quince Waterproof Ankle Rain Boots

We all know that rainy days can quickly ruin your shoes. That’s not until you have a sturdy pair of rain boots to rely on! Waterproof and durable, they keep your feet dry while still looking stylish.

Hunter

Hunter Refined Tall Rain Boots

A sleek pair in black or a fun pop of color can brighten up a gloomy day while protecting your steps from puddles and mud.

8. Slippers

Nordstrom

UGG Tazz Platform Slippers

When you’re stuck at home, a cozy pair of slippers is essential. They provide warmth and such coziness, especially during colder months.

Bombas

Bombas Sunday Mule Slippers

Look for pairs that offer some support for walking around indoors. Choose soft, plush materials for the ultimate cozy experience!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.