Toysmith Solar Print Kit Review: Sun-Powered Art for Kids

Unleash your inner artist with the Toysmith Solar Print Kit! This exciting kit provides everything needed to create stunning, sun-powered artwork. Inside, you'll find 12 solar print sheets, two stencil sheets brimming with design ideas, plus two frames and note cards for showcasing and sharing your creations. It's more than just a craft; it's a complete artistic experience packaged for fun and easy use. Perfect for budding artists of all ages (5 and up, with adult supervision recommended), the kit combines the thrill of scientific discovery with the joy of artistic expression.The process is simple and engaging. Using sunlight as your primary tool, you'll create unique designs by strategically placing objects on light-sensitive paper. Watch as the sun transforms the paper, revealing your masterpiece in a beautiful interplay of light and shadow. The Toysmith Solar Print Kit offers a fantastic opportunity to explore creativity, learn about light-sensitive chemistry, and enjoy the great outdoors all at once. Get ready for a sun-filled crafting adventure!

Read more: Smartivity Magic of Science Kit Review: 50+ Engaging Experiments for Kids

Unboxing and Kit Contents

The Toysmith Solar Print Kit arrives packed with everything you need to create unique sun-printed artwork. Inside the box, you'll discover 12 solar print sheets, offering ample opportunity for creative exploration. Also included are two pre-printed stencil sheets, providing inspiration and guidance for beginners. This kit further enhances the experience with two frames for showcasing your masterpieces and three note cards and envelopes for sharing your creations.

Shot showcasing the contents of the Solar Print Kit, including the print sheets, stencils, frames and notecards.
Shot showcasing the contents of the Solar Print Kit, including the print sheets, stencils, frames and notecards.

The additional elements, like the frames and note cards, elevate the kit beyond a simple craft project, making it a thoughtful gift for creative individuals. The simple instruction sheet provides clear and concise guidance on using the kit; it’s easy to follow, even for younger artists.

Creating Your Solar Print

The process is based on a chemical reaction triggered by sunlight. You begin by cutting out images from the stencil sheets or using found objects. Finding a dark, shady area is crucial for preparing the solar print paper, as it's sensitive to light. Once you've selected your design elements, carefully remove a sheet of the solar print paper from its dark bag, making sure to quickly reseal it to protect the remaining sheets from exposure.

Person cutting out shapes from a stencil.
Person cutting out shapes from a stencil.
Showing the process of taking the solar print paper out of its dark bag.
Showing the process of taking the solar print paper out of its dark bag.

With the blue side facing up, position your chosen objects onto the paper. Expose the paper to direct sunlight for one to three minutes, depending on the sun's intensity. Observe the paper closely – it will begin to lighten as the sun reacts with the chemicals in the paper. Once it's nearly white, quickly rinse it with water to halt the reaction.

Placing objects onto the solar print paper.
Placing objects onto the solar print paper.
Rinsing the solar print paper under water.
Rinsing the solar print paper under water.

Final Results and Considerations

After rinsing and drying, your solar print will revert to a blue hue, revealing the unique design created by the sun’s exposure to the light-sensitive paper. The final artwork showcases a beautiful contrast between the exposed and unexposed areas. Remember, direct sunlight yields the best results, although it can be done through a window; however, it will take longer and the results may be less crisp.

The final solar print design.
The final solar print design.

This kit is recommended for ages 5 and up, with adult supervision strongly advised. The use of scissors and incorporating found objects encourages creativity and adds a personalized touch. Kids who enjoy science, arts, and crafts will appreciate this engaging kit. It’s a great way to spend time outdoors while engaging in a creative project and learning a bit about light-sensitive chemicals.

Highlighting the recommended age and adult supervision.
Highlighting the recommended age and adult supervision.

Overall Impression

The Toysmith Solar Print Kit is a fun, simple, and educational craft activity that yields unique, memorable keepsakes. The ease of use and clear instructions make it accessible to a wide range of ages and skill levels. It's a fantastic way to combine art, science, and outdoor exploration.

Final shot showcasing the completed artwork and overall positive assessment of the kit.
Final shot showcasing the completed artwork and overall positive assessment of the kit.

The kit's ability to provide both creative expression and a learning opportunity makes it a worthwhile purchase. The added bonus of the frames and note cards enhances the experience and makes it easy to share and display your artwork. If you are looking for an engaging and unique activity for kids or just want to explore a new creative process, the Toysmith Solar Print Kit is highly recommended.