Art weekends are the perfect excuse to slow down, unwind, and try something new – whether you’ve got 20 minutes or a lazy afternoon to spare. These relaxing art ideas are a lovely way to switch off and do something for yourself. You don’t need to be “good at art” to give them a go – just bring a curious spirit and enjoy the process.

Acrylic pour beach

Image: @pattysoriente.art

Inspired by the ocean? This beach-themed pour painting is a calming and creative way to experiment with colour and flow. Using pouring paints and a round canvas, you can layer golden browns, cool blues, and foamy whites to create your own little piece of the coast. Just tilt the canvas, use a straw, or gently swipe the colours to create the blend – let the paint guide you!

Easy gradient painting

Add a tactile twist to a classic colour fade! This piece uses thick dabs of acrylic paint to build texture across a gradient – starting dark and dramatic at the top and fading into soft, dreamy whites. You can use a palette knife, your fingers, or even a piece of cardboard to dab and layer the paint. It’s a great one to zone out with your favourite playlist while you get stuck in to texture and colour. See how we made this painting by following our handy tutorial video.

Make your own magnets at home

Image: @ashley.sketch

Brighten up your fridge with little magnets shaped like cherries, pasta, or even ducks with bows! These ones are made from polymer clay and baked to set, but you can also use air dry clay and glue on magnets afterward. Keep it simple or mix in lots of colours for a cheerful, kitschy vibe. Making magnets is great activity to do solo our with mates to make your weekend feel extra special.

Sea shell canvas wall art

This mixed media creation by Hsin Lin blends painting with nature. The background is a soft ocean gradient, but the real magic comes from gluing on shells and painting delicate details around them. Check out the full process in our step-by-step video – anyone can have a go!

Painting on a postcard

Image: @snailmailkatie

Short on time? Pick up a watercolour postcard or recycled card and paint a quick silhouette scene on top. A sunset gradient and simple lighthouse make a lovely base, and it’s such a fun way to experiment without any pressure. Plus, it’s mailable art – send it to a friend or pop it in a frame to share the creativity! 

How to attach hanging wire to canvas

Once you’ve created something you're proud of, why not pop it up on the wall? This moon canvas isn’t just a lovely project – it’s a reminder that displaying your art is part of the fun. You can attach hanging wire to the back of a canvas in just a few steps – we’ll show you how in our quick video! It’s a great little weekend win, and your wall will thank you!

Still thinking “I’m not creative”? That’s okay. These ideas are all about exploring, relaxing, and maybe surprising yourself. Start with what feels fun – and remember, your weekend art is just for you. You've got this! 🎨🧡

Share anything you make by using #montmarteart or tag us @montmarteart on Instagram or Facebook. We’d love to see what you come up with 🎨

If you want to see more art, browse our Inspo collection. You can sign-up to Creative Connection by popping in your email down below to get stacks of free art projects sent straight to you. We’re here to keep you inspired!