This sunflower mosaic is a beginner-friendly project that feels both rustic and elegant.
Using beans and kernels, you’ll map out a bold floral design on a wooden base that can be hung on the wall or displayed on a shelf.
The process is relaxing, and the end result looks far more intricate than it really is.
It’s a craft you can easily finish in an afternoon, and it makes a thoughtful handmade gift too.
Materials Needed
- 1 wooden board or MDF base (8” × 8” square)
- Yellow corn kernels – approx. 200 kernels
- Black beans – approx. 80 beans
- Red kidney beans – approx. 150 beans
- White beans – approx. 60 beans
- Green mung beans – approx. 40 beans
- Craft glue or hot glue gun
- Pencil and ruler
- Clear varnish or spray sealant
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Prepare your wooden base by sanding lightly if needed. Then wipe off any dust and set it on a flat surface.
Step 2: Use a pencil to sketch a large sunflower design in the center, with two smaller flowers on each side. You can draw stems leading down to the bottom edge.
Step 3: Begin with the sunflower centers. Apply glue to the circle and place black beans tightly together until the circle is filled.
Step 4: For the petals, arrange yellow corn kernels around each center, pressing them in rows until the flower is complete.
Step 5: Fill the background with red beans on the top half and cream-colored beans on the bottom half to create contrast.
You next use green mung beans for the stems and leaves.
Step 6: Outline the whole piece with alternating black and white beans for a framed effect. Allow to dry overnight.
Step 7: Seal the mosaic with a clear varnish or spray to lock everything in place and give it a polished finish.
Notes:
If you want more depth, use two shades of yellow corn (light and dark) for the petals to make the flowers look more dimensional.