Estimated time to make this valentine:
Approximately one hour.

Appropriate age group(s):
Preschool and Younger
Elementary School

Materials:
A potato
A paring knife (for adults only)
Tooth picks
Paint
Paper or T-shirt

Instructions:
1. Cut the potato in half and use a toothpick to etch a heart shape design into one side of the freshly cut area.
2. Use a paring knife to cut away the potato that you don't want in the design.
3. Dip the cut edge of the potato into the paint and press onto paper or cloth. Repeating the pattern can create a very effective design.
4. Add your own message and decorate as you wish.

Other comments or suggestions to consider:
This project is easy, fun and can be adapted to any holiday or special event by the design and message you choose. Use this idea to make pictures, cards or personalize T-shirts. You can also use different foods such as lemons or limes cut crosswise, or corn-on-the-cob rolled in paint! Try creating your own shapes out of sponges for another great effect.