Mermaid Tail Close-Up

This page zooms right in on the most magical part of a mermaid: her tail. A large curving tail fills the whole page, covered in neat rows of overlapping scales and ending in a wide, flowing fan-shaped fin, with a few small bubbles and a starfish resting against it. Because it is all about the scales, this page is a relaxing, almost meditative project, perfect for anyone who loves repeating patterns. Older kids and adults can have fun with color-by-pattern, while younger children can simply fill big patches of scales. Many fish have overlapping scales too, which protect their bodies and help them glide smoothly through the water. Try an ombré effect, shifting slowly from one color to another down the length of the tail, or color each row a different shade. Print it on US Letter or A4 and lose yourself in the scales.