I love DIY art materials. Not only do they have so much to teach kids about resourcefulness, they are wonderful invitation to experiment and explore how common materials can be transformed into art supplies! BONUS: You don’t have to go to the store to buy supplies when you run out!
DIY Paints
You can make your own paint out of so many diffrent materials from your pantry and beyond! Check out all these easy to make homemade paints.
Dough & Sensory Materials
Classic playdough and other sensory materials are easy to make ! Enlist the help of your kids in the making process as well!
Chalk
Chalk is great for creative play outside! Learn how to make your own chalk with these different recipes.
Stamps
Store bought stamps are expensive! Why not make your own stamps at home with some simple recyclables?
DIY Paintbrushes
You don't have to just paint with paintbrushes...look at all these fun ways to paint with everyday objects, natural materials and more!
From the Pantry
You can make some unusal art supplies by simply visiting your panrty...
Paper Making
Making paper is an involved process but if you are ready to tackle this classic project, here are some methods to try.
Fun & Unusual DIY Art Materials
Beyond the basics try some of these more unusual supplies for art making fun!
More:
I’m a DIY kinda gal by nature; I cannot help myself, I just love to make stuff! So when given the chance to make art supplies from scratch or buy them, I will most often choose making them. The upside of making DIY art supplies at home is that the process is half the fun, kids will enjoy both making the supply and using it, and it’s a great lesson in self-reliance and inventiveness all in one.
Also be sure to check out our CREATIVE BASICS SERIES on YouTube where I share classic art and science projects and basic play recipes that every parent, educator and caregiver should have in their toolkit. Start with Episode 1 here:
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Great round-up! Thanks for featuring Craftulate!
Thanks Georgina! I loved the glow dough!
This is such an AWESOME round-up, Ana! I’ll be sharing it everywhere. Thanks so much for including us. 😀
Thank YOU Jen! Mama Papa Bubba has so many fab art supply ideas!
Great round up, thanks for including us 🙂
Thanks Katherine! I HAVE to try your sand play dough!
Wow awesome list, even if I am a little biased! Off to pin! Thanks for including Lalymom! Have a great weekend!
Thanks Laura! The jello idea is absolutely brilliant!
Hey! What a great list! Thanks for including our DIY stamping process!
-Hannah & Blake
Thanks Orange Barrel Industries! Your eraser stamps rock!
very beautiful!!! Thank you