Make Your Own Finger Paints
Kids love to paint. Especially with their fingers. I suggest using
the paints outside or on a tile floor that is easy to clean up. Have
the children help prepare the paint. This is a great way for them to
learn about the abbreviations and how to prepare a recipe and
following directions. The ingredients for these recipes can be found
at your local Grocery Store.
- c. = cup
- tbsp. = tablespoon
- tsp. = teaspoon
Finger Paint Recipe 1
Dries to a matte (dull) finish.
Ingredients:
- ½ c. flour
- 2 c. water
- 1 tbsp. glycerin
- 1 tsp. borax
- several small jars for storing paints
- food coloring
Directions:
- Mix the flour with ½ c. water to form a paste.
- Add the rest of the water and cook over low heat until the
mixture is thick and clear, stirring constantly.
- Cool the mixture and then add the glycerin and the borax.
If the mixture is too thick, you may add a little more
water.
- Divide the mixture into the jars and add the desired color.
Activity Extension:
Have the children make different colors of paint by combining the
colors. For example, yellow and blue make green, red and blue make
purple, etc.
Finger Paint Recipe 2
Dries to a glossy finish
Ingredients:
- ½ c. cornstarch
- ¾ c. cold water
- 2 c. hot water
- 2 tsp. boric acid
- 1 tbsp. glycerin
- several small jars with lids
- food coloring
Directions:
- Mix the cornstarch with ¼ c. of cold water and make
a paste.
- Add the hot water, stirring quickly and vigorously to prevent
lumps.
- Cook the mixture over low heat and stir it constantly.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and add the rest of the cold
water and the boric acid.
- Stir until well mixed and add the glycerin.
- Divide the mixture into the jars and add the desired coloring.
This paint dries slowly.