Watercolour painting is a fantastic way for kids to explore colour, creativity, and self-expression! Whether they’re making cards, decorating eggs, or experimenting with painted textures, watercolours are a safe paint that easy to clean up while wet. Best of all, your little artists will be developing their fine motor skills while creating so it’s a win-win!
1. Wax resist watercolour
Watercolour resists anything waxy, which makes for a fun surprise when kids paint over secret drawings!
How to do it:
- Use a white crayon or oil pastel to draw shapes, words, or doodles on watercolour paper
- Let the kiddos paint over the paper with watercolour
- Watch as the hidden drawings magically appear!
Try this technique to make invisible messages, snowflakes, or starry night scenes.
2. Watercolour stencils
Stencils are a great way for kids to create shapes and patterns while learning control over their brushstrokes.
How to do it:
- Cut out simple shapes in thick paper or card using a craft knife (hearts, stars, animals) – get a grown-up to help or supervise
- Tape the stencil lightly to your watercolour paper
- Let your little artists dab watercolour paint inside the stencil using a sponge or brush
- Remove the stencil to reveal a clean, crisp shape!
This technique is great for making homemade wrapping paper, greeting cards, or artwork to put up around the house.
3. Bubble wrap painting
Bubble wrap is not just for popping – it also creates amazing watercolour textures!
How to do it:
- Paint a layer of watercolour paint onto a piece of bubble wrap
- Press the painted side onto paper and gently pat it down
- Peel away the bubble wrap to reveal a fun spotty texture!
Try using different colours and overlapping layers for a unique, abstract effect.
4. Plastic wrap painting
Plastic wrap (cling film) creates unexpected textures and patterns in watercolour paintings – ideal for an artwork background.
How to do it:
- Paint a wet layer of watercolour onto paper
- While still wet, place a crinkled piece of plastic wrap over the top
- Let it dry completely before peeling it away
The paint will pool under the plastic, leaving abstract, mosaic-like shapes, ideal for creating oceans, trees, or even dragon scales! This effect is even cooler when you use lots of different colours and watch how they mingle under the plastic.
5. Watercolour spray
If your kids love a bit of mess and fun, spray painting with watercolours is a must-try activity!
How to do it:
- Mix watercolour paint with water in a small spray bottle
- Place paper outside or on a covered surface
- Let the kiddos spray paint onto the paper, layering colours for different effects
This is a super easy way to make galaxy skies, abstract art, or cool splatter backgrounds. It’s also a creative way to get those fine motor skills working as they pull the spray bottle trigger and aim the nozzle.
6. Salt and watercolour
A sprinkle of salt can create interesting, sparkly textures in watercolour paintings. Plus, it’s like a mini science experiment!
How to do it:
- Paint a layer of watercolour onto your paper
- While still wet, sprinkle table salt over the paint
- Let it dry, then brush off the salt to reveal a crystal-like texture
This technique is great for making snowy scenes, starry night skies, or colourful outer space art.
7. Watercolour eggs
Painting real or paper eggs with watercolours is a fun craft that kids of all ages can enjoy (whether it’s Easter of not!).
How to do it:
- Drain the insides from real eggs and leave to dry or cut out egg shapes from thick paper
- Paint them with watercolours, blending colours for a soft, tie-dye effect
- Use a fine paintbrush or marker to add details like polka dots, swirls, faces, or tiny flowers
This is a great Easter activity, but it’s also a fun way to play with watercolours all year round.
8. DIY watercolour cards
Handmade cards are a thoughtful and fun way for kids to share their creativity with their peers and loved ones.
How to do it:
- Fold watercolour paper in half to make a card
- Let the kiddos paint freely or try some of the previous techniques
- Once dry, add stickers, stamps, or hand-drawn messages
This one is great for adding a handmade touch to holidays, birthdays, and other seasonal events. Your little artist will be proud as punch to share their artwork with your loved ones!
Watercolour painting is all about exploration and fun, so let your little artists mix, splash, and experiment with these simple techniques. Stock up on kids’ watercolours, watercolour paper, and kids’ brushes to start creating today! 🎨✨
If you create and play at home, #montmarteart or tag us @montmarteart on Instagram or Facebook. We’d love to see what you come up with!
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