Simply add a few squirts of paint into a large sealable plastic bag. Ensure it’s sealed well and stick the bag to the window with basic sticky tape or masking tape. Your little one will be able to use their fingers to move the paint around but without getting messy.
25 of the best finger painting ideas
Finger painting is a fun activity for kids and it’s a great way to introduce them to art at an early age. Art has lots of benefits for young children: it can help them to develop fine motor skills, learn about colour mixing and connect with their senses. It’s also a good way to help young children explore their creative sides and how they see the world.
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There are so many finger painting ideas you can show them – from trees with finger-shaped leaves to patterns made with a hand print. You can use finger painting to create pictures of everything from snowmen to hot air balloons – the possibilities are endless. You can also combine finger painting with collage or painting using a brush, depending on your child’s age and stage.
Some of these easy finger painting ideas your child may be able to try by themselves, but other ideas may require some adult help or need your guidance to start them off. It’s best not to leave them unattended with the paints as you could end up with some new decorations on your walls!
We’ve included some finger painting ideas for toddlers along with projects for older children, so there’s something for everyone.
Did you know that grown-ups can do finger painting too? We’ve also included several finger painting ideas for adults which are really impressive – read on to see for yourself!
What you need to start finger painting with children
The good news is that you don’t need lots supplies to start finger painting with children. Here are the basics:
- Finger paints or poster paints
- A smock or apron (or an old t-shirt) to protect the child’s clothes
- Newspaper or a wipeable tablecloth – to protect your table
- Paper
Bear in mind that not all children like getting their hands dirty and find the sensation of the paint unpleasant to begin with. It’s worth keeping a damp cloth or some wet wipes nearby in case your child wants their hands cleaned – or in case things get too messy!
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Most finger paints are washable and are unlikely to stain your furniture, so you don’t need to feel stressed if your child touches anything while they have paint on your hands. Always check that the finger paints you’re using are non-toxic in case your child tries to eat the paint or puts their fingers in their mouths.
Here are a few recommendations for finger paints that are kind on little fingers and won’t stain your clothes:
Crayola finger paints
Crayola’s finger painting sets are hugely popular and great value for money. The set includes a variety of bright colours for kids to play with. These finger paints are incredibly easy to clean up and will wash out of most fabric types. Highly recommended.
Arteza finger paints
Inspire your child’s creative with this set of 30 colours! These finger paints are very vibrant and can be used on most surfaces. The paints are easy to clean up once you’ve finished using them and won’t stain children’s fingers.
Looking for more creative ideas to try with your children? Check out our craft ideas for kids, crafts for toddlers and easy Halloween crafts for kids.
Read on to discover our favourite easy finger painting ideas…
Featured image by iStock/anaimd
25 easy finger painting ideas
1. Snap dragons
This fun finger painting project is easy enough for most children to attempt – although younger children may need the stems and leaves to be drawn onto the paper for them. Try mixing colours together to get two-tone petals. Find this project on busymommymedia.com.
2. Winter tree finger painting
Looking for Christmas finger painting ideas? This winter tree design is perfect – and you could use it to make Christmas cards for friends and family. Learn how to create your own winter tree finger painting with easypeasyandfun.com.
3. Fireworks
Celebrate a special occasion with a finger painting of a night sky filled with glittering fireworks! This is a great project for the 4th of July, New Year’s Eve or Bonfire Night. Find the firework painting tutorial on 3dinosaurs.com.
4. Rainbow
This is a simple finger painting technique, but the results are very impressive. It’s a great way to teach children about the colours of the rainbow and make something beautiful at the same.
5. Easter finger paintings
Isn’t this a cute idea from Kelsey Nixon? This is a wonderful finger painting idea to do with your child. Get them to cover the paper with thumbprints, then use a pen to turn the prints into bunnies, Easter eggs or anything else you can imagine. If you’re doing this with younger children, it can help them to get started if you do a couple for them to copy.
6. Elephants
You can also create finger paintings using your whole hand to create a variety of fun shapes! We particularly love this example from the Crafty Morning blog – it’s so bright and cheerful. You could add your own handprint to create a grown up elephant too.
7. Pineapple
Pineapple finger paintings are enjoyable for both adults and kids to try. Experiment with mixing colours to make tropical pineapples in a range of rainbow shades! It would look great on a child’s bedroom wall to add a splash of colour. Find out how to make it with Penny Pinchin’ Mom’s pineapple finger painting guide.
8. Flower pot
Dig out pastel shades to make this pretty flower pot. It reminds us of a flower-filled meadow! Use it inside the house so that the paints don’t wash away in the rain. Find out how to make your own on jazminmaybell.com.
9. Bonfires
Bonfires are very satisfying for children to paint – they have lots of bright colours and interesting shapes. You can finish off the painting with a dash of glitter too! Find the tutorial on masandpas.com.
10. Autumn tree
Looking for finger painting ideas for toddlers? This fun idea from artcraftykids.com is a good one to try. You can paint the shape of the tree for them or use their handprint, then show them how to use their fingerprints to create a vibrant fall scene.
11. Footprint rocket
We’ve already seen what you can create using handprints, but what about footprints? We love this adorable footprint rocket project from thebestideasforkids.com – and we’re sure children will love making their own!
12. Dandelions
Start your child off by drawing the stalk for them, then show them how to add their own dandelion seeds! Use colourful paper so that the seeds really stand out.
13. Butterfly mugs
Finger painting projects don’t come any prettier than this! This would be a good way for your child to make a gift for a loved one or thank you present for their teacher. You can coat the mugs in a dishwasher-safe varnish to protect the butterfly design. Find out how to make them on thebestideasforkids.com.
14. Edible fingerpaints
Most fingerpaints are unsuitable for babies, but these paints are made using yoghurt and a few drops of food colouring, so they’re perfectly safe for your infant to use. It’s a wonderful sensory play activity for them and you don’t need to worry about them eating the paints.
15. Flowers
This finger painting project is better for older children, although younger children may be able to manage it with some assistance. Why not paint beautiful flowers in an array of beautiful colours?
16. Corn on the cob
Combine collate and finger painting to create a cute corn on the cob picture. Tissue or crepe paper can be used to create realistic leaves to complete the picture.
16. Paper plate peacocks
This is a great craft project for a rainy afternoon – the cheerful colours and creative design are bound to lift everyone’s spirits! Googly eyes are the perfect finishing touch to give your peacocks some character. Learn how to make a paper plate peacock on iheartartsandcrafts.com.
17. Peacock thumb painting
Here’s another great way to create a peacock finger painting from Art For Kids on YouTube. Thumbprints are a good way to create even oval shapes and they make lovely peacock feathers.
18. Snowmen
Looking for Christmas finger painting ideas? These cute little snowmen are full of personality and would look amazing on a Christmas card. Find the snowman tutorial on iheartcraftythings.com.
19. Shells
Finger painting is good fun for grown-ups too! If you’re an artist and you’re struggling to be creative at the moment, trying a new technique can help you to see the world differently. Explore our finger painting ideas for adults to free up your creativity. Artist Alisa Burke used this shell painting to step outside of her comfort zone – and the finished finger painting is really lovely.
20. Roses
Finger paints lend themselves to floral designs, as they can allow you to create very natural-looking flowing shapes. This is a great technique to try if you want to develop a looser painting style. Learn how to create a flower finger painting with Alisa Burke. Looking for more floral art projects? Take a look at our easy watercolor flowers guide.
21. Fish pond
Iris Scott is a talented artist from New Mexico who creates phenomenal finger paintings using oil paints. In this YouTube tutorial, she reveals some of her techniques so you can try making your own incredible finger paintings at home.
22. Floral furniture
Don’t keep your finger paintings on paper and canvas – you can create beautiful finger paintings on your furniture too. According to The Turquoise Iris, your fingers are the best tool for blending and can be used to create a seamless blend.
23. Full moon
Combine speed painting and finger painting techniques to create this dramatic full moon scene. Watch the video tutorial to learn how to do it for yourself.
24. Journal pages
Fill your art journal with an array of floral designs – don’t be afraid to fill both pages with flowers and greenery, as Alisa Burke has done here. Looking for more art journal inspiration? Check out our art journal ideas feature.
25. Ocean waves
There’s something very hypnotic about Dzvenyslava Valaga’s ocean waves painting video. She manages to create amazing textures on the canvas using her fingertips and oil paints. She’s wearing gloves to keep her fingers clean and oil-free.
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We hope you enjoyed these easy finger painting ideas! If you’re looking for more painting ideas for adults, take a look at our watercolor painting ideas, acrylic painting ideas and gouache painting ideas.
Authors
Sarah Orme Digital Editor, Gathered
Sarah Orme is a UK-based linocut printmaker, digital editor, feature writer and award-winning podcaster. She’s been editing the sewing and art sections of Gathered.how – and before that our sister website calmmoment.com – for over 3 years. She’s the host of Gathered’s We’ve Made It podcast and A Calmer Life podcast. She’s a keen crafter and artist and loves creating DIY tutorials for Gathered. Sarah has previously written features for The Guardian, In The Moment Magazine, Project Calm Magazine, countryfile.com, radiotimes.com and yourhomestyle.uk. She enjoys designing her own unique lino prints and dreams of opening her own online shop. She shares her work @sarahormeprints
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Comments
- Danya atDanyaBanya says July 21, 2013 at 6:26 am
Great idea! I think I might do this tonight….
- Kate Lloyd says July 26, 2013 at 6:24 am
Thanks Danya! I hope it went well. I appreciate the comment.
We did this the other day and it worked! Except that JJ figured out how to take the tape off and open the bags. And then it turned into a messy painting session, which was totally fun too.
My thoughts excatly when I saw this pretty cool, what if they become clever and try to open the bag.
I love this activity! We haven’t done this for over a year and in smaller bags. These would look great on our big sliding door.
- Kate Lloyd says July 26, 2013 at 6:25 am
Oh Amie it would be perfect on a big sliding door. I hope I’ve inspired you to revisit this activity.
Thanks for the comment.
Great pictures! I’ve tried that with my little one, and she didn’t like it. She does love to finger paint. Kids are so different
- Kate Lloyd says July 26, 2013 at 6:26 am
They absolutely are lovely Laura. In time she will begin to understand your expectations but until then enjoy the wonderful fun of finger painting.
Thanks for your comment.
I’ve done this activity before but I had it taped to the floor. I am going to try taping it to the window. Thank you for posting this!
- Kate Lloyd says July 26, 2013 at 6:27 am
Oh the floor is a great idea too. I would love you to try it on a window or similar. Great for muscle strength too! Have fun with it. Much appreciate your comment.
That’s great to know. I was just wondering if I could sick this to the floor or table for my non mobile LO.
- Kate says July 6, 2015 at 7:55 am
I don’t see why not Caroline. I’d just be careful with the type of sticky you use and make sure you test it first.
I’m so excited to come across this post! Little E has been sick and so it will be indoors play today and I’ve been trying to think of something fun (and not messy) to do and this is it! Mummy is excited! Thanks for linking up for Mummy Mondays! Eva x
The Multitasking Mummy
- Kate Lloyd says July 26, 2013 at 6:27 am
My pleasure. This is the perfect (mess free) indoor activity for kids.
Thank you for your comment.
I’m super excited by this idea! My little one has been sick and so it’s indoors play today although I didn’t know what to do…but now I do! Thanks for linking up to Mummy Mondays! Eva x
The Multitasking Mummy
ooh, good idea putting it on the window! Must try this with N
- Kate Lloyd says July 26, 2013 at 6:28 am
Little N would love this I’m sure! It’s great that it can be an activity they can revisit many times.
Thanks for your comment Debs.
We haven’t done this in ages too. They are so fun aren’t they? And up on the window adds a whole other sensory experience; watching the light interact with the colours. So beautiful. The last ones we did were with food colouring, hair gel and glitter. Nice and sparkly and lots of fun
- Kate Lloyd says July 26, 2013 at 6:29 am
Owww I love the idea of using hair gel and glitter. I’m always on the look out for anything that uses glitter. LOL I’ll be sure to give your idea a go too!
Thanks for you comment Kate.
Love the gel idea. How clever!
We’ve done this on the glass table before but doing it on a window with the sun shining through & vertical is so clever. It looks wonderful & would use different muscles/abilities to ‘paint’ on a vertical surface.
Another on our to do list
- Kate Lloyd says July 26, 2013 at 6:30 am
Thank you for reminding me of this important fact about a child’s use of muscles during this activity. You’re absolutely right and thanks for highlighting this for me. I very much appreciate your comment.
I love this. I set up a similar activity for Cam after seeing it on Octavia and Vicky. The plastic bag was attached to the table top. But, I think she’d love it even more set up on the window- especially with the sun shining in.
- Kate Lloyd says July 26, 2013 at 6:31 am
It’s beautiful with the paint shining through the window. I didn’t know about Kylie’s post. I’ll be sure to go and have a look at it now. Thanks for commenting Jackie.
I love this, newest follower on gfc, I’m always looking for fun stuff to do with my toddlers
- Kate Lloyd says July 26, 2013 at 6:32 am
Thanks for joining in on the fun here at Laughing Kids Learn. I love toddler activities so I’m sure you’ll find lots here.
Much appreciate your comments.
I love the idea of trying these bags on the windows. Fun
I’ve seen this done on tables etc but not on the window. What a brilliant idea. Even R who is much older than Possum would really love this. I might try it tomorrow. I love that it can be left there all day and the kids can come back to it time and again.
What a great idea! I like the idea of putting it on a window! Doing this tomorrow!
- Kate Lloyd says July 26, 2013 at 6:32 am
YAY! I’m glad you like it. I hope it all went well. I’d love to hear if you have a moment to reply.
Thank you so kindly for your comments.
This looks like so much fun, will add to my arts and craft day with the kids
- Kate Lloyd says July 26, 2013 at 6:33 am
This would be the perfect activity for an arts and crafts day Nathalie! I hope it goes well.
Thanks for your comment.
Great idea putting it up to the window. Never thought of that!
- Kate Lloyd says August 7, 2013 at 3:22 am
I’m lucky to have windows that are a great height for Possum. It’s great if this activity can be done on a glass door too. Thanks for commenting.
Thank you for sharing with us at Share it Saturday, we will be featuring this post tomorrow!
- Kate Lloyd says August 7, 2013 at 3:22 am
Thanks you so kindly for featuring this. I appreciate that.
Wonderful! I’ll be featuring it on The Crafty Crow!
- Kate Lloyd says August 7, 2013 at 3:24 am
Thank you so kindly for featuring this activity. It is lots of fun and something that most families can see themselves being able to do easily enough. Huge fan of your site and all that you share. I hope to send through some more ideas in the future. Kate
I love this idea!! I have two very active little boys,3 and 2, and the thought of giving them paint makes me cringe a little!
Great idea — took my 26 month old some warming up, but we also talked about what happens when we mix colors! Very fun.
Thanks for sharing this fun post with Tuesday Tots. I’m featuring it this week
I see what you are headed for with this idea- but think of the age-appropriateness of the activity in terms of painting also. Remember that half of the sensory experience of painting is feeling the brush, learning how the dribbles work, etc. Let me propose that painting is actually as much about the mess, movement and physicality of art as anything else. That said, I don’t think children under 3 are ready for that. Block-style crayons give a great experience for the under 3s. Over 3s I suggest starting with water colours on wet paper – it is less mess than poster-paint style and much much cheaper and easier. do it outside, or in the kitchen- but if mess is your problem, the child might be too young.
- Kate says February 27, 2014 at 11:38 pm
Thank you for your comment Erika, it was interesting to read your view.
I completely agree that children need to feel the texture and sensation of sensory related activities and so I would recommend you checking out some of the other posts on my blog. You’ll see that I encourage this and have absolutely no problem at all with mess, however, I can respect that some people do, hence this idea.
I think I’d also have to disagree on some of your other points. I don’t feel that I should be restricting my child by holding her back from opportunities to engage in such activities just because she isn’t 3 years old. If she can be safe and under active supervision then why wait? Research tells us time and time again that children’s engagement in activities and experiences before the age of 4 will set the path for their future learning and develop greater connections within the brain. I think we’ll have to agree to disagree on that one. I appreciate you commenting though.
The paints on the inside of bag this is a great idea mess free for real
- Kate says February 27, 2014 at 11:21 pm
Absolutely Kayla! The mess is all inside the bag and it keeps hands clean too.
brilliant idea, will surely do it for my just turned 1yro anytime soon … thanks!
- Kate says October 9, 2014 at 9:54 pm
Great Kartika! Thanks for letting me know. My little girl absolutely LOVES this activity and did from such a young age. Enjoy and thanks for sharing a comment with me.
Wow! Thank you so much! I am a preschool teacher and have never thought of doing this activity, I will surely do it today. Thank you so much!
- Kate says February 25, 2015 at 8:50 am
You are more than welcome Joanne. It’s fabulous fun and can be made to suit whatever theme or colour your focusing on. Thank you kindly for the comment. Best wishes.
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