How to Make Shimmering Finger Paints

9 authors | 24 revisions | Last updated: December 12, 2012

Radiance, Tom Viren, Dvortygirl, Sondra C, Flickety, Lojjik Braughler, Maluniu, TechEnthusiast(Mike), ZareenPin ItArticle EditDiscuss

Finger painting is always fun! Suitable from age one, this is a great way to get children used to texture, art and creativity. Add a little glitter for a different effect which will enthrall younger artists.

Edit Steps1Mix all the ingredients together in a medium pan. (See list of ingredients below.)

2Cook over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on how the ingredients are heating, to avoid burning.

3Keep stirring the finger paint mixture until it is smooth and thick.

It may seem like the paint will not thicken, but be patient. The paint starts to really thicken up towards the end of cooking time. Do not add any more ingredients; the paint ends up being too thick to use.4After the finger paint has thickened, take the pan off the stove. Let the mixture cool.

5Place the paints in containers. After cooling, divide the finger paint into storage containers (the number of containers depends on how many colors you would like). Alternatively, store uncolored finger paint in a large container and put small amounts into compartments of an ice cube tray or plastic egg carton to color and use now.

6Add a few drops of food coloring to each container. Just use one drop if you're using an ice cube tray.

7Try mixing colors or paints to get different colors. For example, red and blue make purple.

8Stir the coloring into the paint to determine the shade of color.

9If using, add the desired amount of glitter.

10Stir well to get the glitter really mixed in.

11Cover tightly to store.

Edit TipsAdd a drop of wintergreen oil to keep the paints from going bad.You can also add extract to give the paint a nice smell; try mint for green, lemon for yellow, etc.This paint is non-toxic as long as you don't add glitter. Glitter paint should be reserved for older children who know not to eat it.An old plastic tablecloth is great to put under kids' craft projects.

Edit WarningsGlitter can damage the eyes if rubbed in. If your child is too young to understand "don't touch your face with paint on your hands", leave out the glitter.If you make dark colors, your fingers may be stained. Also, make sure to wear a painting apron, smock, or old clothes to protect clothing.

Edit Things You'll NeedA medium cooking pot to mix and heat paint1/2 cup cornstarch3 Tbsp sugar1/2 tsp salt2 cups cold waterFood coloring (different colors)Glitter (optional, and amount depends on your preference)Spatula or other stirring utensilContainers; saved yogurt cups with lids might be good

Edit Related wikiHowsHow to Make Bread Dough Clay & ItemsHow to Make Play DoughHow to Mix Paint Colors to Make BrownHow to Color in a Coloring BookHow to Draw and Color With Microsoft PaintHow to Mix Colors to Get TurquoiseArticle Info Featured Article

Categories: Featured Articles | Kids' Crafts

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