You know that moment when your kid wants to paint everything in sight, and you’re caught between encouraging their creativity and worrying about your wallet (and your walls)? I’ve been there. Standing in the craft store aisle, staring at price tags, wondering if I need to take out a second mortgage just to fuel my daughter’s artistic phase.
Here’s the thing: nurturing your child’s creativity doesn’t require emptying your bank account. Trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way after spending way too much on fancy supplies that ended up dried out under the couch. The secret? Knowing which kids craft paint supplies cheap options actually work, and which ones are just pretty packaging.
Let me walk you through everything I’ve discovered about affordable painting supplies that won’t disappoint you or your little artist.
Why Budget-Friendly Paint Supplies Are Actually Brilliant
Before we dive into specific products, let’s flip the script on “cheap” for a second. When my son was three, I splurged on this gorgeous $40 paint set. Guess what happened? He used it twice, mixed all the colors into a muddy brown, and lost interest.
That expensive lesson taught me something valuable: kids need supplies they can experiment with freely. When you’re not wincing every time they squeeze out extra paint, they actually learn better. Plus, washable and affordable go hand-in-hand, which means less stress for everyone.
The Essential Paint Types Every Parent Should Know
Not all paints are created equal, and knowing the difference can save you from a lot of frustration. Here’s what actually matters:
Washable Tempera Paint: Your New Best Friend
This is my go-to for kids under eight. Washable tempera paint kids love comes in vibrant colors, cleans up with just water, and honestly works better than some pricier options. I keep the Crayola Tempera Paint, Washable, 16 oz Bottle from Target stocked in my craft closet. One bottle lasts us months, and it washes out of literally everything—even that white shirt I told them not to wear.
Finger Paints: Mess Worth Making
If you have a toddler, cheap kids finger paints are non-negotiable. The sensory experience is incredible for their development, and products like Crayola Washable Finger Paints, 4 Colors make cleanup a breeze. Pro tip: I spread these activities outside or use a plastic shower curtain as a drop cloth. Game changer.
Watercolors: The Budget MVP
For older kids who want more control, affordable kids craft paints in watercolor form are perfect. The Prang Washable Watercolors, 8 Colors from Michaels are soft, forgiving, and cost less than a fancy coffee. My eight-year-old uses these daily, and we’ve replaced the palette maybe twice in two years.
Comparing Paint Options: What Actually Works
Let me break down the real differences between popular paint types so you can make the smartest choice:
| Paint Type | Best Age Range | Cleanup Difficulty | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washable Finger Paint | 2-5 years | Very Easy | $3-$8 | Sensory play, first painting experiences |
| Tempera Paint | 3-10 years | Easy | $2-$10 per bottle | School projects, poster boards, general crafts |
| Watercolors | 5+ years | Easy | $3-$12 per palette | Detailed work, learning color mixing, painting |
| Paint Sticks | 4+ years | Very Easy | $8-$15 per set | No-mess painting, travel crafts |
| Acrylic Paint | 8+ years | Moderate | $10-$25 per set | Canvas work, permanent projects |
My Top 10 Budget Paint Supply Picks
After years of trial and error (and yes, some epic messes), here are the supplies I actually repurchase:
1. Crayola Washable Kids Paint Set, 10 Count
This is the foundation of our craft arsenal. Ten vibrant, non-toxic colors that genuinely wash out. I grab these from Walmart whenever they’re on sale, and they never disappoint. Perfect for kids craft paint kits budget conscious parents.
2. Crayola Washable Paint Sticks, 12 Count
Okay, these might seem gimmicky, but hear me out. For car rides, waiting rooms, or anywhere you need low-mess craft paint options for toddlers, these are revolutionary. They twist up like glue sticks, and the paint dries quickly. No water, no brushes, no panic.
3. Portfolio Watercolor Paints, 24 Colors
At around $7-$10 on Amazon, this palette gives you 24 colors—that’s less than 50 cents per color! My daughter uses these for everything from greeting cards to science project illustrations.
4. Crayola Paint Brush Set, Assorted Sizes, 4-Pack
Listen, you don’t need artisan brushes for kids who are still learning to hold them correctly. This kids craft paint brushes budget set has held up through countless projects and trips through the dishwasher (yes, I’ve done that).
5. Melissa & Doug Washable Finger Paints
If you want something that feels a bit more premium but still won’t break the bank, these finger paints have a great consistency. They’re thick enough that colors don’t run together immediately, giving kids more control.
6. Darice Tempera Paint Set, 12 Colors
For budget kids paint sets that actually perform, Darice is consistently reliable. The 12-pack gives you variety without the price tag, and the colors are genuinely bright—not that sad, washed-out version of “red” that some cheaper brands offer.
7. Kid Made Modern Washable Glitter Glue
Because sometimes you need a little sparkle. This cleans up easily and scratches the “fancy” itch without costing much. My kids save this for “special” projects, which makes it last forever.
8. Ooly Washable Kids Paint, 6 Colors
I discovered Ooly at a local bookstore, and I’m obsessed. These paints have a slightly nicer finish than basic tempera, making kids’ artwork look more “professional” without the professional price.
9. Faber-Castell Tempera Paints, 8 Colors
For when you want something slightly higher quality but still affordable, Faber-Castell hits that sweet spot. The pigments are richer, and they layer well—important if your kid is getting more serious about their art.
10. Art 101 Kids Paint Brush Set
A variety pack of different brush sizes and shapes that helps kids explore different techniques. This set costs less than three fancy coffee drinks but opens up a world of creative possibilities.
Setting Up a Kids Paint Station Without Spending a Fortune
You don’t need to buy a dedicated craft table (though if you see one at a garage sale, grab it!). Here’s what I actually use:
The Work Surface: An old tablecloth or plastic shower curtain liner from the dollar store. I have several stashed away, and they’re lifesavers.
Paint Storage: Instead of buying fancy organizers, I use:
- Old muffin tins for paint palettes (perfect for cheap kids craft paint trays)
- Glass jars from pasta sauce for water
- A shower caddy to hold everything—brushes, paints, the works
Smock Solutions: Cut armholes in old oversized t-shirts. Seriously. My kids call them their “artist shirts,” and I don’t stress about ruining clothes.
Drying Rack: A cheap dish drying rack works perfectly for drying paintings. Stack it with newspaper underneath for drips.
Shopping Smart: Where to Find the Best Deals
I’ve become a bit of a detective when it comes to scoring discount kids craft paint offers. Here’s where I hunt:
Walmart: Consistently has the best prices on Crayola products, and their rollback deals are genuine. The Crayola Washable Kids Paint Set is usually cheaper here than anywhere else.
Amazon: Watch for Subscribe & Save discounts, and check the “Other Sellers” section. Sometimes the same product is $3 cheaper from a different seller. Plus, you can find bulk kids craft paint cheap options here.
Target: Their Cartwheel app (now the Target app) has regular deals on art supplies. I’ve gotten 20-25% off kids craft paint sets under $20 multiple times.
Dollar Stores: Great for supplementary supplies like cups, sponges, and storage containers. Sometimes they have surprisingly decent tempera paint, though I stick to name brands for the actual paint.
Michael’s and Joann: Never pay full price here. Sign up for emails, and use those 40-50% off coupons religiously. This is where I splurge on slightly nicer items when they’re on sale.
Eco-Friendly Options That Won’t Break Your Budget
We’ve all felt that pang of guilt looking at plastic paint bottles. The good news? Eco-friendly cheap craft paints suitable for kids do exist, and they’re getting more affordable.
Many brands now use recyclable packaging, and some, like Ooly, prioritize safer, more sustainable materials. While they might cost a dollar or two more, they often last longer because the quality is better—so it evens out.
My approach: Buy the basics in regular packaging, but splurge on eco-friendly options for the colors we use most. It’s a compromise that works for our budget and values.
Real Talk: What You Can Skip
Not everything marketed for kids’ crafts is actually necessary. Here’s what I’ve learned to avoid:
- Paint pens for toddlers: Too easy to chew on, caps get lost immediately, and they dry out fast.
- Scented paints: Fun in theory, but they distract kids from actually painting, and the smell can be overwhelming.
- Neon sets: They look cool, but the colors are hard to work with and don’t mix well.
- Tiny paint pot sets: Those 12-pack sets with thumbnail-sized pots? They’re gone in one session and create so much waste.
Cleaning Up: Making It Actually Easy
The best cheap kids’ craft paints in the world won’t matter if cleanup is a nightmare. Here’s my system:
- During Painting: Keep a damp cloth nearby for immediate spill wipes
- Hands: Wet wipes work, but honestly, a quick trip to the sink with soap beats everything
- Brushes: Rinse immediately after use—dried paint is your enemy
- Spills: Blot, don’t rub. Then use warm soapy water. For dried spills, a bit of rubbing alcohol on a cloth works wonders
- Clothes: Pre-treat with dish soap before washing
Teaching Kids to Respect Their Supplies
This might sound counterintuitive when we’re talking about cheap supplies, but teaching kids to clean brushes properly and put lids back on paint extends the life of everything. My six-year-old now takes pride in “being in charge” of cleaning up, and our supplies last twice as long.
It’s not about being precious with materials—it’s about teaching responsibility while keeping costs down.
Building Your Starter Kit: What to Buy First
If you’re just starting out and feeling overwhelmed, here’s my suggested kids beginner paint supplies cheap shopping list:
- One set of washable tempera paints (6-10 colors)
- Basic brush set (3-5 brushes)
- Watercolor palette (8+ colors)
- Finger paints (if you have young kids)
- Paper (look for multipacks at office supply stores)
- Plastic paint palette or muffin tin
- Old clothes for smocks
Total investment? Around $30-$40, and you’re set for months of creative fun.
When to Upgrade Your Supplies
As kids develop their skills, you’ll notice them getting frustrated with basic supplies. Signs it’s time to level up:
- They’re mixing colors intentionally and want more control
- They’re working on longer-term projects
- They ask for specific colors or effects
- They’re taking art classes and need specific materials
For my daughter’s ninth birthday, we invested in a small set of acrylic paints (Liquitex Basics Acrylic Paint Set, 18 Colors) because she was ready for canvas work. But we still keep the washable tempera around for quick projects and her younger brother.
Making It Fun: Creative Project Ideas
Having great supplies is just the start. Here are quick project ideas that maximize your investment:
- Nature prints: Use leaves, flowers, or vegetables as stamps with tempera paint
- Rock painting: Transform boring rocks into garden decorations
- Handprint art: Create seasonal decorations or gifts
- Color mixing experiments: Teach color theory while they play
- Paint chip matching: Use paint samples from hardware stores (free!) as color references
The Bottom Line: Smart Spending for Creative Kids
Here’s what I wish someone had told me when I first ventured into kids’ craft supplies: You don’t need everything, and expensive doesn’t mean better—especially for kids who are still learning and exploring.
The sweet spot is finding affordable kids craft paints that are safe, washable, and vibrant enough to keep kids engaged. Brands like Crayola, Prang, and Darice have mastered this balance, and honestly, they’re what professional educators use in classrooms for a reason.
My craft supply budget has dropped from around $50 monthly to maybe $15, and my kids are painting more because I’m not stressed about waste. That’s the real win.
Start simple, buy what you’ll actually use, and remember that the best craft supply is the one that gets your kid creating. Whether that’s a $3 pack of watercolors or a slightly nicer tempera set, if it sparks joy and creativity, it’s worth every penny.
Now go grab those paints and make some messy, beautiful memories. The dishes can wait.