Looking for a fun and refreshing art activity to keep your kids engaged on a warm day? Ice Cube Painting is a perfect mix of art and sensory play that little ones will absolutely love!
With just a few basic supplies, kids can explore colors, patterns, and textures—while enjoying the cool sensation of painting with frozen colors. It’s messy, creative, and educational all at once!
What You Need:
- Ice cube tray
- Water
- Washable liquid paints or food coloring
- Popsicle sticks or toothpicks
- White paper (watercolor paper works best)
- Freezer
- Mixing bowl or cup (for color prep)
How to Make Ice Cube Paints:
Step 1: Mix the Colors
In small cups, mix water with a few drops of food coloring or washable paint. You can make a rainbow of colors or just a few favorites.
Step 2: Pour into Ice Cube Tray
Carefully pour the colored water into the compartments of an ice cube tray.
Step 3: Add Handles
Place a popsicle stick or toothpick in each compartment. This will act as a handle once frozen.
Step 4: Freeze
Put the tray in the freezer for a few hours or overnight until completely frozen.
Time to Paint!
- Set up a painting area with a large sheet of paper and towels underneath to catch the drips.
- Pop the colorful ice cubes out of the tray and let your child grab a cube by the stick.
- As the ice begins to melt, it releases the color, creating beautiful, flowing art!
Why Kids Love Ice Cube Painting:
- It’s sensory-rich: cold, wet, and colorful!
- It turns ordinary painting into an exciting science experiment.
- It’s perfect for hot days when you want to cool off while crafting.
- It encourages exploration of color blending and melting.
Clean-Up Made Easy:
Since you’re using washable paints or food coloring, a quick rinse or wipe is all it takes to clean up. Just be sure to do the activity on a surface that can handle a little water.
Perfect For:
- Summer craft time
- Backyard art fun
- Birthday party activities
- Art + science experiments
- Preschool and homeschool lessons
So chill out and create some cool art—literally! Ice cube painting is a fun, unique way for kids to explore colors and creativity while beating the heat.
