Looking for a fun way to bring favorite picture books to life? These book art activities for kids combine storytelling with simple art projects. Perfect for the classroom, homeschool, or library, each project pairs a well-loved children’s book with an engaging art activity.
Why Book-Inspired Art?
Pairing books and art offers kids a richer learning experience.
- Encourages a love of reading while exploring creativity.
- Helps kids make personal connections to characters and themes.
- Supports fine motor skills, observation, and storytelling.
- Works for preschool through elementary ages with simple supplies.
You can try a free printable project today and explore our complete Book Art Pack with 10+ hands-on ideas ready to go.
Free Sample: Harold and the Purple Crayon Art
One of our favorite activities is inspired by the classic Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson.
Supplies Needed
- Copy of Harold and the Purple Crayon
- Purple crayons or markers
- White paper
Instructions
- Read the book with your students.
- Provide each child with a purple crayon and paper.
- Encourage them to create their own adventure paths, just like Harold.
- Invite kids to share their stories aloud with the group.
🎨 This activity sparks imagination and storytelling while keeping supplies simple and classroom-friendly.
Download the free Harold and the Purple Crayon activity here.
More Book Art Activities
Inside the Book Art Pack, you’ll find over 10 printable projects paired with classic children’s books. Book Theme Art Download:
- Beautiful Oops by Barney Saltzberg – Rip-and-Repair Collage
- The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds – Playdough Dot Creations
- Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner – Chalk Pastel Snow Scenes
- Sky Color by Peter H. Reynolds – Watercolor Skies
- Press Here by Hervé Tullet – Dot Printmaking with Stickers and Paint
- Mouse Paint by Ellen Stoll Walsh – Color Mixing Collages
- Mix It Up by Hervé Tullet – Sensory Color Experiments
- Lines That Wiggle by Candace Whitman – Yarn and Ribbon Line Designs
- Ish by Peter H. Reynolds – Embrace Imperfect “Ish” Drawings
- Henri’s Scissors by Jeanette Winter – Cut-Paper Collage Inspired by Matisse
Each activity includes:
- Supply list
- Step-by-step instructions
- Discussion prompts
- Printable templates (when needed)
How to Use These Activities
These art projects are flexible and easy to adapt:
- Classroom → Add to your literacy centers, sub plans, or art lessons.
- Library Programs → Perfect for storytime follow-ups.
- Homeschool → Connect books and creativity for fun learning days.
- Clubs & Camps → Quick, low-prep projects kids of all ages can enjoy.
Grab the Complete Book Art Pack
👉 Ready for more? Download the Book Art Activities Pack and get instant access to 10+ creative projects. Each activity is designed for preschoolers through early elementary students, using easy-to-find materials and clear, printable instructions.
Related Art Resources
Looking for even more ways to inspire creativity?
- Make an Art Cart for Kids
- Printable Art Activities for Kids
- Famous Artist Projects
- Process Art Projects
- Join the Little Bins Club for Monthly Plans
