Have some cool summer fun with this colorful ice cube painting activity! Kiddos of all ages will enjoy this neat process art using ice cubes! Find out how to make paint for ice painting below for an easy-to-set-up art project for kids!
Painting With Ice
Painting with ice is a must-try art project for kids. It works as well for toddlers as it does with teens, so you can include the whole family in the fun. Ice cube painting is also budget-friendly and perfect for large groups and classroom projects!
Once they get going, ice paints glide smoothly over the paper like watercolors—perfect for a hot day!
We will show you how to make colorful ice paints, which are easy to use outside and just as easy to clean up. You can even lay a plastic shower curtain underneath the project to clean it up quickly. Art is all about getting a little messy anyway!
💡Check out more fun outdoor art activities!
FREE Printable Outdoor Art Activities Guide
Need a plan to get started? Grab this free outdoor art project guide and use the clickable links (once downloaded) to help set up your next outdoor art project.
Ice Painting
Make sure to explore color mixing, too, with your ice paints!
Supplies:
- Ice tray
- Water
- Food coloring – primary colors (red, yellow, blue)
- Large tray
- 11 in. X 14 in. white Posterboard
- Plastic Spoon
- Craft sticks (optional to freeze one into each cube as a handle)
💡NOTE: Food coloring can stain! Dress in your best artist smock and be prepared for a bit of mess. (Thrift store button-down shirts work well!) You can also mix up liquid watercolors!
Make Ice Cube Art Instructions:
STEP 1: First, make the ice block paint. Pour water into the ice cube tray. Do not overfill, or colors may run into other sections. Then, add 1-2 drops of food coloring to each section. Place the ice tray in the freezer and freeze the ice completely.
STEP 2: Once the paint is ready, place the poster board on a large tray and empty the ice cubes onto it.
STEP 3: Use a spoon to spread the ice around. The ice will start to melt and leave colors on the poster board.
Color the whole poster with your ice paints until no white space is left.
STEP 4. When finished, pour the melted ice water into the sink or large container if indoors.
STEP 5. Hang your ice cube art up to dry.
Helpful Art Resources To Get You Started
Here are a few resources to help you introduce art more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.
More Fun Summer Art
Check out over 20 outdoor art activities to do with kids this summer! Including…
Process Art Project Pack
Are you ready to unlock your kid’s creativity and imagination with hassle-free, budget-friendly fun? Look no further than our Process Art Pack, curated with 12 exciting activities suitable for kids of all ages!
Say goodbye to complicated setups and expensive supplies – our pack utilizes common art materials, making it convenient and accessible for busy parents and educators.
🌈 Dive into Endless Creativity: From vibrant bubble painting to mesmerizing marble rolling, our pack offers diverse activities celebrating the artistic process. Watch your kids explore colors, textures, and shapes while having a blast!
👩🎨 Fun for Every Age: Whether you have a curious toddler or a budding artist, our activities are designed to engage children of various ages and developmental stages. With easy-to-follow instructions and adaptable techniques, every family member can join the fun. Or use in the classroom to supplement your art lesson plan.
💰 Budget-Friendly and Easy Setup: There is no need to break the bank or spend hours gathering supplies—our Process Art Pack uses everyday items found in your home or local craft store. Grab some paper, paint, and a few household items, and you’re ready to unleash your child’s creativity!
🎉 Create Lasting Memories: Bond with your little ones as you embark on artistic adventures together. Our Process Art Pack isn’t just about making masterpieces – it’s about cherishing the joy of exploration and discovery, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
