Making Watercolor Paints from Scratch
By Kayla • April 3, 2018
With school budget cuts and the uncertain economy, it's prudent to find ways to save money in the classroom. Making your own art supplies is a great way to do this. Jean, mother of two and creator of The Artful Parent blog, has provided a great recipe for making watercolor paints from scratch.
Watercolor Paint Recipe
- 3 teaspoons light corn syrup
- 6 tablespoons cornstarch
- 6 tablespoons baking soda
- 6 tablespoons white vinegar
Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. When it stops fizzing and foaming, divide the base mixture into several shallow containers and use food coloring to make all the colors of the rainbow.
Some Observations
- If you have a small class, it can be fun to have your students help you prepare the mixture. They'll hone fine motor skills as they fill measuring tools, learn to measure, and practice following directions. In this way, making paint can be just as fun as using it.
- This mixture paints just like watercolors, but dries a bit powdery. As Jean says, this isn't a bad thing, just different!
Use this paint recipe to get started with some home made fun!
About the Author
Kayla Johnson
Disclaimer: The content on this page is for informational purposes only and reflects the author's personal experiences and/or opinions. The author is not a financial advisor, medical professional, or licensed expert in any regulated field. Nothing on this page should be interpreted as financial, medical, or professional advice. This content is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions related to your finances, health, or other personal matters. The information provided here is shared in good faith, but individual circumstances vary, and what works for some people may not work for you. Results are not typical, implied, or guaranteed. While we strive for accuracy, information may become outdated or change over time. Statements made by guest authors reflect their own opinions and should not be interpreted as endorsements by SupplyMe.
Some of the links on this page may be affiliate or referral links, which means we may earn a commission or bonus if you use them. There’s no extra cost to you — and it’s a great way to support the site if you find the content helpful.