Do it Yourself Bathtub Finger Paints

by Traci Anderson | More from this Blogger

31 May 2007 11:31 AM

I discovered an exciting product the other day. I gave my two preschoolers some bathtub finger paints and they played contently in the bathtub for over an hour. When they got out, they smelled yummy...(like bananas, blueberries and strawberries).

Even better, I was able to sit nearby and give myself a much needed pedicure while catching up on the magazines I never thought I would catch up on. Who would have thought that a $3.99 splurge would be so blissful. That being said, while I would love to enjoy a peaceful bath-time every evening, they used an entire tube of paint and while the peace and quiet might be worth the $100+ per month tub-paint bill, I am not sure we can afford it.

I decided that it would be more affordable to create some "do it yourself" bathtub finger paints. I was shocked at how easy it was to make them. You simply stir together 1/3rd cup of clear (and mild) liquid dish soap and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Add a few drops of food coloring and "wa-la" the kids can smear paint on their bodies and bathtub to their hearts content. (And you won't have a mess to clean up afterward).

You may want to whip up a few additional batches of the bathtub finger paints for outdoor play as well. The paints will work great in backyard kiddie pools too. Just be careful not to get the paint onto porous surfaces (like decks and siding) as it may be more difficult to wash off.

One of the great features of the store-bought paints were the wonderful scents. I added a few drops of vanilla to one batch and some banana extract to another. You could also add a few drops of your favorite essential oils like lavender, mandarin, or orange peel.

Related Reading: Frugal Kids: Make Your Own Playdough Make Your Own Toothpaste

Learn more about Traci Anderson

Traci is a work-at-home-mom (WAHM) from beautiful Big Sky Country (Montana). She spends most of her time trying to keep up with two extremely energetic (but hysterical) Irish twins.

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