Making Bathtub Finger Paints

Category Toys

Kids love to play in the tub. Homemade finger paints are a perfect activity for the tub. This is a guide about making bathtub finger paints.

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Bathtub Finger Paints

By Becky Miles [100 Posts, 158 Comments]3 found this helpful

November 30, 2015

This is a very inexpensive way to let your kids have some extra fun in the bath. I found the recipe over 10 years ago and I make it all the time for my kids. They love it. This also makes a nice gift for friends with kids. Before using, test in an inconspicuous spot in the tub or shower to make sure that these won't stain. I've never had a problem, but you should test it first to be on the safe side.

Total Time: about 20 minutes

Yield: I filled 8 (4oz) baby food containers.

Source: I think this was from Family Fun magazine.

Supplies:

1 envelope unflavored gelatin
1/4 cup hot water
1/2 cup cornstarch
3 Tbsp sugar
1 3/4 cup cold water
1/4 cup mild, liquid dishwashing soap (I used Ivory)
food coloring
sauce pan
whisk
bowl
containers to store the paints in
measuring cups

Steps:

Dissolve 1 envelope of gelatin into 1/4 cup hot water. Let mixture sit for 10 minutes.

About 5 minutes later, I start this next step. Combine 1/2 cup cornstarch, 3 TBS sugar and 1 3/4 cups cold water in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium high heat, stirring until thick. (Once it thickens, it happens fast!)

Reduce heat to low. Add gelatin mixture and 1/4 cup mild, dishwashing soap. Whisk mixture til smooth. Let cool.

Divide mixture into small containers. Add a drop or two of food coloring. Don't get too crazy with it. A little goes a long way. Stir mixture til the color is incorporated.