Tips for Setting Up a Fun and Functional Art Space for Kids
Maybe you’ve stepped on paint one too many times or discovered markers without their caps. Perhaps you’re constantly mediating sibling disputes because the youngest is “borrowing” art supplies from the oldest and not putting them back.
Whatever the reason, you know it’s time to create a dedicated art space for your little one at home. Fortunately, Jany Lee from Savvy For Life has some fantastic ideas for setting up a fun and functional art space for young children.
Tips for Setting Up a Fun and Functional Art Space for Kids
ArtSpace Top Needs
- Durable Table: Choose a table that is stable and easy to clean.
- Storage for Creative Materials: You’ll need containers for markers, crayons, chalk, washable paints, glue, tape, stamp pads, stamps, twine, ribbons, and scissors.
- Display Space: Have a place to showcase artwork and creations.
- Task Lighting: Good lighting, such as lamps, is essential for detailed tasks.
ArtSpace Color Schemes
- Red: Represents courage, strength, and excitement.
- Yellow: Symbolizes creativity, friendliness, optimism, and confidence.
- Blue: Calms the mind, aids concentration, and is perfect for creative exploration.
- Purple: Enhances imagination and inspires creativity.
- Green: Associated with balance, creative thinking, inventiveness, and innovation.
Storing Supplies
Lee’s go-to store for organizing tools is IKEA. Her top pick for bookcases is the IKEA KALLAX, which can be secured to the wall and customized with different boxes. Here are some other storage options:
- Mason Jars: Affordable and perfect for holding materials.
- Mini Metal Buckets: Great for small items.
- Flowerpots: Add a touch of greenery while storing supplies.
- Woven Baskets: Place them on the floor or under an easel for easy access.
- Storage Organizer Caddy Tote: Ideal for carrying supplies around.
- Plastic Storage Baskets: Durable and easy to clean.
- Closed Boxes: Stackable and great for hiding clutter. Labeling them helps you keep track of contents.
Displaying Art
- Cork Bulletin Board: Jany loves the IKEA HEAT trivet and has a helpful video on this simple IKEA hack.
- Wire and Curtain Hooks: Combine the IKEA DIGNITET wire with IKEA RIKTIG curtain hooks to hang art.
- Floating Shelves: Perfect for displaying framed pieces.
- Magnetic Wall Board: Use a giant magnet board to display art and travel magnets.
ArtSpace Supplies Ideas
- Durable Table: Consider a table with built-in storage.
- Sidewalk Chalk
- Washable Markers
- Washable Finger Paints
- Crayons
- Sketch Pads
- Tabletop Easel Paper Roll
- Pencil Sharpener
- Drawing Pencils
- Paintbrush Set
- Washable Paint
- Sponge Brushes
- Paint Cups or Mason Jars
- Modeling Clay
- Easel
- Splat Mats
Be cautious about offering young children materials that could be choking hazards.
Be cautious about giving young children materials that could be choking hazards.
No matter what you choose, Lee emphasizes that the art space should provide plenty of opportunities for your child to explore their creativity. For more ideas on fostering creativity, check out our post on Three Activities to Help Your Child Think Like an Artist.
There will still be messes, but they’ll be worth it when you look through your cherished collection of masterpieces.
