PaintingProGuide is reader-supported. When you buy through links on this page we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Finger painting is the purest kind of painting: no brush between the child and the color, just hands, paper and a lot of squishing. It builds fine motor skills, teaches color mixing in the most direct way possible, and keeps toddlers absorbed far longer than most activities. Because the paint goes straight onto skin, though, choosing it deserves a little more care than choosing crayons.
The best finger paints for kids are thick and creamy so they spread without running, wash easily from hands and clothes, carry clear safety labeling and come in containers small hands cannot empty in one squeeze. We compared six finger paints, from Crayola’s 8 oz classroom bottles to cosmetic-grade colorings in recycled pots, and cover age guidance, the best paper, sensory activities and cleanup.
Quick answer: For most families, Crayola Washable Finger Paints (6 x 8 oz) are the dependable choice: big EZ Squeeze bottles with flip-top caps and a smooth, creamy texture. For the youngest painters, Honeysticks finger paint uses cosmetic-grade colorings in a thick formula. If you want lots of colors in toddler-friendly bottles, choose the Nicpro 12-color set for ages 1-3.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Crayola Washable Finger Paints, 6 x 8 oz — Best overall finger paint for kids
- Honeysticks Non-Toxic Finger Paint, 6 Colors — Best for babies and first painters
- Nicpro 12-Color Washable Finger Paint for Toddlers — Best color variety for ages 1-3
- Shuttle Art Washable Finger Paint, 15 Colors — Best large palette
- ABEIER Washable Finger Paint, 12 Colors — Best creamy texture for sensory play
- EXTRIC Finger Paint for Toddlers, 12 x 2 oz — Best budget toddler set
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Key Strength | Price Tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crayola Finger Paints | Everyday and classroom | 6 colors x 8 oz | EZ Squeeze bottles, flip tops | $$ |
| Honeysticks | Babies, first painters | 6 pots, about 2 oz each | Cosmetic-grade colorings, recycled pots | $$ |
| Nicpro 12 | Ages 1-3 | 12 x 2 oz flip-top bottles | ASTM D4236, color wheel | $ |
| Shuttle Art 15 | Color variety | 15 x 2 oz | ASTM D4236 and EN71-3 | $$ |
| ABEIER 12 | Sensory play | 12 colors, silky cream | Skin contact, ASTM D4236 | $ |
| EXTRIC 12 | Budget | 12 x 2 oz tubes | ASTM D4236, toddler listing | $ |
How We Chose
We did not finger paint with these products. Picks are based on Amazon listing details and specifications checked in October 2026, how well each paint’s texture, washability, safety labeling, age guidance and container suit children, and how widely each product is reviewed by Amazon buyers. A Cra-Z-Art classic paint set also appeared; it is a general poster paint rather than a finger paint, so we focused on dedicated finger paints.
- Texture: thick, smooth and creamy for spreading with fingers.
- Washability: lifts from skin and clothing with soap and water.
- Safety labeling: ASTM D4236, EN71 or cosmetic-grade claims.
- Age guidance: clearly stated suitability for toddlers.
- Containers: flip tops, squeeze bottles or pots that limit spills.
Finger Paint vs Regular Kids’ Paint
Finger paint is formulated to be thicker and smoother than poster paint so it glides under fingers and stays where a child pushes it. It is usually designed specifically for skin contact and easy washing. Regular washable tempera can be finger painted with, but it is often thinner and may not feel as pleasant. For babies and toddlers, a dedicated finger paint is the better choice.
Best Finger Paints for Kids Reviewed
1. Crayola Washable Finger Paints, 6 Colors x 8 oz — Best for everyday finger painting
Crayola’s finger paint set includes six 8 oz bottles in blue, yellow, orange, green, violet and red, 48 fluid ounces in total. The listing says each paint washes from skin and washable clothing, and describes a smooth, creamy texture that is easy for little hands to spread and mix.
EZ Squeeze bottles with flip-top caps help adults dispense small amounts, and 8 oz bottles last far longer than the 2 oz bottles in many kits. The matte finish looks bright on paper.
Best suited for: Families who finger paint often, and preschool and daycare classrooms.
Key features:
- 6 colors x 8 oz
- Washable from skin and washable clothing
- EZ Squeeze bottles with flip-top caps
- Smooth, creamy texture
- Matte finish
Pros:
- Large bottles
- Trusted washable formula
- Easy to dispense
Cons and limitations:
- Only 6 colors
- No white or black for mixing tints and shades
- Higher upfront cost than small kits
Buying consideration: Dispense a spoonful onto the paper rather than a puddle; it spreads further than you expect.
2. Honeysticks Non-Toxic Finger Paint, 6 Colors — Best for babies and first painters
Honeysticks makes its finger paint with water-based, non-toxic ingredients and cosmetic-grade colorings, according to the listing. The set includes 6 pots of about 2 oz each in yellow, red, blue, purple, orange and green, with a thick, creamy texture for better control by little fingers and fewer spills.
The listing positions it for first birthdays and beyond and describes easy washing from hands and feet. The honeypot containers are made from reclaimed curbside plastic, and the packaging is from an FSC-certified supplier.
Best suited for: Parents of babies and young toddlers who want an ingredient-conscious first paint.
Key features:
- 6 pots, about 2 oz each
- Cosmetic-grade colorings
- Thick, creamy texture
- Washable from skin
- Recycled plastic pots, FSC packaging
Pros:
- Formulated with very young children in mind
- Thick paint means fewer spills
- Sustainable packaging
Cons and limitations:
- Highest price tier per ounce here
- Only 6 colors
- Open pots can dry if left uncovered
Buying consideration: Spoon paint onto a tray instead of letting babies dip into the pots; it keeps the paint clean and lasting.
3. Nicpro 12-Color Washable Finger Paint for Toddlers 1-3 — Best for color variety for toddlers
Nicpro’s set includes 12 colors in 2 oz (60 ml) bottles with flip-top caps and a simple color wheel. The listing describes a water-based, skin-safe formula that meets ASTM D4236, a thick, smooth texture that spreads with fingers, brushes or sponges, and washability from skin, clothes and plastic.
It also notes that the paint may stain porous materials like untreated fabric or wood, a useful reminder to protect wooden tables.
Best suited for: Toddlers 1 to 3 and preschoolers who enjoy many colors.
Key features:
- 12 colors x 2 oz
- Flip-top caps
- ASTM D4236
- Color wheel included
- Washable
Pros:
- Many colors
- Toddler age guidance
- Flip tops limit spills
Cons and limitations:
- May stain porous surfaces
- Small bottles
- More colors can mean more mixing to brown
Buying consideration: Offer three colors per session and rotate; it keeps colors bright and the activity fresh.
4. Shuttle Art Washable Finger Paint, 15 Colors — Best for a large palette
Shuttle Art’s set offers 15 washable finger paint colors in 2 oz bottles. The listing describes a water-based paint that washes from skin and surfaces like desks, glass and fabrics, conforming to ASTM D4236 and EN71-3, non-toxic and acid-free.
Its rich, creamy texture also works for sponge and poster painting, so the set stays useful as children start using tools.
Best suited for: Kids who love color and families who want a set that grows into tool painting.
Key features:
- 15 colors x 2 oz
- Water-based, washable
- ASTM D4236 and EN71-3
- Works with fingers, sponges and brushes
Pros:
- Largest palette here
- Dual safety standards listed
- Versatile
Cons and limitations:
- Small bottles
- Age guidance not stated in excerpt
- More bottles to store
Buying consideration: Group bottles by warm and cool colors to teach color families as kids paint.
5. ABEIER Washable Finger Paint for Toddlers, 12 Colors — Best for sensory play
ABEIER’s paint has a thick, silky cream texture and 12 colors designed for toddlers 1 to 3. The listing says it conforms to ASTM D4236, can be in direct contact with skin, and washes off skin, fabrics and plastics. It includes a caution not to swallow and a choking warning for small parts.
Its texture makes it a good sensory paint: kids can feel it, swirl it and print with hands and feet.
Best suited for: Sensory play and toddler art time.
Key features:
- 12 colors
- Silky cream texture
- Ages 1-3
- ASTM D4236
- Washable
Pros:
- Pleasant texture
- Toddler guidance
- Clear cautions
Cons and limitations:
- Small containers
- Choking caution
- Matte finish only
Buying consideration: Try finger painting on a large sheet taped to the high chair tray for an easy, contained session.
6. EXTRIC Finger Paint for Toddlers 1-3, 12 x 2 oz — Best for a budget toddler set
EXTRIC’s set includes 12 colors in 2 oz tubes. The listing describes baby-safe, non-toxic paint conforming to ASTM D4236, gentle on skin, and washable from skin, clothing and furniture. It is promoted for handprints and sensory play.
It is the lowest-cost toddler set here and a good choice for families who want many colors without a big spend.
Best suited for: Budget-conscious families with toddlers and preschoolers.
Key features:
- 12 colors x 2 oz
- ASTM D4236
- Washable
- Toddler-focused listing
- Matte finish
Pros:
- Low price
- Many colors
- Handprint friendly
Cons and limitations:
- Tubes are harder for kids to dispense themselves
- Small volume per color
- Lesser-known brand
Buying consideration: Squeeze paint into an ice cube tray for a simple, stable palette.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Finger Paints for Kids
Check age guidance
Some finger paints are labeled for toddlers 1 to 3, others for 3 and up. Follow the label and supervise closely.
Texture matters
Thick, creamy paint spreads smoothly and stays on the paper. Thin paint runs and splashes.
Washability
Choose washable formulas and expect porous surfaces like wood and untreated fabric to stain more easily.
Safety labeling
ASTM D4236, EN71 or cosmetic-grade claims give useful reassurance.
Container type
Flip-top bottles help adults portion paint. Pots work for older kids but can be tipped or dried out.
Volume
8 oz bottles suit frequent use; 2 oz bottles suit variety and occasional sessions.
Setting Up a Finger Painting Session
- Choose a spot that is easy to clean, such as a high chair, a kitchen table with a vinyl cloth, or outdoors.
- Dress your child in a smock or just a diaper for the youngest painters.
- Tape down heavy paper; finger paint paper or glossy cardstock works best.
- Offer two or three colors on a tray or directly on the paper.
- Join in; modeling swirls, dots and handprints helps kids explore.
- Keep a damp cloth and a bucket of warm water nearby.
- Dry paintings flat and wipe hands before lifting your child down.
Best Paper for Finger Paint
Finger paint is wet and heavy. Dedicated finger paint paper has a glossy coating so paint glides and the paper does not pill. Freezer paper (shiny side up), glossy cardstock and heavy construction paper also work. Thin printer paper tears.
What Finger Painting Looks Like at Each Age
12 to 18 months
Expect patting, smearing and tasting attempts more than pictures. Short sessions of five to ten minutes, one or two colors, and a high chair tray are ideal. Paint-in-a-bag is a great alternative for babies who put everything in their mouths.
18 months to 3 years
Toddlers start making deliberate marks: dots, lines and swirls. They enjoy watching colors mix and pressing handprints. Offer three colors and big paper taped to the table.
3 to 5 years
Preschoolers begin to make recognizable shapes and scenes with their fingers, combine fingerprints into animals and flowers, and talk about what they are painting. Finger paint can now be combined with sponges and stamps.
5 years and up
Older children often enjoy finger painting as a relaxing, expressive break from brushes. They can blend sunsets with their fingertips, make fingerprint characters with markers added afterward, and experiment with texture. At this age, finger painting pairs well with simple color theory lessons, such as mixing secondary colors or making tints by adding white, which turns a messy afternoon into a genuine learning activity. Larger sets with 12 to 15 colors suit this age best, since kids enjoy choosing exactly the shade they want for each part of a picture.
Five-Minute Cleanup Routine
- Wipe hands with a damp cloth before your child leaves the painting area.
- Wash hands and arms with warm water and mild soap.
- Rinse any paint on clothing under cold water immediately.
- Wipe the table or tray while paint is still wet.
- Close all lids and stand bottles upright to prevent drying.
Sensory and Learning Activities
- Color mixing: put a dot of blue and yellow on the paper and let your child discover green.
- Mess-free bag painting: seal paint inside a zip bag taped to a table for babies.
- Texture tray: add a little salt or sand to paint for a new feel (older toddlers, supervised).
- Handprint animals: turn prints into fish, birds and lions.
- Shape tracing: draw shapes in the paint with one finger.
Fingerprints are perfect spots in our easy ladybug painting for kids, and older kids can use finger painting to fill in a dinosaur painting. For outdoor fun, try painted rock critters with brushes once fingers are clean.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Giving full bottles: toddlers will empty them; portion paint yourself.
- Using thin paper: it tears under wet paint.
- Too many colors at once: everything turns brown quickly.
- Leaving babies unsupervised: paint can end up in mouths.
- Painting near porous surfaces: protect wood and fabric.
- Letting paint dry on clothes: rinse quickly in cold water.
FAQs
What age can kids start finger painting?
Many families start around 12 to 18 months with paints labeled for toddlers and close supervision. Some products are labeled 3 and up, so check each label.
Is finger paint safe if a toddler puts it in their mouth?
Finger paints are designed to be non-toxic but are not food. Supervise closely and wipe hands and mouths promptly.
How do I get finger paint out of clothes?
Rinse with cold water as soon as possible, pretreat with detergent, then wash. Avoid the dryer until the stain is gone.
What paper is best for finger painting?
Glossy finger paint paper, freezer paper or heavy cardstock. These hold wet paint without tearing.
Can I make homemade finger paint?
Many parents make simple cooked flour or cornstarch paints with food coloring. Store-bought finger paint is more consistent and brighter.
How do I make finger painting less messy?
Use a high chair or a tray, limit colors, use a smock, and try paint-in-a-bag for the youngest kids.
Final Recommendation
Crayola’s 8 oz washable finger paints are the best everyday choice for most families. For babies and first-time painters, Honeysticks offers cosmetic-grade colorings in a thick formula. Choose Nicpro for 12 toddler-friendly colors, Shuttle Art for the largest palette, ABEIER for a silky sensory texture, and EXTRIC for a budget set with plenty of color.
One Comment