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Kids love anything that shines, and a pot of gold or silver paint can turn a cardboard crown or a paper rocket into the best thing they made all week. The tricky part for parents and teachers is that “metallic paint” covers very different products: washable tempera with a shimmer, glitter paint with suspended flakes, solid paint sticks, and permanent metallic acrylic. The best metallic paints for kids are the ones matched to the child’s age and the cleanup you can tolerate.
We compared six options on Amazon, grouped by who they suit: washable metallic tempera for preschool and classrooms, twist-up paint sticks for toddlers and travel, glitter paint for extra sparkle, and a bulk metallic acrylic set for older kids doing permanent projects.
Quick answer: For most families and classrooms, Colorations Metallic Simply Washable Tempera is the top pick: six 8 oz bottles, AP-certified non-toxic, paraben-free and free of common allergens like latex, gluten and nuts. For little hands and car-trip crafts, the DAWNIGO 24-pack of metallic tempera paint sticks avoids brushes and water entirely. For older kids painting rocks or wood that should stay painted, the Shuttle Art 8-color metallic acrylic set offers 250 ml bottles of permanent shimmer.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Colorations Metallic Simply Washable Tempera (6 x 8 oz) — Best overall for home and classroom
- Crayola Washable Metallic Paint Set (6 x 2 oz) — Best small starter set
- Positive Art Metallic Washable Tempera (6 x 4 oz) — Best for posters and holiday crafts
- DAWNIGO Metallic Tempera Paint Sticks (24 pack) — Best mess-free option for toddlers
- Cra-Z-Art Washable Glitter Paint (8 x 4 oz) — Best for maximum sparkle
- Shuttle Art 8-Color Metallic Acrylic (250 ml each) — Best for older kids and permanent projects
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Key Strength | Price Tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorations Metallic Tempera | Classrooms, preschool | 6 x 8 oz; washable | Allergen-free formula, AP seal | $$ |
| Crayola Washable Metallic | Trying metallics at home | 6 x 2 oz; washable | Familiar, easy washability | $ |
| Positive Art Metallic Tempera | Posters and lettering | 6 x 4 oz flip-tops; washable | Gold, silver and bronze included | $$ |
| DAWNIGO Paint Sticks | Toddlers and travel | 24 sticks, 12 metallic colors | Dries in about 90 seconds per listing | $ |
| Cra-Z-Art Glitter Paint | Sparkly crafts | 8 x 4 oz; washable | Glitter visible from every angle | $ |
| Shuttle Art Metallic Acrylic | Ages 8+ with supervision | 8 x 250 ml; gloss acrylic | Permanent metallic finish | $$ |
How We Chose
Our picks are based on Amazon listing details and specifications checked in October 2026, how well each product’s format, washability and safety labeling suit children of different ages, and how widely each product is reviewed by Amazon buyers. We have not used these paints with children ourselves. Safety notes come from the listings; general guidance reflects common classroom practice.
- Safety labeling — ASTM D4236 conformance, AP certification or stated non-toxic formulas.
- Washability — whether the listing claims removal from skin and washable fabrics.
- Format by age — sticks for toddlers, tempera for preschool and school age, acrylic for older kids.
- Volume — classrooms go through paint quickly, so ounces per color matter.
- Real metallic effect — named gold, silver and bronze shades rank higher for craft use.
Metallic, Glitter or Pearl: What Kids Actually Get
Metallic paints contain mica or similar reflective particles that give a smooth, foil-like sheen. Glitter paints suspend visible flakes in a clear or colored base, so they sparkle but look bumpy. Pearl or shimmer paints sit between the two with a soft glow. Washable versions trade some shine for easy cleanup, while metallic acrylic gives the strongest, most permanent effect.
If you want to understand the difference in more depth, our explainers on metallic acrylic paint vs regular acrylic paint and the difference between acrylic and metallic paint cover how the pigments work and when each is worth buying.
Best Metallic Paints for Kids Reviewed
1. Colorations Metallic Simply Washable Tempera Paint — Best for homes, preschools and classrooms
Colorations is a long-standing classroom brand, and this metallic version comes in six 8 oz bottles: Metallic Blue, Green, Magenta, Purple, Gold and Silver. The listing notes the AP seal for safety and non-toxicity, ASTM D4236 conformance and a paraben-free formula.
The allergen information is unusually detailed. According to the listing, the paint does not include latex, dairy, casein, egg, gluten, peanut, tree nuts or soy, which matters in group settings where some children have allergies. It is described as opaque, non-chipping and non-cracking on paper, canvas, wood, cardboard and papier-mâché.
Best suited for: Teachers, daycare providers and parents who want a big, washable metallic set with detailed safety information.
Key features:
- Six metallic colors in 8 oz bottles
- AP-certified non-toxic; ASTM D4236
- Paraben-free; free of common allergens per the listing
- Indoor and outdoor use with brushes, rollers or sponges
Pros:
- Largest washable bottles in this guide
- Clear allergen labeling
- Opaque metallic coverage on many surfaces
Cons and limitations:
- Washable tempera is not permanent outdoors
- Shine is softer than metallic acrylic
- Mid price tier
Buying consideration: Washable paint is easiest to clean when fresh. Rinse brushes and wipe tables before the paint dries to make cleanup quicker.
2. Crayola Washable Metallic Paint Set, 6 x 2 oz — Best for a first metallic set at home
Crayola’s metallic set offers six 2 oz bottles in red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple. It belongs to Crayola’s washable line, which the listing says washes easily from skin and most washable clothing.
Small bottles are a sensible way to see whether your child enjoys metallic effects before buying classroom-size paint.
Best suited for: Families wanting a small, trusted metallic set for occasional crafts.
Key features:
- Six metallic colors in 2 oz bottles
- Washable from skin and most washable fabrics
- Blendable colors per the listing
- Part of Crayola’s kids paint range
Pros:
- Trusted kids brand
- Small, low-risk set
- Rainbow metallic colors
Cons and limitations:
- No gold or silver in this set
- Small bottles empty quickly
- Less shine than acrylic
Buying consideration: If gold and silver are what your child wants for crowns and stars, choose Colorations or Positive Art instead, as this set focuses on rainbow metallics.
3. Positive Art Metallic Washable Tempera, 6 x 4 oz — Best for posters, lettering and holiday crafts
Positive Art includes the classic metallics most crafts call for: gold, silver and bronze, among six shimmer colors in 4 oz flip-top bottles. It is made in the USA, water-based and described as washable from skin and most machine-washable fabrics.
The listing emphasizes creamy, non-drip coverage for bold letters and shapes on paper and poster board, which makes it a good fit for school projects and holiday decorations.
Best suited for: School projects, posters, cards and holiday ornaments.
Key features:
- Six shimmer colors including gold, silver and bronze
- 4 oz flip-top bottles
- Washable, water-based tempera
- Made in USA
Pros:
- Classic metallics for crafts
- Flip-tops help portion paint
- Good poster board coverage
Cons and limitations:
- Matte-leaning finish per the listing details
- Mid tier for 24 oz total
- Not permanent
Buying consideration: Squeeze small puddles onto paper plates rather than letting kids dip straight from the bottle; it keeps colors clean.
4. DAWNIGO Metallic Tempera Paint Sticks, 24 Pack — Best for toddlers and mess-free crafting
Paint sticks look like glue sticks but lay down a thick layer of tempera paint, and they need no brushes or water. DAWNIGO’s pack contains 12 metallic colors, two sticks of each. The listing says they dry in about 90 seconds, are smudge-proof once dry and wash off skin and clothes.
For toddlers who are still learning to grip a brush, the twist-up stick shape is easier to control, and there is nothing to spill.
Best suited for: Toddlers, road trips, restaurants and classrooms where water cups are a problem.
Key features:
- 24 sticks: 12 metallic colors x 2
- Twist-up design; no brushes or water
- Quick drying per the listing
- Washable, non-toxic formula
Pros:
- Least mess in this guide
- Easy grip for small hands
- Lowest price tier
Cons and limitations:
- Cannot mix colors like liquid paint
- Can be pressed too hard and broken
- Coverage is streakier than liquid paint
Buying consideration: Remind kids to twist up only a little at a time; extended sticks snap easily.
5. Cra-Z-Art Washable Glitter Paint, 8 x 4 oz — Best for maximum sparkle
If your child wants sparkle more than a smooth metallic sheen, glitter paint delivers. Cra-Z-Art’s bulk pack includes eight 4 oz bottles in assorted colors, made in the USA and described as washable and non-toxic.
The listing recommends it for non-greasy surfaces such as canvas and cardboard and notes it can be applied with brushes, sponges, stamps, rollers or fingers.
Best suited for: Party crafts, holiday cards and kids who want everything to sparkle.
Key features:
- Eight glitter colors in 4 oz bottles
- Washable, non-toxic, made in USA
- Works with brushes, sponges, stamps and fingers
- Shimmery finish
Pros:
- Strong sparkle effect
- Good volume for the tier
- Finger-paint friendly
Cons and limitations:
- Glitter, not a true metallic sheen
- Glitter can transfer before fully dry
- Not for greasy or slick surfaces
Buying consideration: Let glitter paintings dry flat for longer than regular paint before stacking or displaying.
6. Shuttle Art 8-Color Metallic Acrylic Paint (250 ml each) — Best for older kids and permanent projects
For kids around eight and up who want rocks, wood ornaments or canvas paintings that keep their shine, metallic acrylic is the step up. Shuttle Art’s set includes eight metallic paints in 250 ml (8.45 oz) bottles, plus a palette knife and sponge. It conforms to ASTM D4236 and EN71-3 and is labeled non-toxic and acid-free.
Remember that acrylic is permanent once dry. It will not wash out of clothes, so pair it with a smock and adult supervision.
Best suited for: Tweens and older children doing rock painting, wood crafts and canvas art with supervision.
Key features:
- Eight metallic acrylic colors, 250 ml each
- Palette knife and sponge included
- ASTM D4236 and EN71-3 conformance
- Gloss finish
Pros:
- Brightest, most durable shine here
- Large bottles for many projects
- Works on rocks, wood and canvas
Cons and limitations:
- Not washable once dry
- Not suitable for toddlers
- Higher tier
Buying consideration: Use this set for keepsakes and outdoor rock painting, and stick with washable tempera for everyday crafts.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Metallic Paint for Kids
Match the format to the age
Toddlers do best with paint sticks or thick washable tempera. Preschool and early elementary children can handle washable liquid tempera with brushes and sponges. Acrylic suits older kids who can follow cleanup rules.
Check the safety label
Look for ASTM D4236 conformance or the AP seal. If children in your group have allergies, choose products like Colorations that list allergens they exclude.
Washable is not the same as stain-proof
Washable paints come out of skin and most washable fabrics more easily, but fresh rinsing helps a lot. Metallic and glitter particles can linger on some fabrics, so a smock is still worth it.
Decide on gold and silver
Many kids’ crafts call for gold and silver specifically. Check the color list, because some metallic sets focus on rainbow shades instead.
Buy enough volume
For classrooms, 8 oz bottles are more economical. For occasional home crafts, 2–4 oz bottles avoid paint drying out before it is used.
Think about the surface
Washable tempera works on paper, cardboard and papier-mâché. For rocks, wood and anything outdoors, metallic acrylic grips better and lasts longer.
Setting Up a Low-Mess Metallic Paint Session
A little preparation keeps shimmer on the artwork rather than on the table, the floor and the dog. This setup works for one child at a kitchen table or a group of twenty in a classroom:
- Cover the surface. A plastic tablecloth or a sheet of kraft paper taped down at the corners makes cleanup a single roll-and-toss.
- Dress for paint. A long-sleeved smock or an old adult T-shirt worn backwards protects clothes better than a bib-style apron.
- Portion paint first. Squeeze coin-sized amounts onto paper plates or egg cartons. Kids use far less than they would pour themselves, and leftover paint stays clean in the bottle.
- One brush per color. Metallics lose their shine quickly when mixed with muddy rinse water, so give each color its own brush or sponge.
- Keep a damp cloth handy. Wiping hands mid-project stops metallic fingerprints from traveling across the page.
- Choose a drying spot in advance. A clear shelf, a drying rack or a clothesline with pegs saves wet paintings from being stacked.
- Clean while wet. Rinse brushes and wipe the table as soon as the activity ends; washable paint cleans up most easily before it dries.
Shiny Project Ideas to Try
Metallic paint is perfect for painted rock critters with gold eyes or silver shells, and it adds a fun shimmer to an easy dinosaur painting for kids. For tiny artists, try a metallic red on our easy ladybug painting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Giving acrylic to toddlers. It is permanent once dry and harder to clean.
- Skipping the smock. Even washable metallics can leave a sheen on some fabrics.
- Painting metallic on glossy plastic. Tempera will flake; use acrylic on slick surfaces, or prime them.
- Letting paint dry in brushes. Rinse during the activity, not just after.
- Stacking glitter paintings too soon. Glitter paint needs extra drying time.
- Overloading paper. Thin paper buckles under thick paint; use cardstock or poster board.
FAQs
Is metallic paint safe for kids?
Metallic paints made for children, such as washable tempera labeled ASTM D4236 or AP-certified, are designed for kids’ use. Always follow age guidance on the label and supervise younger children.
Does washable metallic paint come out of clothes?
Washable formulas are designed to come out of most washable fabrics, especially when rinsed promptly. Results can vary with fabric type, so use a smock for best results.
What is the difference between metallic and glitter paint?
Metallic paint has fine reflective particles that create a smooth sheen. Glitter paint contains visible flakes that sparkle but leave a textured surface.
Can kids use metallic paint on rocks?
Yes, but use acrylic for rocks that will sit outdoors or be handled a lot. Washable tempera can rub off. Seal painted rocks with a clear varnish applied by an adult.
What age can kids use paint sticks?
Paint sticks are popular with toddlers and preschoolers because they need no water or brushes. Check the age recommendation on the specific product and supervise young children.
How do I make metallic paint look shinier?
Paint on a smooth surface, apply a second coat after the first dries, and avoid diluting it with water. For extra shine, older kids can finish acrylic projects with a gloss varnish.
Final Recommendation
For everyday crafting at home or school, Colorations Metallic Simply Washable Tempera is the best mix of volume, safety labeling and coverage. Choose Positive Art if you need gold, silver and bronze for posters and holidays, or Crayola for a small first set. Toddlers will do best with DAWNIGO paint sticks, sparkle fans will love Cra-Z-Art glitter paint, and older kids ready for permanent projects can graduate to the Shuttle Art metallic acrylic set.
