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Few things excite a young painter like sparkle. Glitter paint turns a simple snowflake into a holiday decoration and a rainbow into something worth taping to the fridge. The good news for parents is that glitter paint keeps the glitter suspended in the paint, so you get the shine without a cloud of loose craft glitter settling into the carpet for months.
The best glitter paints for kids are washable, carry clear safety labeling, and come in bottles that make portioning easy. Below are six options, from small mixed sets to big classroom bottles, plus a shimmer tempera for a softer metallic look and a glow-in-the-dark rock kit for something different. We also explain how to make glitter paint show up better, which surfaces it suits, and how to deal with cleanup.
Quick answer: For most homes, the Cra-Z-Art Washable Glitter Paint 8-pack (4 oz bottles) is the best value: eight glitter colors in generous bottles. If you want glitter mixed into a full paint collection, the Shuttle Art 30-color washable tempera set adds glitter, metallic and neon shades. Teachers and daycares buying in volume should look at Colorations washable glitter paint, set of 11 pints.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Cra-Z-Art Washable Glitter Paint, 8 x 4 oz — Best overall glitter paint for kids
- Shuttle Art Washable Tempera, 30 Colors — Best set with glitter, metallic and neon
- Colorations Washable Glitter Paint, 11 x 16 oz — Best for classrooms and daycares
- Crayola Washable Kids Paint, 12 Colors — Best starter mix of classic and glitter
- Positive Art Metallic Washable Tempera, 6 Colors — Best shimmer alternative for posters
- Dan&Darci Glow in the Dark Rock Painting Kit — Best sparkly craft kit for ages 6-12
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Key Strength | Price Tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cra-Z-Art Glitter 8ct | Home painting | 8 glitter colors x 4 oz | Made in USA, washable | $ |
| Shuttle Art Tempera 30 | Variety | 30 x 2 oz incl. glitter, metallic, neon | ASTM D4236 & EN71 | $$ |
| Colorations Glitter 11 | Classrooms | 11 x 16 oz wide-mouth bottles | Allergen-free claims, AP certified | $$$ |
| Crayola Washable 12ct | First sparkle set | 6 classic + 6 glitter | Familiar washable formula | $ |
| Positive Art Metallic | Posters, lettering | 6 x 4 oz flip-top, gold, silver, bronze | Shimmer without glitter bits | $$ |
| Dan&Darci Glow Rock Kit | Ages 6-12 crafts | 10 rocks, glow paints, glitter glue | Complete kit | $ |
How We Chose
We did not paint with these products for this article. Our choices draw on Amazon listing details and specifications checked in October 2026, how well each paint’s formula, bottle size and safety claims fit children’s crafts, and how widely each product is reviewed by Amazon buyers. A face and body glitter gel palette also appeared in the search; it is a cosmetic product rather than a paint for art projects, so it is not included.
- Washability: listed as washable from skin and most fabrics.
- Safety: non-toxic claims, ASTM D4236 and AP certification where listed.
- Glitter load: enough sparkle to show on paper and cardboard.
- Bottle format: squeeze or wide-mouth bottles that are easy to portion.
- Value: ounces per set, especially for classrooms.
Glitter Paint vs Glitter Glue vs Metallic Paint
These three are often confused. Glitter paint is paint, usually washable tempera, with fine glitter suspended in it. It brushes on like regular paint and dries with a sparkly surface. Glitter glue is a thicker gel that sits on top of a surface, best for outlines and dots rather than filling areas. Metallic or shimmer paint uses reflective pigments for a smooth sheen without visible flakes, which looks smarter on posters and lettering.
For most kids’ art, glitter paint is the easiest. Metallic tempera suits school projects where readability matters, and glitter glue works best as a final accent.
Best Glitter Paints for Kids Reviewed
1. Cra-Z-Art Washable Glitter Paint, 8 x 4 oz — Best for everyday glitter painting at home
Cra-Z-Art’s bulk pack gives you eight shiny glitter colors in 4 oz bottles, 32 ounces in total. The listing says the paints are made in the USA, washable and non-toxic, with a shimmery finish that glistens from every angle.
It is recommended for non-greasy surfaces like canvas and cardboard and can be used with brushes, sponges, stamps, rollers or fingers. Four-ounce bottles last far longer than the small bottles in most kids’ sets, which matters because glitter colors tend to be favorites.
Best suited for: Families who want a dedicated glitter paint set with enough volume for many holiday and party crafts.
Key features:
- 8 glitter colors
- 4 oz bottles (32 oz total)
- Washable and non-toxic
- Made in USA
- Works with brushes, sponges, stamps and fingers
Pros:
- Generous bottle size for the price
- All glitter, no filler colors
- Versatile application tools
Cons and limitations:
- Glitter paint can look translucent on dark paper
- No brushes included
- Not suited to greasy or glossy surfaces
Buying consideration: Paint on white or light paper, or over a dry base color, so the glitter stands out.
2. Shuttle Art Washable Tempera Paint, 30 Colors — Best for a set that includes glitter, metallic and neon
Shuttle Art’s 30-bottle tempera set includes popular glitter, metallic and neon colors alongside classic shades, each in a 2 oz bottle. That mix suits kids who want sparkle on some projects and solid color on others.
The listing says the water-based paint washes easily from skin and most children’s clothing and wipes from glass and furniture. It conforms to ASTM D4236 and EN71 and works with fingers, brushes, sponge rollers and stampers.
Best suited for: Kids who want a full paint collection with sparkle included, and parents who would rather buy one set than several.
Key features:
- 30 washable tempera colors in 2 oz bottles
- Glitter, metallic and neon shades
- ASTM D4236 and EN71
- Gloss finish
- Works with many tools
Pros:
- Huge variety in one purchase
- Washable tempera
- Good for finger and brush painting
Cons and limitations:
- Fewer glitter colors than a dedicated glitter set
- 2 oz bottles empty quickly
- Many colors require storage
Buying consideration: Keep glitter colors in their own caddy so they do not get mixed into every painting and lose their impact.
3. Colorations Washable Glitter Paints, Set of 11 (16 oz) — Best for classrooms and daycares
Colorations makes classroom-scale supplies, and this set of 11 washable glitter paints in 16 oz bottles, 176 ounces total, is built for daily group use. Wide-mouth bottles let kids dip brushes and fingers directly, and the listing describes tight-sealing lids.
The listing notes AP and ASTM D4236 certification for non-toxicity, a paraben-free formula and freedom from common allergens such as latex, dairy and casein, egg and gluten. That can matter in daycares and schools with allergy policies.
Best suited for: Teachers, daycare providers and art camps that go through glitter paint quickly.
Key features:
- 11 glitter colors
- 16 oz wide-mouth bottles
- AP and ASTM D4236 certified
- Paraben-free, allergen-free claims
- Washable from most fabrics and non-porous surfaces
Pros:
- Huge volume
- Allergen information useful for schools
- Wide-mouth bottles for group dipping
Cons and limitations:
- Highest price tier
- Big bottles are heavy for small hands
- More than most families need
Buying consideration: For a classroom, pour into smaller cups for each table rather than letting children dip into the main bottles.
4. Crayola Washable Kids Paint Set, 12 Colors — Best for a starter mix of classic and glitter
This Amazon-exclusive Crayola set includes 6 classic and 6 glitter washable colors. The listing says the glitter colors add a dazzling effect and the paints wash from skin and most washable clothing.
It is a sensible first purchase for younger children. You get sparkle without committing to a full glitter set, and the classic colors cover everyday paintings. The age guidance is 3 and up.
Best suited for: Preschool and early elementary kids getting their first paint set with some sparkle.
Key features:
- 6 classic and 6 glitter colors
- Washable formula
- Ages 3+
Pros:
- Balanced mix
- Trusted washable paint
- Low price
Cons and limitations:
- Small bottles
- No brushes
- Only six glitter shades
Buying consideration: If the glitter colors run out first, refill with a dedicated glitter set rather than buying the whole set again.
5. Positive Art Metallic Washable Tempera Paint, 6 Colors — Best for posters and shimmer lettering
Not every sparkle project needs glitter. Positive Art’s metallic tempera includes gold, silver and bronze among six shimmer colors in 4 oz flip-top bottles. The listing describes creamy, non-drip coverage for bold letters, shapes and accents on paper and poster board.
It is washable from skin and most machine-washable fabrics and made in the USA, per the listing. Because there are no glitter flakes, it reads more cleanly on school posters and science fair boards.
Best suited for: Older kids making posters, holiday cards and lettering where readability matters.
Key features:
- 6 metallic shimmer colors
- 4 oz flip-top bottles
- Washable tempera
- Made in USA
- Matte base with shimmer
Pros:
- Clean metallic look
- Flip tops control portions
- Good for lettering
Cons and limitations:
- Not true glitter
- Fewer colors
- Shimmer is subtle on colored paper
Buying consideration: Use metallic tempera for letters and borders, and glitter paint for backgrounds and decorations.
6. Dan&Darci Glow in the Dark Rock Painting Kit — Best for a sparkly craft kit for ages 6-12
For older kids, a kit can be more exciting than paint alone. Dan&Darci includes 10 smooth white river rocks, 4 puffy glow-in-the-dark paints, 6 standard paints, gold and silver glitter glue, 2 paintbrushes, googly eyes and gem stickers, according to the listing.
The glitter glue and gems add sparkle, while the glow paints add a surprise once the lights go out. It is aimed at ages 6 to 12.
Best suited for: School-age kids who want a complete project with sparkle, glow and decorations.
Key features:
- 10 river rocks
- 4 glow-in-the-dark puffy paints
- 6 standard paints
- Gold and silver glitter glue
- Brushes, googly eyes and gem stickers
Pros:
- Everything for a finished project
- Glow effect adds novelty
- Good gift option
Cons and limitations:
- Small paint quantities
- Not a refillable paint set
- Rocks are limited to 10
Buying consideration: Seal finished rocks with a clear coat if they will be handled often or placed outdoors.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Glitter Paints for Kids
Washable formula first
Glitter paints for kids are usually washable tempera. Look for listings that say washable from skin and most fabrics, and remember that glitter particles can still cling to fibers until washed.
Glitter density
More glitter means more sparkle but more translucency. Dedicated glitter sets tend to carry more glitter than glitter colors in mixed sets.
Bottle size and opening
Squeeze bottles help with portioning at home. Wide-mouth bottles suit classrooms where kids dip directly. Larger bottles are better value if glitter is a favorite.
Safety labeling
Check for non-toxic claims, ASTM D4236 and AP certification. Allergen-free claims can matter for schools.
Surface compatibility
Glitter paint works best on paper, cardboard, canvas and paper mache. It does not bond well to greasy or glossy surfaces.
Glitter or shimmer
For posters and lettering, metallic shimmer paint reads more clearly. For decorations, glitter paint delivers more sparkle.
Glitter Paint Project Ideas Through the Year
| Season | Project | Best Paint Type |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | Paper snowflakes, cardboard ornaments, frosty window pictures | Silver and blue glitter paint over white |
| Spring | Butterfly prints, flower pots made from egg cartons | Pastel glitter with sponge stamps |
| Summer | Fish and mermaid scales, starry night skies | Glitter over dark-blue tempera |
| Fall | Leaf rubbings, pumpkin cutouts, spooky signs | Gold, orange and bronze shimmer |
| Any time | Birthday cards, crowns, wands, pet rocks | Mixed glitter set plus metallic accents |
A useful trick for school-age kids is to paint the picture in regular washable tempera, let it dry, and then add glitter paint only to the parts that should shine: stars, crowns, water or snow. This keeps the image readable and makes each bottle last longer. Younger children are usually happiest painting with glitter freely, so keep the plan loose for them.
A Note on Glitter and the Environment
Most craft glitter is plastic, and loose glitter is famously hard to contain. Glitter suspended in paint is easier to manage because it stays bound to the dried project rather than drifting around the room. To keep it out of drains, wipe brushes and palettes on a paper towel before rinsing, and dispose of the towel in the trash. If you want to avoid plastic glitter altogether, metallic shimmer tempera gives a shine without the flakes.
Tips for Better Sparkle (and Easier Cleanup)
- Shake glitter bottles well; glitter settles at the bottom.
- Paint over a dried base color to make glitter pop.
- Use light paper; dark paper hides translucent glitter paint.
- Let projects dry flat so glitter does not slide.
- Wipe tables with a damp cloth before glitter dries.
- Wash smocks and clothes inside out to reduce glitter transfer.
Glitter is perfect for decorating our easy ladybug painting for kids, giving spots a sparkle. Kids can add glittery scales to the dinosaur painting project, or decorate painted rock critters with shiny details.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not shaking the bottle: settled glitter leaves the paint dull.
- Painting glitter on dark paper: it can disappear; use a light base.
- Using cosmetic glitter for art: face glitter is a makeup product, not a craft paint.
- Letting glitter dry on tables: wipe while wet to avoid scrubbing later.
- Expecting opaque coverage: glitter paints are often translucent; layer them.
- Mixing glitter into every color: save it for accents so it stays special.
FAQs
Is glitter paint washable?
Most kids’ glitter paints are washable tempera and come out of skin and most washable fabrics. Glitter particles may need an extra wash to fully remove from clothing.
What is the best glitter paint for toddlers?
Choose washable, non-toxic glitter tempera in squeeze bottles and portion small amounts. Crayola and Cra-Z-Art washable glitter paints are common choices; follow age labels and supervise.
How do I make glitter paint more sparkly?
Shake the bottle well, paint over a dried base color, and apply a second coat. Light-colored paper shows sparkle best.
Can glitter paint be used on canvas?
Yes. Washable glitter paint works on canvas and cardboard, though it is less durable than acrylic. Seal projects you want to keep long term.
Is glitter paint the same as glitter glue?
No. Glitter paint brushes on and covers areas, while glitter glue is thicker and best for outlines and dots.
How do I clean glitter paint off tables?
Wipe with a damp cloth while wet. Once dry, warm soapy water and a soft sponge usually remove it from non-porous surfaces.
Final Recommendation
Choose the Cra-Z-Art glitter 8-pack for the best home value; its 4 oz bottles last. If you would rather have glitter as part of a full palette, Shuttle Art’s 30-color tempera set covers glitter, metallic and neon at once. Classrooms should buy Colorations pints. The Crayola 12-color set is a gentle introduction for younger kids, Positive Art suits shimmery posters and lettering, and Dan&Darci’s rock kit makes a great gift for school-age crafters.
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