Choosing The Best Homeschool Art Supplies -

Navigating the world of homeschooling art?

It’s like a trip to an art store. So many options, right?

But before we fill up our cart, let’s chat about what we really want for our kiddos when it comes to art and the homeschool art supplies we need to get them there.

Define Your Art Curriculum Needs

Think of this as our art planning coffee date. 🍵

What do you dream of when you picture your child with art?

Is it them exploring colors, shapes, and textures?

Or maybe diving deep into techniques and creating masterpieces?

Every homeschooling journey is unique, just like every child. Start by asking yourself a few questions:

What do I want my child to achieve with art? Is it about mastering specific skills, expressing creativity, or both?
Do you see art as its own adventure, or does it weave into other subjects you’re teaching?
Are there certain art techniques or crafts you’re itching to try out this year?

Your answers? They’re like your personal art shopping list.

They’ll help you pick just what fits your homeschooling vision, without getting sidetracked.

Age-Appropriate Homeschool Art Supplies

Alright, here’s the deal. Kids grow fast, and what fascinated them last year might bore them now. So, let’s think age-appropriate to keep the budget in check:

Little ones? They’re all about hands-on, messy, tactile fun.
The older crew? They might be craving more refined tools to channel their inner artist.
Safety? Absolutely a top priority. But it’s also about matching their art tools with where they are right now.

And remember, that age is relative to the child. You might have a kiddo that is extremely artistic and would benefit from more mature tools at a younger age.

Or, your student might enjoy exploring the materials generally reserved for younger grades.

Meeting them where they’re at. That’s the beauty of homeschooling, right?

Add a Little Fun With Themes

If you’re planning a thematic art week to support your unit studies, why not explore the wonders of the ocean?

Crafting mermaid tails, creating underwater scenes, or even diving into mermaid writing prompts can be a fantastic way to fuel their creativity.

Who knows, you might end up with stories filled with oceanic tale inspirations and enchanted sea narratives!

Essential Homeschool Art Supplies for Early Elementary

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Stepping into the world of homeschool art supplies can feel a bit like being a kid in a candy store. So many colors, textures, and possibilities!

But, just like you wouldn’t buy the entire candy store (tempting, I know), you don’t need every art supply under the sun to start.

Let’s focus on the essentials that’ll give your young artist a fantastic jumpstart.

Free Printable Homeschool Art Supplies List

I’ve got a little treat for you. A handy-dandy printable list to keep track of all these essentials!

You can print it, stick it on the fridge, or tuck it into your planner. But first, let’s dive into what’s on that list.

Aprons: Messy is fun, but laundry? Not so much. Aprons are your best buddies to keep those cute outfits paint-free. Plus, kiddos feel super official wearing them!

Note: If you’re looking to make it extra special…why not take one of your children’s favorite pieces of art and have a custom art apron made? Bonus points if you get a matching one!

Crayons: A classic. They’re colorful, easy to grip, and perfect for those tiny hands just learning to express. Try out different blends and types (wax, glitter, classic, etc.)

Safety Scissors: Graduate them to the bigger kids safety scissors as soon as they can safely use them. It’s all about fostering independence with a touch of caution.

Do a Dot Markers: Mostly for Pre-K, but we do use them occasionally up through 3rd grade. If you haven’t tried these, you’re in for a treat. They’re like the love child of paint and markers. Less mess, tons of fun!

White Sulphite Paper: This is a smooth, thick paper that works well with all mediums. While I love watercolor paper, this is one of my go-to homeschool art supplies.

Oil Pastels: We generally outline our art in the younger grades. Oil pastels work really well for this and a lovely splurge are the neon set from Crayola you can use on dark paper.

Tempera Paints: Wondering if you should use Tempera or Acrylic? The answer lies in how often you think you’ll be cleaning up a mess. Tempera paint is washable. Crayola tempera paints are a trusty paint veteran.

Air Dry Clay: Squishy, moldable fun that turns into art without needing an oven. We love Crayola Brand. We use that with our Faber Castell art wheel. To go with something a little less messy, you might consider the Hey Clay line for shorter more themed clay projects. The clay is fabulously easy to work with.

Advanced Homeschool Art Supplies for Upper Elementary

As our kiddos grow and their artistic horizons expand, it’s time to level up your homeschool art supplies.

We’re moving beyond the basics and diving deeper into the creative pool. So, if you’ve got an aspiring Picasso or Kahlo on your hands, this section is where the magic happens!

Colored Pencils: For when they want to add a splash of color to those sketches. Pro tip: Get a quality sharpener, too!

Liquid Watercolors: If your older students are eager, invest in some less expensive watercolor tubes or liquid watercolors to let them take their techniques to the next level.

Watercolor Paper: Possibly the best investment you can make if you’re doing any work with watercolors. The loose bulk sheets tend to be less expensive.

Canvases: Whether it’s a small masterpiece or a grand creation, canvases offer a professional feel to their projects.

Easels: A solid easel can change the painting game. It’s not just practical but also makes them feel like a pro!

Chalk Pastels: Smooth, blendable, and oh-so-colorful. These are great for creating dreamy landscapes and vibrant artworks.

Sustainable and Safe Homeschool Art Supplies

In our homeschooling journey, it’s not just about nurturing the mind, but also caring for our planet and the well-being of our kiddos. The art world is no exception.

Here are a few choices that are safe for your children and Mother Earth.

Non-Toxic Choices for Kids

Safety first, always! When it comes to homeschool art supplies, it’s easy to get lured by pretty colors and forget to peek at the ingredients.

But guess what? We can have both – vibrant art and peace of mind.

Crayons and Paints: Look for labels that say “non-toxic” or “AP Certified”. This means they’ve been tested and are safe for kiddo use.
Glue and Adhesives: While most school glues are non-toxic, it’s always a good practice to check. And remember, non-toxic doesn’t mean edible, so always supervise those younger munchkins.
Clay and Playdough: Go for brands that promise non-toxic components. Some homemade playdough recipes are great too, using kitchen ingredients.
Markers: Water-based markers are typically safer than permanent or alcohol-based ones. Look for those with non-toxic labels.

Remember, if in doubt, check it out. A quick look at product reviews or a chat with fellow homeschooling parents can be super enlightening.

Environmentally Friendly Art Products

Because we love art and our planet, right? Making eco-friendly choices isn’t just a trend; it’s a way to teach our kids about responsibility and sustainability.

Recycled Paper: From sketchbooks to drawing pads, recycled paper options are aplenty. They work just as well and give a second life to used paper.
Natural Paints: Did you know there are paints made from natural ingredients like beetroot, spinach, and turmeric? They’re not just eco-friendly but also super fun to use.
Eco-friendly Brushes: Brushes with bamboo handles or recycled materials are a win-win. They’re durable, sustainable, and perfect for those artistic strokes.
Biodegradable Glitters: Yes, they exist! Let’s get sparkly without the environmental guilt.
Reusables: Think fabric instead of paper for aprons, washable markers, and refillable paint pots. Small switches make a big difference!

It’s all about making mindful choices. By opting for sustainable and safe homeschool art supplies, we’re not just creating art; we’re also crafting a better future for our children.

Organizing and Storing Your Homeschool Art Supplies

Raise your hand if you’ve ever found a rogue crayon in the couch or stepped on a rogue paintbrush (ouch!).

Keeping our homeschool art supplies organized isn’t just about tidiness—it’s about ensuring your art session isn’t a scavenger hunt.

Creating an Efficient Art Storage System

If we were having a cozy coffee chat, I’d lean in and whisper: “The secret? It’s all about zones and accessibility.”

Clear Storage Bins: Visibility is key. Use clear bins or boxes to store paints, brushes, and other tools. That way, you see what you have at a glance.
Lazy Susans for the Win: Perfect for siblings sharing art tables. Put paints, brushes, or markers on a turntable, and voila! Everyone can easily grab what they need without reaching across the table.
Pegboards and Hooks: A wall-mounted pegboard can be a lifesaver. Hang buckets, scissors, rulers, and more. It keeps things off the table but within easy reach.
Drawer Dividers: Those pesky little items? Drawer dividers or small containers can keep them sorted, so you’re not rummaging for ages.
Art Carts: On wheels and super handy. Stock them up and roll them out whenever inspiration strikes.

Remember, it’s not about creating a Pinterest-perfect space. It’s about creating a system that works for you and your kiddos to have easily accessible homeschool art supplies.

Tips for Keeping Supplies in Top Shape

Alright, real talk? Supplies can be pricey. Let’s ensure they last and stay as vibrant and lovely as day one:

Cap Those Markers: It sounds simple, but ensuring caps are secure keeps markers from drying out.
Clean Brushes Immediately: After using, give brushes a good rinse. For stubborn paint, a touch of gentle soap helps. Always reshape them and let them air dry.
Store Paper Flat: Avoid crumpling and curling by storing drawing and painting paper flat, preferably in a drawer or a horizontal shelf.
Tight Lids: Ensure paint pots and glue have their lids tightly sealed to avoid drying.
Rotate Supplies: Just like groceries, try to use older supplies first. It ensures nothing goes to waste.
Avoid Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade colors. Store homeschool art supplies in a cool, dark place when not in use.

Being mindful of these little tips can extend the life of your supplies, ensuring more masterpieces and less waste.

Making the Most of Your Budget

Homeschooling, while incredibly rewarding, can sometimes feel like we’re stretching our pennies till they scream.

But when it comes to homeschool art supplies? You don’t always need to splurge to sparkle. Let’s chat about getting the most bang for your buck without skimping on quality.

Affordable Brands that Don’t Compromise on Quality

Alright, lovely, here’s the inside scoop: there are brands out there that get it. They understand we want quality without emptying our wallets. Let’s name drop a few:

Crayola: There’s nothing like a classic. You can’t go wrong with Crayola. If you have the budget, I love the Premiere Tempera and Educator’s Watercolor pan.

Faber Castell: Their watercolors? Fabulous. They offer rich pigments and smooth application, and they’re perfect for young artists honing their skills.

Blick Art: From markers to paint, the Blick labeled brand is affordable and reliable.
Royal & Langnickel: For brushes, you can’t beat the quality of the Royal & Langnickel brand.

Remember, the best brand is the one that aligns with your family’s needs. Sometimes it’s worth testing a few different ones to see which you fall in love with.

Tips for Finding Deals and Discounts

Because who doesn’t love a good deal? Let’s get savvy:

Coupon Queen: Retailers like Michaels, JoAnn, and Hobby Lobby frequently offer coupons. Sign up for their newsletters or download their apps.
Bulk Buys: If you find a product you love, consider buying in bulk. Websites like Blick Art Materials or Amazon often offer discounts for larger quantities.
Seasonal Sales: Back-to-school season? Holiday sales? These are prime times to snag deals on homeschool art supplies.
Local Art Schools: Sometimes, they’ll have sales or even giveaways of gently used or excess supplies.
Online Art Communities: Websites or forums dedicated to art often share deals, discounts, or group buys. It’s also a fabulous way to connect with fellow art enthusiasts.
DIY: Some homeschool art supplies can be made at home for a fraction of the cost. Think homemade playdough or natural dyes.

Thrifty doesn’t mean stingy. It means smart and resourceful. By being a savvy shopper, you’re ensuring that creativity keeps flowing without draining your budget.

Special Extras: Nice-to-Have Homeschool Art Supplies

Sometimes, it’s the little unexpected touches that elevate an art project from cool to “Wow, look what I made!” While these aren’t must-haves, they’re fabulous to sprinkle in for some extra magic:

Metallic Markers and Gel Pens: They add a pop of shimmer to any piece. Trust me, the kiddos (and maybe you too!) will love them.

Washi Tape: It’s not just for planners. It’s decorative, colorful, and can frame art or add unique designs.

Stamp Sets: From animals to stars, these can jazz up a piece or be used in fun pattern-making activities.

Stencils: Whether it’s shapes, letters, or more intricate designs, stencils are a great tool for those who might be a tad hesitant to draw freehand.

Art Journals: These are wonderful for daily doodling, sketching, or capturing memories.

Paint Pens: Posca markers are my favorite for their vibrant colors.

Remember, these are like the cherry on top. Not necessary, but oh-so-delightful!

Wrapping Up & Additional Thoughts

That’s a lot of information to unpack isn’t it?

Final thoughts about this homeschool art supplies list

At the end of the day, while it’s fabulous to have an abundance of art tools, remember that the heart of art lies in expression, creativity, and connection.

You might discover that your students actually do more with less options. When they’re given space to really explore a medium rather than moving on to something new, magic happens.

What would you add to this list of homeschool art supplies?

I’d love to hear from you. Is there a magic tool or product that’s brought endless joy to your art sessions?

Drop a comment, send an email, or connect on social media. Sharing is caring.

***Don’t forget to Pin this for later.***

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you organize homeschool art supplies?

Use clear bins for visibility, categorize by type, utilize drawer dividers for small items, employ pegboards for hanging tools, and consider rolling art carts for mobility. Keep supplies accessible and in designated zones.

What is considered art for homeschool?

Art encompasses drawing, painting, sculpture, crafts, digital design, and more. It’s any creative expression or activity that fosters imagination, skill development, and appreciation for visual aesthetics in a homeschool setting.

Ready to Add Joyful Art to Your Homeschool?

Create art for art’s sake. No stuffy lessons that have the kids yawning.

Choose fun, hands-on projects your kids will love!

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