Make a Mess: 5 Fun Art Projects for Kids and Adults Alike

Life is messy. Instead of trying to keep things clean and pristine, why not indulge in a little colorful, creative play? Invite the kids to use their hands and make something. (Don't have kids? These projects are totally adult-approved.) You can always tidy up when you're done — just keep some stain remover on hand in case of emergencies.

1. Fingerpainting

This classic kid's activity is so simple yet satisfying. You can make your own fingerpaints, use sponges to keep things clean or even try your best to contain the mess by letting small kids experiment with color inside a sealed baggie.

2. Slime

Perfect for Halloween or kitchen-counter science experiments, slime is super simple to make and, if done right, super messy. Grab a bottle of glue and some baking soda, and follow this gooey recipe for tie-dye slime.

3. Decoupage

To make these decoupage cards, you just need patterned papers, decoupage glue, and a brush. Use a card stock for the base, cut out different patterned shapes, and brush the back of your papers with glue to affix to the card stock. For an easier project that works well with younger kids, use sticker paper (no glue needed).

4. Painted Pots

Terracotta pots, acrylic paint, and sponge brushes are all you need to create these decorative planters. Dots, stripes, and bands of color are all simple styles that older kids can easily master. For younger kids, help them decorate a polka-dotted pot — just dab the edge of the brush to make the dots.

5. Lemon Stamps

Teach kids to make their own cards and wrapping paper using lemons. Just cut a lemon in half, dip it on an ink pad, and stamp it on the paper. Use different colors and different-sized lemons to vary the pattern. You can also use fingerling potatoes, cut in half, to create polka dots.

Clean-Up Time

When it's time to clean up, OxiClean™ Versatile Stain Remover is there to help. Just get started while the paint/ink/glue is still fresh. Whether it's stains on clothes, upholstery, hard surfaces, or carpet, OxiClean™ can handle it — which means you get to spend more time making the messes, and less time cleaning them up.

^{This post is sponsored by the maker of OxiClean™ and was created by the Apartment Therapy Creative Studio.
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