10 Fun Ways To Paint Without a Paintbrush

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Check out these creative ways to paint without a paintbrush! From sponges to bubble wrap, these fun techniques use everyday objects for kids to explore painting!

Painting is one of the best ways to express creativity, but who says you need a traditional paintbrush? Whether you’re crafting with kids, looking for a unique art project, or just want to mix things up, try these everyday objects!

Check out these 10 creative alternatives to paintbrushes and bring your kids artwork to life in unexpected ways. Scroll down below to get my FREE printable guide! 

1. Sponge Painting

Sponges are fantastic for creating texture in your paintings! Cut them into different shapes, dip sponges in paint, and press them onto paper for a cool effect. You can also use a sea sponge for a more natural, organic look.

2. Handprint Art

Get hands-on with your painting! Kids especially love dipping their hands in paint and stamping them on paper. You can turn handprints into any fun shapes! Add some details with fingers to make it even more fun!

3. Yarn Stamping

Wrap yarn around a block or a rolling pin, dip it in paint, and roll it onto your canvas. This method creates unique patterns and can be a great way to explore texture and movement in painting. You can even make yarn doodles!

4. Toothbrush Splatter Painting

Want to create a fun splatter effect? Use an old toothbrush! Dip it in paint, then flick the bristles with your finger to spray tiny drops of paint onto the canvas. This is a great technique for making starry night skies or cool abstract backgrounds.

5. Paper Tube Stamping

Don’t toss those empty toilet paper or paper towel tubes—use them for painting! Dip one end in paint and press it onto paper for circular patterns. You can also cut the ends into heart shaped paper tube stamps. 

6. Leaf Prints

Nature has the best art tools! Pick some leaves, paint one side, and press them onto your paper for beautiful leaf prints. Try different types of leaves to see how they create unique patterns. We love making leaf butterflies and animals like leaf turtles!

7. Cotton Swabs

Cotton swabs are great for creating small details or dot paintings. Dip a cotton swab into paint and use it to make fun patterns, pointillism-style art, or delicate designs. We’ve also made cotton swab rainbows! 

8. Bubble Wrap Stamping

Bubble wrap makes an amazing texture! Brush paint onto a piece of bubble wrap, then press it onto paper for a fun polka-dot effect. Try layering different colors for a cool, multidimensional look. Check out this fun bubble wrap apple!

9. Potato Masher Prints

Kitchen tools can double as painting tools! A potato masher works great for stamping bold patterns. Dip it in paint, press it onto paper, and see what creative designs you can come up with like this potato masher chick craft.

10. Building Blocks Stamping

LEGO bricks or other building blocks aren’t just for play—they make great painting tools, too! Dip them in paint and stamp them on paper to create brick-like patterns or fun geometric designs. You can stick on foam to make cute stamps! 

Final thoughts

There are no rules when it comes to art, so grab some paint and experiment with these fun tools. Whether you’re creating abstract masterpieces, colorful textures, or just having fun with the process, painting without a brush can lead to some fun art from the kids! 

Grab our free printable guide! 10 Fun Ways To Paint Without a Paintbrush