How to Make Splatter Colour Art (Holi) for Kids Aged 4–7

Splatter colour art is a brilliant way to celebrate Holi with young children. It's messy, joyful, and requires minimal materials—making it perfect for families looking for a fun, low-stress creative activity. Here's how to set up a splatter art session that kids will love.

What You'll Need

• Washable poster paint or acrylic paint in bright colours (reds, yellows, blues, greens, purples)
• Water in shallow bowls or containers
• Old toothbrushes, paintbrushes, or sponges
• Large sheets of white paper or cardboard
• Plastic sheeting or old newspapers to protect surfaces
• Aprons or old clothes (paint will splash!)
• Paper plates for mixing colours
• Spray bottles filled with diluted paint (optional, for extra splatter effect)

Setting Up Your Space

Lay down plastic sheeting or newspapers across your work area—walls, floors, and nearby furniture will all be at risk of colourful splashes. Set up a designated splatter zone where children can move freely without worrying about mess. Ensure each child wears an apron or clothes you don't mind getting paint on. Have a water station nearby for rinsing brushes and hands.

The Splatter Technique

Pour small amounts of paint into shallow bowls or onto paper plates. Show children how to dip a toothbrush or old paintbrush into the paint, then flick or tap it over the paper to create splatter patterns. For younger children (4–5 years), a softer approach works well—they can use sponges dipped in paint and press them onto the paper for colour bursts. Older children (6–7 years) enjoy the control of flicking brushes and experimenting with layering colours.

Encourage them to try different colours, overlap splashes, and create their own unique patterns. There's no "right" way to do it—the joy is in the creative freedom and sensory experience.

Making It Extra Special

Play upbeat music in the background to set a celebratory mood. Let children work on large sheets so they feel like they're creating something bold and impressive. You can also cut their finished artwork into shapes (circles, stars, or hearts) to display as decorations or gift them to family members.

Clean-Up Tips

Use washable paint to make clean-up easier. Have wet wipes or a damp cloth station ready for quick hand-cleaning between colours. Once the artwork is dry, simply roll up the plastic sheeting and dispose of it—most of the mess comes away with it.

Splatter colour art is a wonderful way to celebrate Holi's spirit of joy, colour, and togetherness. Kids will have a blast, and you'll have beautiful, vibrant artwork to treasure.