We recently converted a closet in our home into a dedicated craft closet so all of our supplies would have one organized place to live. It’s been wonderful having everything together and creating specific spots for kid-friendly, kid-accessible materials. Below I’m sharing my favorite kids’ craft supplies, how we use them, and tips for storing and cleaning up.
I aim to buy versatile supplies that serve many projects and offer the best value. This list is divided by category and includes storage and cleanup suggestions. It’s comprehensive because crafting is my work, but pick what suits your family and space.
Paint + Paint Supplies
Watercolor paints are compact and perfect for quick, lower-mess projects. Washable craft paint is my go-to for easy cleanup—it’s not perfect but much better than regular paint. For vibrant, long-lasting color we use acrylic or quality craft paint. Puffy paint is an instant hit for textured projects, and food coloring is a fun sensory option, though it stains, so use it carefully.
Keep several jars or cups for paint water. A spray bottle filled with water is great for “spray” painting techniques—drop paint on paper or canvas and spritz to spread color. A variety of paintbrush sizes works well for kids; you don’t need anything fancy. For palettes, reused plastic or metal lids work fine, but small plastic palettes or ceramic ones are nice for older kids.
A portable easel is handy for outdoor painting or propping paper for spray projects.
Markers, Crayons + More
Washable markers make cleanup simple and are a staple. Color-changing markers add surprise and play. Chunky paint sticks combine the feel of a crayon, marker, and paint—great for young hands. Traditional crayons remain reliable; consider recycled or diverse skin-tone crayon options. Roll-up sets of colored pencils are easy to store and travel with, and skin-tone colored pencil sets are useful for portraits or diverse illustrations.
Glue + Adhesives
School glue and glue sticks cover most needs—glue sticks are cleaner for little hands. Mod Podge is ideal for sealing keepsakes. A hot glue gun is invaluable for adult-led projects but should never be used by kids. Washi tape is fun and decorative, while painter’s tape works better for temporary placement on textured walls.
Clay
Model Magic dries lightweight and is great for projects meant to last or be gifted. Modeling dough is excellent for sensory play; natural or scented alternatives can be better for carpets and furniture than traditional play-doh. Keep cookie cutters on hand to create shapes from clay or dough—they’re versatile and fun for imaginative play.
Paper + Surfaces
Save cardboard from boxes, tubes, and packaging—cardboard is perfect for building, painting, and drawing. I prefer colorful cardstock over construction paper because it’s thicker and more durable for cards and keepsake projects. Watercolor paper is essential when water-based painting is likely; higher-quality rag paper is worth it when you plan to frame pieces.
Mini journals make convenient on-the-go art books and become delightful time capsules. Reusable or washable canvases work well with washable paint for repeat use; reserve new canvases for pieces you intend to display. Blank cards are great for older kids to create thoughtful handmade cards for birthdays and holidays. Sunprint paper is a lovely way to turn nature finds into bold, frame-worthy prints.
Keep paint swatches, magazines, and newspapers for collage, color lessons, and papier-mâché. Blank puzzle kits and adhesive magnets are fun ways to turn artwork into gifts or fridge-ready keepsakes.
Wooden Items
Wood beads are extremely versatile—paint them, string them, or use them in pretend play. Unfinished wooden shapes like houses, trees, and seasonal figures are great to paint and use as decorations or play props. Popsicle sticks are perfect for building small structures, puppets, or imaginative projects; keep both regular and jumbo sizes. Wooden dowels occasionally come in handy for constructions like toy rides or wheels.
Fabric, Felt, Pom Poms + More
Felt is indispensable for collage portraits and simple sewing-free projects—wool blends look and feel nicer but the inexpensive felt works for play. Save fabric scraps for collage or mixed-media work. Yarn and rope are useful for dimensional art, bracelet-making, pompoms, and gluing into patterns. Pom pom makers make the process easier, though adults often do most of the work for younger kids. Pom poms and felt balls also serve as tactile sensory pieces and imaginative play props.
Other Go-To Craft Supplies
Pipe cleaners are classic for sculpting and bead-stringing. Googly eyes instantly upgrade drawings and felt portraits. Rubber stamps are a delightful addition when kids are ready for them, and paper punches are surprisingly accessible for small hands and produce great collage material.
How To Store Kids Craft Supplies
I store supplies in pull-out crates, baskets, and small jars so materials are portable and organized. Baskets are versatile for larger items; colorful crates are perfect for grouping paint supplies to grab and go. Recycled jars and cans store small items in a kid-friendly way, and small bowls are handy both for storage and during projects.
Easy Clean Up Supplies for Kids Craft Projects
Setup for simple cleanup makes crafting less daunting. Use a wipeable mat to protect floors and tables; some mats are water-resistant but not always paint-proof, so designate one for messy work. Old tablecloths and towels layered beneath can help protect surfaces and be washed after use. Keep a basket of “paint clothes” for kids to wear when projects will get messy, and aprons are great when you can remember to use them.
Making Kids Craft Supplies Accessible
Autonomy fuels creativity, so I keep adult-only tools out of reach and fill two drawers with jars and containers of kid-safe supplies that our child can access independently. He loves choosing his own materials, and it makes him proud to bring out what he wants to create with.
I hope this guide helps you build a craft closet, shelf, or drawer that encourages creativity and makes art time easier for your family. Choose the supplies that fit your space and the ages of the kids you craft with, and enjoy making together!
Closet Decor Sources
Built-in drawers, hardware, shelves and hanging rod: Tailored Living
Wallpaper: Chasing Paper
Paint color used: Dunn Edwards “Radiant Sunshine”
Find the tutorial for the sunburst bifold closet door makeover in the original project’s archive.