Art project mess - how do you contain it?

Jan 11·1 min read

Every time I set up painting or markers with the kids it looks like a hurricane hit the house afterward. Paint on the floor, markers on the table that won't come out, glitter (why did I think glitter was a good idea?) literally everywhere. I've tried the tablecloth thing, the dropcloth thing, even set up outside once but somehow it still spreads. Do I just accept that this is the price of art projects or is there an actual system that works? Asking for my sanity.

4 comments168 views

Comments(4)

MMike R.New DadJan 12

Butcher paper taped to the table is a lifesaver. Roll it out, tape down the edges, and all the mess stays contained. Cleanup is literally just rolling it up and tossing it. Game changer for markers especially.

RRyan M.New DadJan 13

I set up a dedicated art corner with a plastic tablecloth underneath and newspaper taped to the walls. Looks ridiculous but I stopped caring about looking ridiculous years ago. The paint stays in that zone mostly.

BBrandonNew DadJan 14

Old shower curtain liner works great and costs like a dollar. Throw it down, do the art thing, roll it up. Plus if something spills on the actual floor you've got that extra barrier.

DDan K.New DadJan 13

Just accepted the mess happens and I do a sweep of the whole house after. Takes 20 minutes, kids had fun for 2 hours, worth it. The markers on the couch though... that one still stings.