Bubble Painting Techniques
Bubble art painting is the technique of creating colourful and unique artwork without using a paint brush. It is cheap to do as much of the necessary equipment you will already have about the house such as straws and washing up liquid. Just add some paint and paper and you’ll be ready to start. Stock up on paint supplies here.
How do you do bubble painting?
You’ll need to decide whether you are going to use paper or ceramics for your bubble paint art project and of course the thickness of bubbles and the required density of paint needed but as a general rule:
• In a good sized plastic cup mix some water, paint and a good squirt of washing up liquid together.
• Place the cup on a shallow plastic plate or tray. This is necessary to catch the bubbles that will no doubt flow over.
• Place one end of a straw into the liquid and gently blow to create some bubbles so that they reach the top.
• Lay some watercolour paper or a ceramic over the cup to gain an imprint of the bubbles as they pop.
• Repeat as often as you like.
• Allow to dry then use as required.
• Repeat with more colours if desired.
• If using a ceramic don’t forget to do the other side.
What paint to use for bubble painting?
The best paint to use for bubble art is something that can withstand having water and detergent added such as our mixed water-based poster paints but you can experiment with other paints too.
Have you seen our ready mixed pearlised and glitter liquid poster paints? They are ideal for seascapes or underwater themes or this adorable Bubble Painted Whale.
Top Tip
It is vital that the bubbles reach the top of the cup.
If they don’t you won’t get a good imprint and any that you do see may appear too pale. To overcome this add some more water and a little more detergent to the cup, mix well and try blowing bubbles again.
Gently blow bubbles into the mixture
Lay some watercolour paper or a ceramic over the cup to gain an imprint of the bubbles as they pop.
Why is bubble painting good for kids?
We always say children learn better whilst having fun and we think that bubble art painting a great way to do both as there are so many benefits. For younger children it offers the opportunity to develop their fine motor skills. Learning to blow and aim the bubbles at a specific place also enhances coordination and respiratory awareness but it is more than that. It’s fun, encourages creativity, promotes discussion and laughter and can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities.
Bubble painting for kids is such a fun activity, and you can create some really eye-catching designs. How about Easter-themed ceramic hanging eggs; or this colourful St Patrick’s Day Shamrock Bubble Painting Bunting.
Painting with bubbles really is a lot of fun. The possibilities are endless and no two pictures will ever look the same. Make sure to share photos of your bubble art painting with us on our social media platforms and follow us for lots of hints and tips of other art projects and ideas you could try.
This painting activity is so easy for kids for all ages. There’s so much fun to be had with a simple straw, paint and washing up liquid! Watch as the bubbles explode onto the paper. We have more bubble painting ideas over at our Creative Station.
