DIY Sidewalk Chalk Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun, creative way to engage the kids and decorate your sidewalk, why try making your own colorful DIY sidewalk chalk?

Making your own sidewalk chalk is an easy DIY project that’s also a fantastic opportunity to create memories with the kids.

With this simple sidewalk chalk recipe, you can mix just a few ingredients like plaster, tempera paint, and water to create vibrant colors that bring your driveway and sidewalks to life.

This chalk is made into giant sticks, which is great for little hands to grab hold of, and perfect for pavements and patios. You can create a giant masterpiece and then let the rain wash it off.

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or trying your hand at homemade crafts for the first time, this guide to homemade sidewalk chalk will show you how to mix, mold, and make your very own chalk, giving you a summer is filled with creativity and fun.

Supplies Needed for DIY Sidewalk Chalk Paint Recipe

You will need (for 6 giant pieces)

3 A4 acetate sheets
Scissors
Duct tape
Large lump of play dough
Tray
9oz (240g) plaster of Paris
Small bowls
Metal spoons
Water
Poster paint in 6 colours

So the 3 actual ingredients for this recipe are plaster of Paris, water and paint. The other supplies listed are tools to help you with making. So this is a diy sidewalk chalk paint without cornstarch.

Safety Note: Plaster of Paris heats up as it hardens. An adult should always do the mixing and pouring.
Do not put into direct contact with skin.

How to Make DIY Sidewalk Chalk for Kids Step by Step

1 For the moulds, cut out six acetate squares each 5 x 5in (12 x 12cm). Roll each square into a tube, leaving an overlap of about 1in (2cm). Tape the edge to seal using your duct tape. This is to create the tubes that we will use for the giant chalks.

2 Roll out a 1in (2cm) thick circle of play dough. Transfer it onto a tray or board and push in the upright acetate tubes. This is to hold them steady ready to pour in the mixture.

3 For each chalk stick, measure 1½oz (40g) plaster of Paris into a bowl.

In another bowl or a cup, mix 2fl.oz (60ml) water with 1 tbsp paint, using any color of your choice. Add this to the plaster of Paris and mix thoroughly.

4 Then spoon the mixture into a tube. Once full, use the end of the spoon to prod away any gaps and air bubbles in the mixture.

5 Repeat steps 3 and 4 to make the other five chalks. Set them aside to harden overnight, then remove the acetate and allow them to fully dry. The chalk will be usable, but probably still a little damp, after 24 hours. For best results, leave for a couple of days.

After exploring the joyful process of making your own sidewalk chalk, you’ll see just how simple and rewarding it can be to transform a few basic ingredients into a canvas of possibilities.

This easy, three-ingredient recipe not only saves money but also allows you to customize colors, making each piece of chalk uniquely yours.

As the sun casts long shadows and the sidewalks become galleries of vibrant art, you’ll love seeing the colorful creations that reflect the imaginative spirits of your children.

So, grab your molds, mix up some homemade chalk paint, and prepare for a summer filled with delightful sidewalk expressions and endless fun.

The best summer activities are those that leave traces of joy long after the sun has set.

More Fun Summer Projects for Kids

Looking for more ways to keep your kids entertained and engaged this summer? Check out our collection of fun summer projects!

From creative crafts to exciting outdoor activities, we’ve compiled a variety of ideas to fill those long summer days with laughter and learning. Explore these engaging options to keep the creativity flowing all season long.

If you find these projects inspiring, don’t forget to share the fun! Pin this post on Pinterest or share it on your social media to help other families discover these wonderful summer activities.

Sharing is caring, and a little pin can go a long way in spreading joy and creativity!

diy chalk recipe for kids with just 3 ingredients

Published online with permission from GMC Publications, The Big Book of 100 Little Activities © 2016 by Laura Minter and Tia Williams, RRP £14.99. Available from all good bookshops and www.thegmcgroup.com.