Easy Tape Resist Painting for Toddlers
Stick painter's tape in lines on paper before your toddler paints over everything — peel the tape off to reveal clean white lines underneath for a wow moment.
What You'll Need
- 1Painter's tape or masking tape
- 2Cardstock or thick paper
- 3Washable paint (2-3 colors)
- 4Paper plates
- 5Wide paintbrush
- 6Smock or old shirt
What You'll Need
Painter's tape or masking tape
Cardstock or thick paper (thin paper buckles under wet paint)
Washable paint in 2-3 colors
Paper plates for paint
Wide paintbrush
Smock or old shirt
How to Play
Stick strips of painter's tape across a piece of cardstock in lines, stripes, zigzags, or shapes. Make the design as simple or complex as you like.
Press the tape edges down firmly with your fingernail so paint will not seep underneath.
Set the paper on the table and put a smock on your toddler.
Pour washable paint onto plates and hand your toddler a wide brush. Wide brushes cover more area and are easier to grip.
Encourage your toddler to paint over the entire surface — tape and all. The goal is total coverage.
Once the paint is dry to the touch, help your toddler slowly peel off the tape strips. This is the magic moment.
The clean white lines appear underneath the paint. Your toddler just made abstract art with a crisp, professional finish.
Tips
Use painter's tape, not regular masking tape. It peels off cleanly without tearing the paper.
The reveal is the best part. Build it up — "What do you think is under the tape? Let us find out!"
For older toddlers, let them help place the tape before painting. They will not make straight lines and that is perfect.
This technique works beautifully for holiday cards. Tape a heart, tree, or star shape, paint over it, and peel for a custom card.
Let your toddler choose which colors to use. Even small choices like this build autonomy and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 20 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: painter's tape or masking tape, cardstock or thick paper, washable paint (2-3 colors), paper plates, wide paintbrush, and 1 more item.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 1-2 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This is an easy activity that requires minimal setup and supervision. Great for busy days or when you need something quick.
Ratings & Reviews
Sign in to leave a rating or review.
Add to Your Weekly Plan
Schedule this activity into your family's week. It takes about 20 min.
Free account required to save plans
Explore More
Love this activity?
Create a free account and add it to your weekly planner. Discover hundreds more activities matched to your child's age.