Easy Crazy Hair Day Art: A Fun Straw-Painting Activity
In this post, we’ll walk you through a simple DIY art activity where kids use straws to blow paint across a canvas, creating wild and wacky hairstyles. It’s great for sensory play, color exploration, and developing fine motor skills.
Crazy Hair Day Project for Young Kids
Looking for a wild, colorful, and super fun art project to celebrate Crazy Hair Day? This straw-painting activity is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who love to get creative and a little messy! In this activity, children use straws to blow paint across a canvas or sheet of paper, creating vibrant, wacky hairstyles on a face they draw themselves (or with help).
It’s a fantastic way to encourage creativity, explore color mixing, and strengthen fine motor and oral motor skills—all while having a blast. With just a few simple materials like washable paint, straws, and paper, you can set up a playful, engaging experience that’s ideal for both classroom and home settings. Whether you’re a teacher, caregiver, or parent, this project is sure to spark smiles and giggles as kids watch their crazy hair creations come to life!
Materials You’ll Need
- Washable paint (bright colors work best)
- Water to thin the paint slightly
- Plastic or paper straws (cut in half for easier use)
- White canvas or thick paper
- Markers
- Aprons or old clothes (it gets messy!)
- Drop cloth or newspaper to protect your surface
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s the easy instructions to make this fun craft on crazy hair day!
Step 1: Prep the Canvas
Paint your canvas any color you want! You can let your child do this part using some of our fun ways to paint here.
Then, let the canvas dry completely. Next, have your child draw a ‘self-portrait’ of their own head (and add googly eyes if you want). Leave space at the top for your child’s hair.
Step 2: Mix the Paint
Thin the paint slightly with water so it moves easily when blown. Pour small dots at the top of the head drawing.
Step 3: Let the Blowing Begin!
Next, grab a straw, then place it near the paper and blow through it to spread the color. It may take young kids a few tries to blow hard enough, so you may have to show them at the beginning.
You can even try layering different colors to make it even crazier! Encourage kids to experiment with direction and pressure.
Step 4: Let It Dry
Set aside to dry completely (preferably overnight).
Step 5: Display Their Masterpieces
Hang them up at home or a classroom Crazy Hair gallery! Your child will love seeing them on display.
Some Helpful Hints
- Have wipes or damp cloths nearby
- Use washable paint and cover surfaces ahead of time
- Let kids help with simple clean-up tasks — it teaches responsibility!
Crazy Hair Day is the perfect excuse to let loose and celebrate individuality. This straw-blown paint project gives every child the chance to express their unique sense of style… and have a blast doing it!
