Try this fun and easy rubber band printing activity for kids! A hands-on art project using simple materials to make colorful prints.
Updated June 2025
Printmaking is a great way to engage artists of all ages.
There’s something exciting about lifting the paper and seeing your print appear—it’s a little surprise every time. The textures, lines, and patterns don’t always come out exactly as you expect, and that’s what makes printmaking so fun and creative.
The best part? You don’t need any special tools or pricey supplies to get started. This tutorial will walk you through a simple rubber band printing activity using just three things you probably already have at home: cardboard, rubber bands, and paint. It’s an easy and engaging art project that’s perfect for kids.
Learn how easy it is to create custom designed prints and patterns.
You can trim the cardboard to whatever size works for you. We used approximate 5” x 5” square cuts of cardboard.
Wrap the rubber bands around the cardboard
Experiment with thick and thin rubber bands or think about creating a pattern by how far you space your rubber bands apart.
Paint the rubber bands
Be sure to give the rubber bands a good thick coat of paint. You can dip your stamp in the paint or use a roller or brayer to roll it on.
Make your print
Turn the cardboard over and press it down on top of a blank sheet of paper. Press down and rub your hands over the entire cardboard shape.
Lift up the cardboard to reveal your print!
Repeat!
Try overlapping different colors, designs or even printing on different types of paper. Encourage your child to experiment and try new combinations.
Photo by Andrea Martelle
Rubber band printing is a fun way for kids to explore texture, repetition, and design while making something truly their own. Once you try it, you’ll see how easy and satisfying it is to create unique prints again and again.
Texture drawing is a fun and easy drawing activity allows you to explore different textures…
Jamie Hand
Jamie is a certified Art Instructor and a mother of three. Her website, Hand Made Kids Art, focuses on quick, easy and inspiring art activities to grow creative kids. It doesn’t matter if you only have 5 minutes or 20 minutes, you can find time to create art with your children. You can follow along with her art adventures at Hand Made Kids Art, Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Jamie also runs a free 6 week STEAM e-course (geared to the preschool age level but easily could be modified for older children).
