Set Up a Kids' Drawing Corner in Any Size Home
A kids' drawing corner doesn't need much space. Learn how to set one up in any home, with the right surface, light, storage and supplies.
A kids' drawing corner needs four things: a comfortable surface at the right height, good light, easy-to-reach supplies and a place to display art. It can fit in a corner of the kitchen, a closet or a shelf, and it makes kids draw far more often.
Kids draw more when drawing is easy to start. A dedicated corner removes the barriers: no clearing the table, no hunting for pencils.
The surface
- A small table and chair at the right height, or
- A spot at the kitchen table with a booster or footrest, or
- A wall easel for standing art.
See the best drawing posture for height tips.
The light
Natural light from a window is ideal. Add a lamp for evenings. Position light to avoid shadows from the drawing hand.
The supplies
Keep it simple and accessible:
- A cup of sharpened pencils
- Crayons or colored pencils
- An eraser and sharpener
- Paper and a sketchbook
- A couple of drawing books
Paper on hand
Running out of paper ends drawing sessions. Keep a stack and a sketchbook ready. The How to Draw: Sketchbook gives kids blank pages made to go with the How to Draw books, so practice and new ideas always have a home.
Storage
- Open containers kids can reach
- Labels with pictures for young kids
- A folder or box for finished drawings
Display
A corkboard, string with clips or a section of wall shows kids their art matters. Rotate drawings regularly. See displaying kids' art at home.
Small space ideas
- A rolling cart
- A shelf with a fold-down surface
- A caddy that moves to the kitchen table
Questions parents ask
How do I set up a drawing area for kids?
Choose a comfortable surface at the right height, add good light, keep supplies within reach and include a place to display art.
What supplies should be in a kids' art corner?
Pencils, crayons or colored pencils, an eraser, a sharpener, paper, a sketchbook and a few drawing books.
Can I make an art corner in a small space?
Yes. A rolling cart, a wall shelf or a portable caddy can create an art station in very little space.
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