Rainy Day Art: Crayon Resist Rain Painting for Kids

This post may contain affiliate links.

Need a fun rainy day activity for kids? Try rain painting! This simple rain painting art project lets the weather become part of the creative process. For a different twist, we did a crayon resist version. Kids draw designs with black outlines, add colorful washable pigments, and then place the artwork outside in a light rain shower to let the raindrops blend, drip, and transform the colors.

We tested different supplies and discovered that black crayon outlines + washable markers create beautiful results. The black lines stay bold while the rain turns the colors into soft abstract washes.

This is one of our favorite rainy day art activities for kids because it combines art, science, weather observation, and creativity all in one. Kids think this one is so much fun, too! We have done this a few times over the years and I thought it was time for some updated pictures. 

What Is Rain Painting?

Rain painting is an outdoor art activity where children begin an artwork indoors, then allow real raindrops to finish the painting. As rain lands on the paper, the water spreads pigment, creates drips, mixes colors, and forms one-of-a-kind patterns.

No two rain paintings are ever exactly the same.

Try Black Crayon Resist Outlines

This is optional, but fun to try! Using black crayon outlines gives structure to the artwork while allowing the colors to move freely in the rain. If you want it to be more abstract, feel free to skip this step. 

Why it works:

• Crayon is waxy and resists water
• Black lines stay visible after rain
• Shapes remain clear even when colors blend
• Finished art looks bold and modern
• Easier than markers for younger kids

Think of it like stained glass meets watercolor rain art.

Supplies Needed

• Thick white paper, cardstock, or watercolor paper (our favorite to use)
• Black crayon
• Washable markers, watercolor pencils, or watercolor paints
• Cookie sheet or tray
• Light rainy weather (or spray bottles to represent rain)
• Flat drying surface indoors

How to Make Rain Paintings

Step 1: Draw Black Crayon Outlines

Use a black crayon to draw simple shapes such as:

• Umbrellas
• Flowers
• Clouds
• Raindrops
• Rainbows
• Hearts
• Fish
• Houses
• Trees
• Abstract art is great, too! 

Keep outlines thick and clear.

Step 2: Add Color

Use one or more of these supplies:

• Washable Markers- Brightest and fastest results.
• Watercolor Pencils- Great for detailed drawings, but don’t bleed and run as much as other mediums
• Watercolor Paints- Soft dreamy blends.

Color inside or around the outlined shapes.

Step 3: Let the Rain Paint

Place artwork outside during a light drizzle or gentle rain for 15–60 seconds.

Watch how the rain:

• dissolves pigment
• moves colors
• creates drips
• blends shades
• forms patterns

Bring artwork in before paper becomes soaked.

Step 4: Dry Flat

Lay the artwork flat on towels or a drying rack. Once dry, admire the beautiful rain-made textures. 

Rain Painting Science for Kids

This project also teaches science concepts.

• Water Solubility: Some pigments dissolve when rain hits them.
• Gravity: Water drips downward carrying color
• Absorption: Paper fibers soak up water and pigment.
• Weather Observation: Kids notice drizzle, drops, wind, and storm patterns.

Rain Painting Ideas to Try

1. Umbrella Scene

Black umbrella outlines with rainbow drips.

2. Flower Garden

Flowers outlined in black with blended petals.

3. Storm Clouds

Gray clouds with blue streaking rain.

4. Rainbow Burst

Lines of color spreading outward.

5. Name Art

Write names in crayon and let color flow around them.

Tips for Success

• Light rain works better than heavy rain
• Use thick paper
• Do several sheets at once
• Keep designs simple
• Bright colors photograph best
• Use a tray for carrying outside

More Rainy Day Activities for Kids

If you enjoyed this project, also try:

• Homemade Thermometer Science Experiment
• Make a cloud in a jar
• Rainy Day Science Experiment for Kids: Filtering and Measuring Rainfall
• How to Make Cloud Dough
• Cloud Formations- With Printable Chart

Rainy weather doesn’t have to ruin outdoor plans—it can become part of the art. This rain painting for kids activity turns an ordinary rainy day into a memorable hands-on learning experience.

Grab some paper, crayons, and colors, then let the sky help paint. Be sure to jump in a few puddles while you are at it! 

FAQ

Can I use markers for rain painting?

Yes. Washable markers often create the brightest, most dramatic results.

Does black crayon wash away?

No. Crayon is wax-based and resists water, so outlines stay visible.

What if it is raining hard?

Use a covered porch edge or leave paper out only briefly.

Can preschoolers do this?

Absolutely. Use simple shapes and washable supplies.