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Five-year-olds want to make big art fast — not fumble with water cups or wait for glue to dry. The real trick is finding supplies that keep the fun flowing without leaving dye on the sofa or frustration in little hands. This guide cuts through the craft aisle noise to washable, non-toxic supplies built for actual preschool and kindergarten life.
I’m Rikta — the founder and writer behind FitlyFast. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
Below you will find the top-rated, mess-free options to help you choose the best art supplies for 5 year olds that fit your child’s creative style and your tolerance for cleanup.
Quick Picks
- Crayola Super Tips Marker Set (100ct) — Best Overall
- Ellinjan Tempera Paint Sticks For Kids (24 Colors) — Most Mess-Free
- Crayola Ultra Clean Washable Markers (40ct) — Classroom Favorite
- Crayola Art Set for Kids (125pcs) — Complete Studio
- beefunni Unicorn Washable Markers Set (48pcs) — Travel Ready
How To Choose The Best Art Supplies For 5 Year Olds
At five, a child is usually past the full-mouth-taste-test stage but still developing the small hand muscles that control a pencil or a paintbrush. The right art supplies match that stage: easy to grip, tough to break, and simple to clean up. Here are the three deciding factors.
Washability Is Not Optional
“Washable” on the label means the maker tested the ink or paint to come off common surfaces with soap and water — but not all washable formulas are equal. Crayola’s Ultra Clean line, for instance, is formulated to wash from skin, most fabrics, and even painted walls. A paint stick or tempera paint that washes off skin in seconds makes a huge difference when art time ends and the dinner bell rings.
Grip and Control Matter More Than the Count
A 100-count marker set sounds like a dream, but five-year-olds often struggle to find, cap, and uncap that many tiny barrels. Look for contoured grips or twist-up barrels that a small hand can manage without help. The Ellinjan paint sticks, for example, use a twist-up design and a barrel sized for toddler palms — no caps to lose, no tips to crush.
Versus Crayons, Versus Markers, Versus Paint
Crayons are classic and cheap, but they break under heavy pressure. Markers deliver bright, bold color but dry out if the cap is left off. Paint sticks bridge the gap: they go on smooth like a marker, dry in seconds, and never need a water cup. Tempera paint in no-spill cups is the best choice for real finger-painting or brush work — just make sure the kit includes the cups and brushes so you do not have to buy them separately.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Item Count | Item Dimensions | Ink Base / Material | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crayola Super Tips Marker Set (100ct) | Precision coloring & variety | 100 markers | 0.43 x 0.43 x 6.69 in | Water | $15.29Amazon |
| Ellinjan Tempera Paint Sticks (24ct) | Mess-free painting for small hands | 24 sticks | — | Wax | $16.99Amazon |
| Crayola Ultra Clean Washable Markers (40ct) | Bright, bold classroom-ready marks | 40 markers | 0.59 x 0.59 x 5.35 in | Water | $14.99$16.99Amazon |
| Crayola Art Set for Kids (125pcs) | All-in-one creative starter kit | 125 pieces | 13.06 x 11.06 x 4.5 in | Water / Clay | $20.50$24.01Limited time dealAmazon |
| beefunni Unicorn Washable Markers Set (48pcs) | Travel-friendly themed gift | 48 pieces | — | Water | $22.49$24.99Limited time dealAmazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Crayola Super Tips Marker Set (100ct)
$15.29as of Jul 16, 8:19 AMThe color encyclopedia that grows with your child from preschool doodles to bullet journals.
This set gives you 100 different colors versus the Ellinjan paint sticks’ 24 colors, so a five-year-old has a shade for every dragon, rainbow, or family portrait. The markers have a fine point (0.43 x 0.43 x 6.69 inches per barrel) that can make both thick and thin lines depending on the angle, which means one marker does double duty for big fills and tiny details. They are washable and non-toxic, made for kids ages 3 and up.
Buyers report buying these for bullet journaling so they had access to more colors — proof of how versatile the set is beyond just preschool art. But a five-year-old won’t be organizing them neatly; the markers come packed in four smaller boxes inside the main box, so expect some rattling and searching for the right cap. Still, at roughly for 100 markers, the value is tough to beat.
The Crayola Ultra Clean 40ct measures 0.59 x 0.59 x 5.35 inches per barrel, while the Super Tips measure 0.43 x 0.43 x 6.69 inches. The Ultra Clean line is built for broader, faster coverage, while the Super Tips are better for deliberate coloring. For a child who likes to color inside the lines, the Super Tips are the better choice.
Reasons to pick this set
- 100 colors give class-leading variety for creative projects.
- Fine point makes both thick and thin lines with one tip.
- Washable formula comes off skin and most fabrics easily.
Drawbacks to know
- No color labels or numbers — you have to match by cap.
- Small box compartments allow markers to shift and rattle.
- Tips wear down faster if heavy pressure is applied.
Best for: Kids who love to color with precision and want every shade they can imagine, plus adults who will also borrow them for journaling or craft projects.
Skip if: Your child tends to leave caps off or prefers broad, fast coverage — the Ultra Clean 40ct is a more forgiving pick for rough handling.
2. Ellinjan Tempera Paint Sticks For Kids (24 Colors)
$16.99as of Jul 16, 8:19 AMThe twist-up paint stick that dries in 90 seconds and washes off with soap and water.
If the idea of prying open paint pots and wrangling brushes makes you twitch, these paint sticks are your solution. Just twist the bottom, and a solid tempera paint stick emerges from the barrel — no water, no brushes, no palettes. The 24 colors are bright and go on like a creamy marker. The formula is made to dry quickly in about 90 seconds, so a masterpiece does not smudge when little hands move to the next page.
Owners mention that the paint sticks dry quickly on projects and go on more like a crayon, which is perfect for a toddler. The barrel is sized for small hands — each stick weighs 0.21 ounces and measures 6 milliliters of paint in a sturdy, easy-grip body. Because they are wax-based, the texture is different from a marker; customers note it feels more like a wax crayon, not soft pastel, and blending is limited unless you add a little water.
Unlike the Crayola Super Tips markers (100 colors), the Ellinjan set tops out at 24 colors — a much tighter palette. But for a five-year-old who just needs primary and secondary shades plus a few brights, 24 is plenty, and the mess-free cleanup makes this the easiest option for the whole family.
Strengths at a glance
- Twist-up design means no caps to lose and no tips to break.
- Quick-drying in 90 seconds prevents smudged artwork.
- Washes off skin, clothes, glass, and tiles with soap and water.
Trade-offs
- Color range is limited to 24 — fewer than most marker sets.
- Texture is wax-like rather than soft pastel; not great for blending.
- Colors are less vibrant than some acrylic or liquid paints.
Reach for these if… You want the cleanest, fastest-drying painting option that requires zero set-up or water cups — perfect for car rides, restaurants, or quick creative breaks.
Look elsewhere if… Your child wants a huge variety of shades or loves the feel of liquid paint and brushes.
3. Crayola Ultra Clean Washable Markers (40ct)
$14.99$16.99as of Jul 16, 8:19 AMThe broad-line workhorse teachers trust to survive a roomful of five-year-olds.
These are the markers you likely had in your own kindergarten classroom. The 40-count set offers broad tips (0.59 x 0.59 x 5.35 inches per barrel) that lay down a thick, even stripe of color fast — perfect for covering large spaces in a coloring book or poster project. Unlike the Super Tips, which are built for precision, these are built for speed and durability. The ink is water-based and specifically labeled “Ultra Clean” to wash easily from skin, washable clothing, and even most painted walls.
Reviewers point out the markers are very easy to clean but still bring vibrant colors. Parents appreciate that a small child can distinguish different tones within the 40-color range and pick favorites — one reviewer noted watching their child reject other markers in the same color family but different tones. The broad tip is forgiving for unsteady hands: you do not need perfect control to get a satisfying result.
Compared to the 100-count Super Tips (0.43 x 0.43 x 6.69 inches), the Ultra Clean markers are wider and shorter, so they feel sturdier in a five-year-old’s grip. They also cost less per marker in this 40-count, though you give up 60 colors and the fine-point flexibility. For a child who is still building hand strength, the broader barrel is actually easier to hold.
Pros worth noting
- Broad tip lays down fast, even color on large areas.
- Ultra Clean formula washes off skin, clothing, and walls.
- 40 colors offer solid variety without overwhelming a young child.
Cons to consider
- Not ideal for detailed line work or small coloring spaces.
- Fewer color options than the 100ct Super Tips set.
- Round body can roll off a desk if cap is not replaced.
A solid pick for: Classroom supplies, group projects, and kids who prefer bold, fast coverage over intricate coloring — the broad tip makes them the most forgiving marker for a five-year-old’s first independent drawings.
Consider something else if: Your child is already showing a preference for detailed, inside-the-lines coloring and would benefit from a fine point like the Super Tips.
4. Crayola Art Set for Kids (125pcs)
$20.50$24.01Limited time dealas of Jul 16, 8:19 AMEverything a young artist needs in one box — crayons, markers, paint, clay, and two coloring books.
This is the gift that covers the whole hobby. Inside the reusable storage box measuring 13.06 x 11.06 x 4.5 inches and weighing 6 pounds, you get 96 crayons, 12 Ultra-Clean markers, 6 washable 2-ounce paints, 4 brushes, 4 tubs of Model Magic clay (red, blue, yellow, white), and two giant coloring books with 288 pages each. The kit is designed for ages 5 and up, and all components are safe and non-toxic.
One buyer mentioned that her toddler enjoys using this and it keeps him busy — even four months later, everything is still being used. Another buyer highlighted that the durable box with a handle makes cleanup simple: just put everything back inside and close the lid. It is also compact enough to be a travel activity; one family used it on a plane and in a hotel to entertain the kids.
The Crayola Art Set does not include any paint sticks or specialty markers, so it competes more with buying individual packs than with the Ellinjan sticks. But if you want one kit that covers crayons, markers, paint, and clay so you do not have to shop five different products, this is the clear winner. The 125 pieces mean you are set for months of daily art time.
What makes it stand out
- One purchase replaces half a dozen individual art supplies — crayons, markers, paint, clay, books.
- Durable storage box with handle keeps everything organized and portable.
- Includes Model Magic clay for 3D sculpting, not just 2D drawing.
What it lacks
- Marker count is limited to 12 — fewer than a dedicated marker set.
- Paints are 2 oz each, so heavy users will run out faster.
- No paint sticks or specialty dry-erase elements.
Grab this if you want… One single kit that covers drawing, painting, and sculpting so a five-year-old can explore multiple media without needing separate purchases — ideal for a birthday gift or starting a home art station.
Pass on this if… Your child already has a good supply of crayons and markers and specifically needs a deeper paint or marker collection instead of the variety pack approach.
5. beefunni Unicorn Washable Markers Set (48pcs)
$22.49$24.99Limited time dealas of Jul 16, 8:19 AMA glittery unicorn case packed with markers, crayons, gel pens, and stickers that travels everywhere.
This set leans hard into the unicorn theme: a hot pink glitter case with shiny rainbows and a unicorn print, four zippered compartments, and a Velcro fastener. Inside are 48 pieces — 12 double-ended markers, 12 fine-tip brush markers, 9 scented glitter gel pens, 12 twistable crayons, and 20 unicorn stickers. The case measures lightweight at 0.61 kilograms and is designed for kids ages 4-8 years old.
Shoppers say that a 6-year-old granddaughter carries it all over and loves it. Another reviewer said it is smaller than expected but actually better — a compact size that is ideal for storage and travel. The markers are washable and made with water-based ink that is quick-drying and non-toxic. The line sizes are 0.5mm and 0.7mm, so the writing is fine enough for detailed coloring.
One owner reported the markers are cheap quality, which is a fair trade-off for the low price of the complete kit. Compared to the Crayola Super Tips (100ct, range), the beefunni set gives you more variety in media type (markers + crayons + gel pens + stickers) but fewer total markers and a less durable feel. If the unicorn theme makes your child actually want to color, the engagement value might beat higher-quality generic supplies.
Why it wins for travel
- All-in-one carrying case with handle — everything stays together and organized.
- Multiple media types (markers, crayons, gel pens) in one compact set.
- The unicorn-themed packaging makes it an notable gift for unicorn lovers.
Things to watch out for
- Markers are described as “cheap quality” by some buyers — not Crayola-tier durability.
- Gel pens may dry out or leak if not stored horizontally.
- The 48-piece count is a mix of tools, not 48 full markers.
Perfect for: A unicorn-obsessed child who needs a portable art kit for car rides, restaurants, or visiting grandma — the themed case makes it feel like a toy, not a chore.
skip it if: You prioritize marker durability and color vibrancy above packaging appeal — the Crayola Ultra Clean set will last longer and deliver truer colors.
6. The Mega Deals Kids Painting Set (10 Colors)
$29.99as of Jul 16, 8:19 AMThe full finger-painting setup — 10 colors, 10 no-spill cups, and 10 brushes — for one low price.
If your five-year-old wants the full sensory experience of real paint with brushes and fingers, this kit delivers everything you need in one bundle. You get 10 washable tempera paints in 2 oz bottles, 10 no-spill paint cups with airtight lids, and 10 paintbrushes sized for small hands. The kit weighs 1.15 kilograms and the box measures 9.5 x 3.7 x 10.3 inches — compact enough to stash in a cabinet and pull out for art time.
One parent reports that a 2.5-year-old uses it almost every day. Another reviewer loved the no-spill cups and that you can fill them and reattach the lid. The paint is water-based and washes off skin and most surfaces with a baby wipe — a practical detail for quick cleanups. The 10 colors include basic primaries and secondaries, which is plenty for color mixing experiments.
Unlike the Crayola Art Set (125pcs) which includes 2 oz paints plus crayons and clay, this kit is strictly a paint-focused set. You do not get markers or crayons — just paint, cups, and brushes. If the goal is true finger painting or brush painting without the mess of open cups, the no-spill lids are the standout feature that separates this from a generic paint set.
What works well
- No-spill cups with lids keep paint fresh and prevent tipping disasters.
- 10 washable tempera colors cover all the basics for early color mixing.
- Brushes are sized for toddler hands — easy to grip and control.
Limitations
- Only paint — no crayons, markers, or clay included.
- 2 oz per color runs out faster than a larger bottle set.
- The brushes are basic quality; if your child is serious about painting, you may want to upgrade them.
Pick this for: A child who is ready for real paint play — finger painting, brush work, and color mixing — but not yet responsible enough to manage open cups and separate containers. The no-spill lids make it a parent-friendly introduction to tempera paint.
Look elsewhere if: You need a complete art station with markers, crayons, and variety — the Crayola Art Set (125pcs) covers more ground from one box.