DIY Squishy Decorating for Kids

Make the design your own while starting with a blank already intended for decorating. This project focuses on color and character, rather than making an unknown filling or repairing a damaged toy.

Gather the right materials

• A purpose-made squishy blank sold for decorating.
• The paint or coating the blank's manufacturer specifies.
• A covered work surface and a tray for drying.
• The product instructions, including age guidance and curing time.

This is an older-child craft with adult help. The general ages 8+ suggestion does not override a more restrictive product label. Choose a decorating kit whose instructions clearly cover the materials you will use; ordinary paint or glue is not automatically suitable.

Plan a simple design

Draw the idea on paper first. A face, color blocks, or a simple pattern is enough. Let the child choose a design without adding small charms or loose filler. An adult checks the instructions and prepares the workspace before opening coatings.

Decorate and let it cure

Follow the kit's method for application, ventilation, drying, and cleanup. Work in the recommended layers and leave the blank on a tray for the full curing period. Do not squeeze it to test whether it is dry before the instructions allow handling.

Check the finished project

An adult checks the surface before play. Stop using it if it tears, crumbles, exposes filling, or the coating comes off. Keep materials and the finished craft away from children who mouth objects.

Make the next project different

Try a second paper design before buying another kit. Compare the shapes, expressions, or color combinations you imagined. For a project with ordinary craft supplies instead, try a paper texture collage.

Want to choose a ready-made toy? Explore the squishy toy guide.