What’s better than a burst of color to brighten your child’s day? Kids adore rainbows—their vibrant hues spark creativity and joy. Whether you’re looking for rainy-day projects or activities for a classroom, rainbow crafts are a fantastic way to combine fun and learning. They’re not just pretty; these crafts also help develop fine motor skills, introduce color theory, and ignite the imagination. Ready to dive into a world of color and fun?
This post will guide you through 17 delightful rainbow-themed crafts. From simple paper projects to dazzling creations with unique materials, there’s something for every age and skill level. Let’s get started!
1. Rainbow Paper Plate Spinner
Rainbow paper plate spinners are both fun to create and exciting to play with afterward. Start with a plain white paper plate and let your kids paint colorful rainbow segments across it. Once the paint dries, poke a small hole in the center, attach a brad with string, and spin away to watch the colors merge into a magical blur.
This craft introduces kids to the basics of color mixing in an interactive way. It’s mesmerizing to watch the vibrant colors come together, and kids will enjoy experimenting with different designs.

2. DIY Rainbow Pasta Necklaces
Transform mealtime staples into colorful jewelry with rainbow pasta necklaces. Dye dry pasta like penne or ziti using a mix of food coloring and vinegar in a ziplock bag. Let the pasta dry before threading it onto string or yarn to create a unique and wearable rainbow.
Kids can practice their hand-eye coordination and create patterns with the colorful pasta. This project is simple, engaging, and leaves plenty of room for creativity.

3. Puffy Paint Rainbow
A puffy paint rainbow is a sensory delight for kids. Mix equal parts shaving cream and glue to make puffy paint, adding food coloring to create different hues. Draw the outline of a rainbow on sturdy paper and let kids fill in each segment with the vibrant, textured paint.
The squishy feel of puffy paint makes this craft enjoyable for little hands. Once it dries, the result is a beautiful 3D rainbow that kids will be proud to display.

4. Rainbow Handprint Art
Turn your child’s handprints into a colorful keepsake with this simple craft. Paint each of their fingers a different color and press their hands onto a canvas or paper. Add a cute quote, name, and date to make it extra special.
This project is quick, easy, and perfect for creating lasting memories. It’s a great way to capture a moment in time while letting kids explore colors and textures.

5. Paper Chain Rainbows
Paper chain rainbows are a timeless craft that’s simple yet engaging. Cut strips of colored paper, loop them into circles, and secure each loop to form a chain. Connect the loops in the order of a rainbow to create a stunning decoration.
This craft helps kids practice fine motor skills and recognize color sequences. It’s also versatile, making it perfect as a standalone project or part of a larger art display.

6. Rainbow Sensory Bottles
Create a calming sensory experience with rainbow bottles. Fill an empty plastic bottle with a mixture of water, clear glue, and food coloring. Add glitter or small beads for extra sparkle, and tightly seal the lid.
These bottles are fascinating for kids to shake and explore, making them ideal for sensory play. They’re also soothing and can be used as a tool for relaxation.

7. Rainbow Paper Collage
Give old scraps of paper a second life with a rainbow paper collage. Collect colorful scraps or pages from magazines and let kids glue them onto a larger sheet in the shape of a rainbow.
This eco-friendly craft is great for teaching patience and planning. It encourages kids to think creatively while exploring the beauty of recycled materials.

8. Rainbow Scratch Art
Scratch art adds an element of surprise to crafting. Cover a sheet of cardstock with rainbow-colored crayon layers, then paint over it with black tempera paint mixed with dish soap. Once dry, kids can use toothpicks to scratch designs, revealing the vibrant colors beneath.
This craft is thrilling for kids as they uncover their rainbow creations. It’s a fantastic way to combine creativity and experimentation.
9. Tissue Paper Rainbow Suncatchers
Brighten up your windows with tissue paper suncatchers. Cut a piece of clear contact paper into a rainbow shape and let kids stick small squares of tissue paper onto the sticky side. Seal it with another piece of contact paper and hang it up.
The sunlight streaming through the suncatcher creates a beautiful, colorful effect. It’s a wonderful way to bring art to life with natural light.

10. Rainbow Felt Garland
Decorate your space with a charming rainbow felt garland. Cut felt into shapes like circles or hearts in different rainbow colors, then string them together on twine.
Hang the garland in a doorway or around a room for a pop of color. This craft is perfect for slightly older kids and makes a beautiful decoration.

11. Cloud and Rainbow Mobile
Create a dreamy mobile to hang in a nursery or playroom. Attach colorful ribbons to a wooden hoop or wire in the order of the rainbow. Add fluffy cotton balls above the ribbons to resemble clouds.
Hang the mobile from the ceiling for a whimsical touch. This craft combines sensory materials and design, making it a favorite for parents and kids alike.

12. Rainbow Cupcake Liner Flowers
Cupcake liners transform into vibrant blooms in this simple craft. Flatten and layer liners in rainbow colors, securing them in the center with glue or a brad. Add a green pipe cleaner as the stem.
These flowers are great for table decorations or gifts. Kids love creating these cheerful and colorful designs.

13. Salt Dough Rainbow Ornaments
For a keepsake craft, salt dough rainbows are a delightful choice. Mix salt, flour, and water to make the dough. Shape it into rainbows and bake until hardened.
Once cool, paint the ornaments in vibrant colors. These can be used as decorations, gifts, or cherished keepsakes.

14. Watercolor Rainbow Resist Art
Combine science and art with watercolor rainbow resist projects. Draw a rainbow on paper using a white crayon. Paint over it with watercolors, and watch as the crayon resists the paint, revealing a hidden design.
This simple craft is an excellent way to teach kids cause and effect while encouraging their artistic side. The results are always magical.

15. Pom-Pom Rainbow Craft
Pom-pom rainbows are soft, colorful, and fun to make. Glue colorful pom-poms onto cardstock in the shape of a rainbow. Add cotton balls at the ends for fluffy clouds.
This craft is ideal for younger kids and can double as charming room décor. It’s a tactile activity that keeps little hands busy and creative.

16. Rainbow Slime
Take slime to the next level with a rainbow twist. Make separate batches of slime in each rainbow color using clear glue and liquid starch. Layer them together to create a stretchy, vibrant masterpiece.
Kids enjoy both the process of making and playing with the slime. It’s a sensory experience that’s as colorful as it is fun.

17. Rainbow Wind Chimes
Transform everyday items into a musical and colorful decoration. Use a stick or a circular base to attach strings of beads in rainbow colors. Hang metal pieces like bottle caps or bells at the bottom.
The wind chime not only adds a burst of color but also creates soft, melodious sounds. This craft is perfect for older kids who enjoy combining art and music.

Conclusion: Let the Colors Shine
Crafting rainbows isn’t just about creating something pretty—it’s a way to inspire imagination, teach valuable skills, and spend quality time together. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or babysitter, these 17 rainbow crafts are sure to bring smiles and a splash of color to any day.
So, which craft will you try first? Gather your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the magical world of rainbow crafting. Let those colors shine!