Top Tempera Paints for Classroom and Home Art Projects
For most classrooms and parents, the Sargent Art 16-Color Washable Tempera Paint Set stands out as the top pick. It offers bright, opaque colors that wash out of fabric easily, which is a major advantage for messy projects. Its main limitation is that the bottles are small, so for large art classes you may need multiple sets.
Tempera paints are a staple in schools and homes because they are affordable, versatile, and easy to clean up. Whether you are a teacher stocking an art room or a parent setting up a craft table, choosing the right set can make a big difference.
This guide reviews seven of the best tempera paint sets available on Amazon, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. We considered factors like pigment quality, bottle design, and how well they wash out of clothes and surfaces.
Our top picks
Sargent Art 16-Color Washable Tempera Paint Set
This set from Sargent Art includes 16 vibrant colors in 8-ounce bottles. The paint is thick and creamy, ideal for poster work and crafts. Users report that it washes out of most fabrics with ease, making it a favorite among teachers.
Pros
- Vibrant, opaque colors
- Washes out of clothes easily
- Good value for the number of colors
Cons
- Bottles are small for big projects
- Some colors may be more watery than others
Crayola Washable Tempera Paint Set, 16 oz., 12 Colors
Crayola is a trusted name in children’s art supplies. This set includes 12 large 16-ounce bottles of washable tempera paint. The colors are bright and consistent, and the paint is designed to wash out of skin and most fabrics. Teachers appreciate the easy-pour bottles.
Pros
- Large bottles for frequent use
- Bright, true-to-color pigments
- Washable formula
Cons
- More expensive per set
- Limited color variety compared to 16-color sets
Prang Ready-to-Use Tempera Paint, 16 oz., Set of 8
Prang tempera paints are known for their rich, saturated pigments and smooth consistency. This set of 8 includes basic colors plus earth tones. The paint dries to a matte finish and is non-toxic. It is thicker than many other brands, providing good coverage.
Pros
- Exceptional color payoff
- Thick consistency that doesn’t drip
- Good for detailed work
Cons
- Only 8 colors in set
- Washability is not as strong as washable formulas
Colorations Simply Washable Tempera Paint, 16 oz., Set of 6
Colorations offers a no-frills tempera paint set that delivers good quality at a lower price. The six primary and secondary colors are perfect for mixing. The paint is washable and glides smoothly onto paper. Users note that it may be slightly thinner than premium brands.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Simple color selection for mixing
- Washable formula
Cons
- Colors may be less vibrant
- Paint can separate if not shaken well
Sax True Flow Washable Tempera Paint, 8 oz., 12 Colors
Sax True Flow paints come in convenient squeeze bottles with a flip-top cap, making them easy to control and distribute. The paint is vibrant and washes out well. This set includes 12 colors, each in an 8-ounce bottle. It is a reliable choice for art educators.
Pros
- Easy-to-use squeeze bottles
- Good color selection
- Washable and non-toxic
Cons
- Smaller bottles may run out quickly
- Some users report caps cracking
Mondo Llama Washable Tempera Paint Sticks, 10 Count
Mondo Llama paint sticks are a twist-up alternative to traditional liquid tempera. They are dry to the touch but apply smoothly on paper. Ideal for young children who cannot handle brushes. The colors are vivid and washable from hands and clothing. This set includes 10 assorted colors.
Pros
- No brushes or water needed
- Mess-free application
- Great for on-the-go art
Cons
- Not suitable for large surfaces
- Limited color blending ability
Faber-Castell Creative Studio Tempera Paint, 12 Colors, 16 oz.
Faber-Castell’s tempera paint set is designed for artists who demand high pigmentation and durability. The paint is highly opaque and dries to a velvety matte finish. It comes in 12 classic colors, each in a generous 16-ounce bottle. The paint is certified non-toxic.
Pros
- High pigment concentration
- Smooth, even application
- Long-lasting color
Cons
- Higher price point
- Not washable, requires soap and water
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Color Count | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sargent Art 16-Color Washable Tempera Paint Set | 16 assorted colors | Classroom use and parents who want washable colors | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Crayola Washable Tempera Paint Set, 16 oz., 12 Colors | 12 colors | Schools and large group projects | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Prang Ready-to-Use Tempera Paint, 16 oz., Set of 8 | 8 colors | Artists and older children needing rich colors | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Colorations Simply Washable Tempera Paint, 16 oz., Set of 6 | 6 basic colors | Budget-conscious buyers and daycare centers | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Sax True Flow Washable Tempera Paint, 8 oz., 12 Colors | 12 colors | Teachers who prefer squeeze bottles | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Mondo Llama Washable Tempera Paint Sticks, 10 Count | 10 colors | Mess-free painting and travel | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | Faber-Castell Creative Studio Tempera Paint, 12 Colors, 16 oz. | 12 colors | Serious hobbyists and professional artists | 8.3 | Check price |
How to choose
Frequently asked questions
What is tempera paint used for?
Tempera paint is used for poster making, school art projects, and crafts. It is suitable for paper, cardboard, and poster board. It dries to a matte finish and is not permanent on fabric, making it a safe choice for kids.
Is tempera paint washable?
Many tempera paints are labeled washable, meaning they can be cleaned from most surfaces with water and mild soap. Non-washable tempera requires more effort to remove, so check the label if washability is important.
How do you clean up tempera paint?
For washable tempera, use warm soapy water to clean brushes, hands, and surfaces. For paint on clothing, rinse with cold water before washing. For non-washable paint, you may need a stain remover.
Can tempera paint be used on skin?
Tempera paint is generally non-toxic and safe for skin, but it is not designed for body painting. It may cause irritation for sensitive skin. Always wash it off promptly after use.
How long does tempera paint last?
Unopened tempera paint can last for years. Once opened, it can last for several months if stored properly. Keep the containers sealed when not in use to prevent drying out.
What is the difference between tempera and acrylic paint?
Tempera is water-based and washes away with water, while acrylic is water-resistant when dry. Acrylic is more permanent and adheres to many surfaces. Tempera is cheaper and more suitable for children.
Can tempera paint be mixed with water?
Yes, tempera paint can be thinned with water for a more transparent effect. However, adding too much water reduces opacity and may cause the paint to become runny.
Are tempera paints safe for toddlers?
Most tempera paints are non-toxic and safe for children, but toddlers may put things in their mouths. Always supervise and choose paints labeled ‘non-toxic’ and ‘child-safe.’
The verdict
After comparing these seven products, the Sargent Art 16-Color Washable Tempera Paint Set is the best choice for most buyers. It combines a wide range of colors, excellent washability, and a reasonable price. For classrooms, the Crayola Washable Tempera Paint Set is a strong alternative due to its larger bottles and trusted brand. If you need the highest color intensity, the Prang set is worth the investment. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the age of the users and the scale of your projects.
