How to Make Your Own Milk Paint

Milk does a body good... but it also makes a great paint!

Milk paint is  versatile, eco-friendly, and non-toxic paint that you can easily make at home. This simplified version of milk paint is perfect for arts and crafts with kids.

What You Will Need:

• 1 tablespoon Nonfat Powdered Milk
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1 teaspoon Powdered Tempera Paint
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Small Plastic Containers with Lids

What You Do:

1. Combine powdered milk and water in a plastic container (such as a butter tub).
2. Mix milk and water and let stand until the bubbles are disappeared.
3. Add powdered tempera paint to the mixture to give your paint a color.
4. Repeat these steps for each color milk paint that you would like to make.
5. Once your paint is mixed, you're ready to start painting.
6. Milk paint can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

The Science:

Powdered milk is the primary binding agent in this milk paint. Casein is a protein in powdered milk that helps the paint adhere to surfaces and provides durability. The water acts as a solvent, dissolving the powdered milk and helping to create a smooth, consistent liquid that can be easily mixed with tempera paint. The tempera paint provides vibrant colors and enhances the binding properties of the paint.