The 10 Best Sidewalk Chalks
This wiki has been updated 21 times since it was first published in December of 2018. If you want to encourage your kids' creativity without them making a mess, without it costing you a fortune, and while getting them out from in front of their screens and into the open air, try a set of these affordable sidewalk chalks. Here, you'll find options for both individuals and groups, and there are also kits geared toward specific interests and more elaborate designs. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Crayola Outdoor
2. Joyin Jumbo
3. Urban Infant Toddler
Editor's Notes
July 10, 2020:
Doodling with sidewalk chalk is a creative and fun way to spend an afternoon, but we'd be remiss if we didn't note that in some areas, drawing on public sidewalks and property is illegal. For this reason, it is probably a good idea to stick to decorating your own driveway and property, unless you are sure you aren't contravening local regulations. Also, while sidewalk chalk is designed to wash away, it could potentially stain newly poured concrete — or any very porous surface, for that matter. You can test the chalk out on a small, inconspicuous area first, and ensure that it washes away, before embarking on a large-scale art project.
With that said, we still find that the Crayola Outdoor and the Joyin Jumbo make fine choices for those who want a big pack of robust chalks with which to create. They each have plenty of color variety, and the sticks are relatively large and easy to grip. We also opted to keep the Fat Zebra Designs 52-Pack, after some consideration. Although the quality is good, the colors seem washed out, which can be frustrating to artists looking to make a splash.
If you're looking for a kit with a twist, the Crayola Spiral Art Kit or the Alex Art Mandala might just do the trick. These have stencils that can help encourage those who are shy about their drawing skills, the way that adult coloring books encourage creative skills in those who feel intimidated by pastels or watercolors. The stencils do add a layer of complexity that young kids might have trouble with, however. For these little ones, consider instead the Urban Infant Toddler, created specifically for tiny hands. These sticks are chunky, tough, and, most importantly, non-toxic.
December 20, 2018:
We've made sure to include options suitable for both home and schoolyard environments. Included some basic sets and several that come with extra tools for sparking inspiration, like stencils, holders, compasses, and more. Primarily sought out choices that offer a wide variety of colors to select from.
Special Honors
Snazzy Dazzy Flip Flops Chalk Names An eye-catching party favor or gift, the Snazzy Dazzy Flip Flops Chalk Names are customized to recipients, whether they have long names or short. They're conveniently wrapped in clear cellophane with cute ribbons at both ends to jazz up the packaging. etsy.com
Promotion Choice 3-Pack Keep your business's name in the forefront of customers' minds with the Promotion Choice 3-Pack, which comes in a customized box featuring your name and/or logo. You'll need to order in bulk, but samples are available, in case you'd like to check out the packaging before you commit. promotionchoice.com
Twee Mason's Planets Your young stargazer or aspiring astronaut will probably enjoy creating with the Twee Mason's Planets, and you can feel good about choosing this model, as a portion of the proceeds from each purchase goes to supporting autism research. Every package has nine planets, each with two or more layers of fun, swirly colors. tweemade.com
4. Creative Kids Premium
5. Crayola Glitter
6. Kinia Unicorn Horn
7. Walkie Chalk
8. Alex Art Mandala
9. Fat Zebra Designs 52-Pack
10. Crayola Spiral Art Kit
Melissa Harr is a language-obsessed writer from Chicagoland who holds both a bachelor of arts and master of arts in English. Although she began as a TEFL teacher, earning several teaching certificates and working in both Russia and Vietnam, she moved into freelance writing to satisfy her passion for the written word. She has published full-length courses and books in the realm of arts & crafts and DIY; in fact, most of her non-working time is spent knitting, cleaning, or committing acts of home improvement. Along with an extensive knowledge of tools, home goods, and crafts and organizational supplies, she has ample experience (okay, an obsession) with travel gear, luggage, and the electronics that make modern life more convenient.