Sidewalk chalk isn't just for kids anymore. Artists of all ages are embracing this versatile medium to create stunning and temporary masterpieces on sidewalks and pavement. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, choosing the best sidewalk chalk can make a significant difference in the quality and longevity of your outdoor artwork. In this guide, we'll explore the key factors to consider when selecting sidewalk chalk for artists in 2024.
First and foremost, ease of use is paramount when it comes to sidewalk chalk. Artists need a chalk that glides smoothly on surfaces, allowing for precise and effortless drawing. The ability to create consistent lines and blend colors seamlessly can elevate your sidewalk art to the next level. Additionally, a wide color range is essential for unleashing your creativity and adding depth to your compositions. The more colors at your disposal, the more vibrant and detailed your artwork can become.
Crayola Washable Sidewalk Chalk Set: Best Creative Outdoor Play Chalk
Crayola Washable Sidewalk Chalk, Assorted Bright Colors - 48 count -- $5.29(Target)
Crayola Washable Sidewalk Chalk 64 Colors -- $9.88(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Crayola Washable Sidewalk Chalk Set is chosen for its vibrant color selection and easy-to-clean formula, making it an ideal choice for young artists who want to create detailed and colorful outdoor art. The washability ensures that parents and caretakers can easily clean up after playtime without any hassle.
Who It's For
This chalk set is best suited for children aged 3 years and older who enjoy drawing and coloring outdoors. It's also great for parents looking for a creative and non-permanent way to entertain their kids, as well as educators who want to incorporate fun and colorful outdoor activities into their curriculum.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Wide array of bright and bold colors | ❌ Chalk may wear down quickly if softer than expected |
| ✅ Washable chalk for easy cleanup | ❌ May require frequent reapplication for intense use |
| ✅ Easy-grip bodies and triangular tips for versatile use | ❌ Could be messy for indoor use |
Chalky Crown Liquid Chalk Markers: Best for Vibrant and Precise Chalk Art
CHALKY CROWN Liquid Chalk Marker Pen - White Drawing Chalk - Chalkboard ... -- $8.88(Amazon)
CHALKY CROWN Liquid Chalk Markers - Dry Erase Marker Pens - Chalk Marker... -- $9.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Chalky Crown Liquid Chalk Markers are selected for their precision, vibrant colors, and ease of use, making them a great choice for artists and anyone looking to create eye-catching displays on non-porous surfaces. They offer a dustless, non-toxic alternative to traditional chalk, with the added benefit of being easily erasable.
Who It's For
These markers are ideal for teachers, moms, students, artists, and bistro owners who want to create professional-looking signs, menu boards, or art projects. They are especially suited for those who prefer a clean and dust-free writing medium that can be used indoors or on smooth outdoor surfaces.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Safe and odor-free with a non-toxic, eco-friendly formula | ❌ More expensive than traditional chalk |
| ✅ Easy to use and erase with a wet paper towel from non-porous surfaces | ❌ May not work well on rough or porous surfaces |
| ✅ Includes reversible tip and chalkboard labels for versatile use | ❌ Limited to non-porous materials for best results |
Urban Infant Non-Toxic Chunky Sidewalk Chalk: Best Eco-Friendly Outdoor Art for Kids
Chunky Sidewalk Chalk Duo | Original Non-Toxic and Rainbow -- $19.95(Amazon)
Chunky Sidewalk Chalk Duo | Glitter + Original Non-Toxic -- $19.95(Amazon)
Urban Infant Non-Toxic Toddler | Kids Chunky Sidewalk Chalk - Original -- $10.95(Urban Infant)
Urban Infant Non-Toxic Toddler | Kids Chunky Sidewalk Chalk - Glitter -- $11.95(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Urban Infant Non-Toxic Chunky Sidewalk Chalk is an excellent choice for young artists and families looking for safe, eco-friendly outdoor play options. Its non-toxic certification ensures that it's safe for children, while the chunky design is tailored for small hands to grip easily, promoting fine motor skills and creativity. The inclusion of a hopscotch booklet adds an educational twist, making it more than just chalk—it's a tool for learning and fun.
Who It's For
This chalk is ideal for toddlers and young children who are developing their drawing skills, as well as for parents who prioritize non-toxic and durable play materials. It's also great for educators or caregivers looking for creative outdoor activities. However, it might not be the best fit for artists seeking to create detailed sidewalk art due to its chunky size.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Certified non-toxic and safe for all ages | ❌ Not suitable for detailed artwork |
| ✅ Chunky design is durable and easy to grip | ❌ May be too large for very small hands |
| ✅ Vibrant colors that stand out on various surfaces | ❌ Higher price point compared to regular chalk |
WeVeel Scentos Scented Chalk: Best Sensory Art Experience for Kids
Scentos Scented Sparkle Chalk - 8 ct -- $7.99(ShopScentos.com)
Scentos Scented Bold Chalk Pack (200 Count) -- $18(Poshmark)
Why We Picked It
The WeVeel Scentos Scented Chalk brings a unique sensory dimension to outdoor drawing and playtime. By infusing the chalk with scents, it creates a multi-sensory experience that can make art activities more engaging and enjoyable for children. The bright colors and the novelty of scented art supplies are designed to stimulate creativity and add an extra element of fun to traditional sidewalk chalk.
Who It's For
This product is best suited for children and families looking for a creative and sensory play activity. It's also great for educators or program leaders who want to introduce a new sensory element to art projects. However, it might not be the best choice for artists who prefer unscented art materials or for those who are sensitive to fragrances.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Engaging scented feature enhances the sensory experience | ❌ Scents may be distracting or overwhelming for some users |
| ✅ Comes in a variety of fun, bright colors | ❌ Not suitable for those with fragrance sensitivities |
| ✅ Available in both small and large packs for different needs | ❌ May not be preferred by artists seeking traditional, unscented chalk |
Faber-Castell Outdoor Chalk Art Set: Premium Choice for Outdoor Artists
Faber - Castell | Do Art Travel Easel -- $41.99(Faber-Castell USA)
Chalk Special Effects Set (30 Count), Sidewalk Chalk for Kids, Outdoor C... -- $19.5(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Faber-Castell Outdoor Chalk Art Set is a premium choice for artists who love to bring their creativity outdoors. Unlike standard chalk sets, this one is designed with the artist in mind, featuring vibrant colors and special tools for blending, allowing for more detailed and intricate chalk artworks. Its focus on quality and versatility makes it stand out from other options on the market, providing everything needed for creating stunning outdoor art.
Who It's For
This set is best suited for serious artists, both young and old, who are looking to elevate their sidewalk and outdoor art projects. It's perfect for those who appreciate quality and are willing to invest a bit more in their art supplies to achieve superior results. However, it might not be the best fit for casual users or those on a tight budget due to its higher price point.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Vibrant colors and blending tools for detailed work | ❌ Pricier than other chalk art sets |
| ✅ Designed specifically for artists and outdoor use | ❌ May not fit all budgets |
| ✅ Elevates sidewalk and outdoor art projects | ❌ More suited for serious artists than casual users |
Cedar Markers Gel Chalk Markers: Versatile and Vibrant Gel Chalk Markers
Liquid Chalk Markers - 12 Pack With 40 Chalkboard Labels - Bold Neon Col... -- $17.95(Amazon)
Bold Liquid Chalk Markers - Dry Erase Marker Pens for Chalkboards, Signs... -- $8.99(Amazon)
Assorted Chalk Markers - 24 Piece Set -- $19.99(Hobby Lobby)
Liquid Chalk Markers | Dust Free Chalk Pens - Perfect for Chalkboards, B... -- $25.99(Amazon)
FansArriche Liquid Chalk Markers, 28 colors 6mm Erasable Marker Pens, Wa... -- $22.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Cedar Markers Gel Chalk Markers are chosen for their vibrant and bold colors, which bring creativity to life on a variety of surfaces. Their unique gel formula ensures that these markers stand out for their versatility and ease of use, making them perfect for a wide range of artistic and practical applications. The inclusion of exclusive features like a free set of tweezers for tip changing and a revolutionary cap design further sets these markers apart, ensuring they last longer and remain user-friendly.
Who It's For
These markers are ideal for artists, teachers, and DIY enthusiasts who seek to add a pop of color to their projects. Whether it's for menu boards, chalkboard labels, or window decorations, these markers offer a reliable solution. However, they might pose a challenge for those accustomed to traditional chalk, due to their gel-based formula requiring a slight learning curve.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Vibrant and bold colors enhance creativity on various surfaces | ❌ Gel formula may require a learning curve for traditional chalk users |
| ✅ Easy cleanup on recommended surfaces with a damp cloth or paper towel | ❌ Not suitable for all chalkboard types, testing on small areas recommended |
| ✅ Long-lasting markers with exclusive features for ease of use and durability | ❌ Gold and Silver colors may need a dry paper towel for erasing, adding a step to cleanup |
Kedudes Non-Toxic White Dustless Chalk: Best Dustless Chalk for Clean Use
Kedudes Non-Toxic White Dustless Chalk (12 ct Box) and Colored Dustless ... -- $14.67(eBay - nadaroma_0)
Kedudes White Chalkboard Chalk - 24 Non-Toxic Chalks for Chalkboard - 2 ... -- $9.99(Amazon)
Kedudes Non-toxic White Dustless Chalk (12 Ct Box) And Colored -- $29.71(eBay - primarycare)
Why We Picked It
The Kedudes Non-Toxic White Dustless Chalk is a top pick for those who need a clean, dust-free writing experience, whether for educational purposes, menu boards, or artistic endeavors. Its non-toxic, washable formula ensures safety for users of all ages, and the smooth texture provides a pleasant drawing or writing experience without the mess typically associated with traditional chalk.
Who It's For
This product is ideal for teachers, artists, and parents who are looking for a safer, cleaner alternative to regular chalk. It's especially suitable for settings where cleanliness is a priority, such as classrooms, cafes, and home schooling environments. However, artists who require a diverse color palette may find the limitation to white color restrictive.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Dustless formula minimizes mess and respiratory irritation | ❌ Only available in white, limiting color options for artistic work |
| ✅ Non-toxic and washable, making it safe for children and easy to clean | ❌ May not be suitable for outdoor use where color visibility is important |
| ✅ Smooth texture allows for easy writing and drawing on blackboard surfaces | ❌ Some users may prefer a variety of colors for different teaching or artistic needs |
Sargent Art Square Pastel Sidewalk Chalk: Soft Touch for Sidewalk Art
Sargent Art Square Chalk Pastel Set -- $6.55(Nasco Education)
Sargent Art 22-4148 Colored Square Chalk Pastels, 48 Count -- $16.29(Amazon)
Sargent Art Artist Square Chalk Pastels Charcoal 12 per Pack -- $7.67(Teacher Supply Source)
Sargent Art 32 Count Square Pastels Half-Stick -- $10.96(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Sargent Art Square Pastel Sidewalk Chalk stands out for its unique pastel color palette, offering artists and hobbyists a softer touch for their sidewalk creations. Its square shape enhances grip and control, making it easier to create detailed artwork. The rich pigmentation ensures vibrant colors and depth, despite being pastels, and the velvety smooth texture allows for superior color control and blending. This chalk is versatile, with various color assortments available to cater to different artistic needs.
Who It's For
This chalk set is ideal for artists, teachers, and children who enjoy outdoor drawing and want to explore the softer shades of pastels. It's perfect for those who appreciate the quality of their drawing materials and seek to add a unique touch to their artwork. However, artists looking for extremely vibrant and neon colors might find the pastel palette limiting.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Unique pastel color palette for soft, subtle artwork | ❌ Pastel colors might not satisfy those seeking vibrant hues |
| ✅ Square shape for better grip and control | ❌ Limited color intensity compared to traditional chalk |
| ✅ Rich pigmentation and velvety texture for superior blending | ❌ May require multiple layers for desired opacity |
Crafty Croc Liquid Chalk Markers: Best for Dust-Free Chalk Art
Crafty Croc 4 White Liquid Chalk Markers, 6mm Reversible Tip -- $9.99(Amazon)
Crafty Croc Liquid Chalk Markers, Vibrant Neon Colors, 10-Pack -- $21.63(eBay - usa-cart100)
Crafty Croc Liquid Chalk Markers 10 Pack - New Toys & Collectibles -- $15(Mercari)
Crafty Croc Liquid Chalk Markers, 10 Pack of Neon Chalk Pens, For Nonpor... -- $16.56(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Crafty Croc Liquid Chalk Markers are selected for their versatility and convenience, offering artists, teachers, and decorators a dust-free alternative to traditional chalk. These markers are celebrated for their vibrant colors and ease of use on nonporous surfaces, making them ideal for a variety of creative and practical applications.
Who It's For
These markers are perfect for artists who enjoy creating bright and bold designs, teachers who want to make classroom learning more engaging, and business owners who need to create eye-catching signs for menus or promotions. They are also great for parents looking for a non-toxic and easy-to-clean option for their children's creative play.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Vibrant and precise lines for various creative projects | ❌ Markers may deplete quickly with frequent use |
| ✅ Water-based and easily erasable, making clean-up a breeze | ❌ Specifically designed for nonporous surfaces, limiting versatility |
| ✅ Non-toxic with US and European certifications for safety | ❌ Potential for inconsistent flow if not used properly |
Thanks for reading! If you have any more questions or need further recommendations, feel free to reach out. Happy shopping and creating!