Understanding non-toxic materials for healthy creative expression
Many conventional art materials contain chemicals that can pose health risks through skin contact, inhalation, or accidental ingestion. These risks are particularly concerning for children, whose developing bodies are more sensitive to toxins.
This guide helps you identify safer alternatives across different art supply categories, with special attention to products suitable for children and those with sensitivities.
Look for these labels throughout our material recommendations:
Remember that even "non-toxic" products should be used with proper ventilation and supervision for young children.
Traditional watercolors often contain heavy metals in their pigments. Look for these safer alternatives:
Made from plant, mineral, and earth pigments without synthetic additives.
Best for: All ages, especially children and people with chemical sensitivities.
Using honey as a binder instead of synthetic glycerin or additives.
Best for: Artists looking for professional quality with safer ingredients.
Traditional acrylics contain plastic polymers and potentially harmful preservatives. Consider these options:
Low-VOC formulations with minimal preservatives and no harmful solvents.
Best for: General use, suitable for most ages when used with ventilation.
Milk-protein-based paints that provide an acrylic-like finish without synthetic polymers.
Best for: Environmentally-conscious artists looking for versatile paint options.
Many conventional colored pencils use petroleum-based waxes and synthetic dyes.
Made with natural waxes, sustainable wood, and plant-derived pigments.
Features: Biodegradable, non-toxic, and often produced using renewable energy.
Traditional markers often contain harmful solvents and synthetic dyes.
Using water instead of alcohol or other solvents as the carrier for pigment.
Features: Low odor, washable from skin and most fabrics, and less likely to bleed through paper.
| Material Type | Traditional Concerns | Safer Alternatives | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colored Pencils | Lead, petroleum-based waxes, synthetic dyes | Plant-based waxes, vegetable oil binders, natural pigments | Detailed work, all ages |
| Markers | Xylene, toluene, alcohol-based solvents | Water-based, food-grade colorants | Bold coloring, illustrations |
| Crayons | Paraffin wax (petroleum byproduct), artificial dyes | Soy or beeswax, mineral pigments | Young children, texture exploration |
| Chalk | Dust inhalation, potential additives | Dust-free chalk, natural chalk made from gypsum | Large-scale drawing, outdoor art |
Many art papers are bleached with chlorine and contain optical brighteners or other chemical additives.
Made from post-consumer waste without chlorine bleaching.
Benefits: Reduces landfill waste and requires less energy to produce than virgin paper.
Made from alternative fibers such as bamboo, cotton, or hemp.
Benefits: Sustainable resource use, often more acid-free and archival than wood-pulp papers.
Common glues can contain harmful solvents, formaldehyde, and other concerning chemicals.
Plant-based adhesives made from vegetable starches.
Best for: Paper crafts, collage, and everyday art projects, especially for children.
Made from plant-derived ingredients like guar gum and natural latex.
Best for: Mixed media projects requiring stronger bonding than glue sticks.
Look for these certifications and labels when shopping for art materials:
Certified by ACMI (Art & Creative Materials Institute) to contain no materials in sufficient quantities to be toxic or injurious to humans.
Suitable for: All ages, including children.
Contains ingredients that may be harmful if misused, and includes cautionary information on proper handling.
Suitable for: Adults and older children with supervision.
Meets safety standards but may not have formal certification. Always check ingredients if available.
Suitable for: Varies by product; check for age recommendations.
Remember: Even products labeled as non-toxic may not be suitable for very young children or those with specific allergies or sensitivities.
Learn More About Safety LabelsExplore our recommended retailers and local New Zealand brands offering non-toxic art materials.
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