Exploring Two Art Materials in Class: A Review from Real Use

Exploring Two Art Materials in Class: A Review from Real Use

As an art educator, I’m always on the lookout for fun and creative materials to introduce in class. Recently, I purchased two new products to explore with my students—one was exciting but ultimately disappointing, while the other turned out to be a true gem that I highly recommend.

The first material was a nano tape balloon slime—a trendy craft item where you use nano tape to form a balloon by inserting glitter and inflating it with a straw. It looks like a magical bubble when done right, but in reality, it’s quite difficult to make. Shaping it properly is tricky, and even if you succeed, the balloon is very sticky and fragile. When it deflates or bursts, it can become messy and even hazardous in a classroom setting. The tape sticks strongly to surfaces and skin, and the glitter can be hard to clean. While it’s visually intriguing, I wouldn’t recommend this for use in a group activity with kids, especially younger ones.

In contrast, the second item—the magic cellulose sponge paper—was a huge hit. This sponge-like paper starts out flat and stiff but expands when wet. We let students draw on the paper with markers or paint, then apply water with a brush. Watching their artwork “come to life” as the paper puffs up into 3D forms is a moment of pure joy. It was not only visually satisfying but also added a tactile and scientific element to the creative process. The material is lightweight, safe, and perfect for repeated use in classrooms.

This experience reminded me that not all novel materials are suitable for educational settings. Sometimes, simple and reliable materials spark more engagement and learning. I wrote this review to share my honest feedback, hoping it can help other educators and parents choose the right tools for their students’ creativity.
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Let’s continue discovering new ways to inspire our young artists—because the right material can make all the difference.

​Affordable Art Materials for Kids: Honest Review of Nano Tape Balloon & Magic Sponge Paper