Hosting a coloring party is a joyful way to connect with loved ones, foster creativity, and spend time together in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Whether you’re planning a small gathering with friends, a fun activity for family, or even a virtual event, a coloring party can bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Let’s walk through a detailed guide on how to plan and host a magical coloring party that leaves everyone feeling inspired.

1. Planning Your Coloring Party with Love

Before you dive into the details, take a moment to reflect on the purpose of your party. Are you creating a relaxing space for mindfulness? Celebrating a milestone, a birthday or a bachelorette? Or simply gathering to have fun? A coloring party is a wonderful way to connect with others, it's especially amazing if you have a theme!

Choosing a Coloring Theme

Themes give your party a unique touch and tie everything together. Ideas like "Birthday", "Bachelorette", "Baby Shower", "Cats", “Floral Fantasy,” “Animal Adventures,” or “Abstract Patterns” can guide your selection of coloring pages, decorations, and even refreshments. Check our hand-drawn coloring pages that are super cute and amazing for many different themes! Explore our coloring pages here

Setting a Date and Time

Choose a time when guests can fully unwind and enjoy themselves. Weekends or late afternoons work well for most people. Start a poll to let everyone vote, if scheduling might become a problem.

2. Preparing Materials That Delight

Having the right supplies can elevate your coloring party from a casual gathering to a truly unforgettable experience! I made this experience myself... a colorful set of Ohuhu alcohol-based markers can change everything! Let’s dive into the tools of the trade:

Curate Your Coloring Pages

You can either offer a variety of coloring pages suited to your theme or offer only one page - both ideas are amazing! If you offer a variety of coloring pages, you can include options for different skill levels. If you offer just one page, you can compare after the coloring session, which is A LOT of fun usually. Just make sure that the page is generally easy to color. At pokiandkiwi.com we provide beautiful, printable designs that appeal to all ages and abilities. Explore our coloring pages here

Read more

• How to Host a Virtual Coloring Party with Friends and Family
• The Ohuhu 320 Marker Set: A Must Try For Every Coloring Fan
• Why Hand-Drawn Coloring Pages Are Better Than AI-Generated Designs

Essential Coloring Tools

1. Colored Pencils

A classic choice, colored pencils are perfect for creating intricate designs and layering colors. Look for artist-quality brands like Prismacolor or Faber-Castell for smooth application and vibrant hues. They’re also easy to erase, making them ideal for beginners.

2. Markers (Alcohol-Based)

Markers provide bold, vibrant colors that pop off the page. Alcohol-based markers, like Copic or Ohuhu, are popular among enthusiasts for their smooth blending capabilities. Having a bit set like the 320 set by Ohuhu can elevate every coloring party! People generally love those colors as they blend smoothly. Read my comprehensive review of Ohuhu Alcohol-based markers here

3. Crayons

A nostalgic favorite, crayons are simple and fun to use. Modern crayons come in a variety of forms, including glitter, metallic, and even watercolor crayons. Their affordability and ease of use make them perfect for kids or large groups.

4. Gel Pens

For those who love intricate details, gel pens are a fantastic choice. They’re available in metallic, glitter, and neon finishes, adding a dazzling effect to your designs. Use them to enhance outlines or create eye-catching highlights. Many coloring enthusiasts combine alcohol-based markers (for example by Ohuhu) with gel pens, creating amazing results!

5. Pastels

Soft pastels and oil pastels offer a unique texture and richness. They’re great for blending colors and creating a soft, dreamy effect. Although a bit messier than other tools, they’re worth considering for their creative potential.

6. Watercolor Pencils

A versatile tool, watercolor pencils allow you to add a splash of water for a painterly effect. They’re perfect for creating soft, blended backgrounds or adding dimension to your artwork.

Optional Extras

• Blending Tools: Blending stumps or brushes can help smooth transitions between colors.
• Paper Types: Use heavier paper or cardstock or simple printer paper.
• Accessories: You can include erasers, sharpeners, and a few spare tools to accommodate everyone’s needs.

3. Creating a Warm Ambiance

Setting the scene is about making your guests feel comfortable and welcomed. A warm, inviting atmosphere encourages everyone to relax and enjoy the experience.

Decorations

Stick to your chosen theme to inspire the party décor. For example, a “Nature’s Wonders” theme could include potted plants, floral garlands, and wood-textured table settings. Simple touches like colorful tablecloths or fairy lights can instantly brighten the space.

Soothing Background Music

Music and art go hand in hand! Create a playlist to enhance the creative ambiance. Whatever floats your boat is fine, just make sure it's not something your guests hate... 🙂

Thoughtful Refreshments

Snacks and drinks add to the festive mood. Choose finger foods like cookies, mini sandwiches, or veggie platters that are easy to enjoy while coloring. Offer a mix of beverages, such as tea, water, lemonade to keep guests refreshed.

4. Hosting the Party: Step-by-Step

A Warm Welcome

Welcoming guests is always a bit nerve-racking.. will everyone enjoy the theme? Will they hate coloring? Try to ignore those fears and go with the flow! Introduce the theme and coloring tools and let everyone react however they feel at that point.

Dive into Coloring

Encourage everyone to pick their favorite coloring pages and tools. Let them know it’s not about perfection; it’s about enjoying the moment. This gentle reminder helps create a judgment-free space where everyone feels at ease. Never pressure someone to color or use specific tools, let them decide and go from there.

Interactive Activities

• Show and Tell: Let guests showcase their finished pieces and share their creative process.
• Collaborative Coloring: Work together on a large coloring page or mural for a fun, shared experience.
• Friendly Competitions: Host lighthearted contests with categories like “Most Creative” or “Best Use of Color.” Offer small prizes or handmade keepsakes.

5. Quick Intro to Virtual Coloring Parties

Virtual coloring parties are a wonderful way to connect across distances. If you’re considering one, you’ll find all the tips and tricks you need in this detailed guide from Poki and Kiwi: How to Host a Virtual Coloring Party.

6. Adding Mindfulness and Joy

Coloring isn’t just fun... it’s also a form of mindfulness. Use your party as an opportunity to introduce relaxation and self-care to your guests, if you like. Read below how you can incorporate mindfulness into your coloring party.

Encourage Relaxation

Invite your guests to take their time and focus on the process rather than the outcome. Share the idea that coloring can be meditative, helping to quiet the mind and bring a sense of calm.

Share Gratitude

As the host, your energy sets the tone. Celebrate each guest’s creativity, offer kind words of encouragement, and express gratitude for their presence. These simple gestures make the event more meaningful.

7. Parting Gifts and Final Touches

Sending guests home with a small token of appreciation leaves a lasting impression.

DIY Goodie Bags

Fill goodie bags with thoughtful items like mini coloring books, a small set of gel pens, or even a printout of your favorite coloring page. Add a handwritten thank-you note for a personal touch.

Capture the Moment

Take group photos or snapshots of everyone’s artwork (with their permission). Share these memories after the party as a fun way to reminisce and reconnect.

Conclusion

Hosting a coloring party is a simple yet meaningful way to bring people together, spark creativity, and foster joy. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a lively celebration with friends, the thoughtful touches you add will make your event truly special.

With this guide, you’re ready to create a memorable experience filled with laughter, connection, and colorful creativity. So, gather your supplies, pick a theme, and let the fun begin!

For more resources and inspiration, take a look at our coloring pages ➜