Art Class Shirts

As a parent, back-to-school shopping brings a mix of excitement and stress. While it’s fun to pick out new outfits and supplies, trying to find clothes that are comfortable, durable, and stylish can be a challenge. One item that’s essential for the new school year is a good selection of art class shirts.

Art class is often a highlight of the school week. Allowing kids to freely express themselves through painting, drawing, sculpting, and more, art teachers create an environment where creativity can flourish. Of course, with all those fun art projects comes the potential for major messes! Having shirts specifically for art class helps limit stains on school uniforms or “good” clothes.

When shopping for art class shirts this back-to-school season, you’ll want to find options that check off all the boxes: comfortable, machine washable, budget-friendly, and cute! As a parent who has spent hours searching for the perfect art shirts for my kids over the years, I’ve gathered some helpful tips and information to make your shopping experience easier. Keep reading for the ultimate guide on finding great art class shirts your kids will love wearing.

What Exactly Are Art Class Shirts?

Art class shirts refer to tops and tees meant to be worn specifically during art class or while doing messy craft projects. They are designed to handle paint spills, glue stains, and other art mishaps.

Sometimes art shirts are provided by the school as part of the required uniform. Other times parents are expected to purchase them separately. Either way, they are a must-have for any student attending art class regularly.

While old oversized t-shirts or hand-me-downs can work, buying shirts specifically made for art projects offers benefits. Art class shirts are engineered to be comfortable for creating and moving, as well as durable to withstand rough treatment. They are made of materials that launder well, lifting out the toughest stains easily. Plus, art shirts today come in fun colors, prints, and graphics kids adore wearing.

Investing in good quality art shirts, rather than repurposing old ratty tops, keeps kids excited about art projects. With the right art shirt, your child will look forward to their creativity shining in class, not dread messes and stains!

Top Places to Buy Art Class Shirts

Finding the perfect art shirts for your kids is easy when you know where to shop! Here are my top recommendations for places to buy quality and affordable art class shirts:

Amazon

A prime destination for all school supplies, Amazon offers a huge selection of art class shirts for boys and girls. Browse multipacks of plain shirts in different color combos or single graphic tees. Amazon’s selection includes popular brands like Crazy Cool T-Shirts, JanSport, ShopTrends and more. Free Prime shipping makes outfitting multiple kids affordable.

Key tip: Search “painting shirts,” “art smocks” or “craft shirts kids” to quickly find all the art shirt options available.

Old Navy

For durable, comfortable art shirts, Old Navy is a go-to. Their Girls’ Uniform Tees and Boys’ Uniform Tees come in short and long sleeve options starting under $7. Choose from multiple colors including both solid hues and colorblocking. Old Navy’s art shirts hold up well to stains and feature a soft jersey knit fabric.

Michael’s

For the crafty kid who wants art on their art shirts, Michael’s carries cute graphic tees. Let them show off their creative spirit with art puns, colorful paint designs, or their favorite animal. Michael’s also stocks smocks, aprons, and boys’ and girls’ solid color T-shirts for layering.

The Children’s Place

Another reliable source for school uniform staples, The Children’s Place provides lots of art shirt choices. Look for their short sleeve polos in every color, each featuring a stain-resistant finish and a soft jersey knit. Prices start at $4.50 when on sale.

Zazzle

For one-of-a-kind art shirts, Zazzle offers complete customization. Upload a child’s own artwork or choose quirky clipart to create a truly personalized shirt. With a huge range of colors, styles, and sizes, Zazzle’s custom shirts make great gifts for the artistic kid.

Art Class Shirts for Girls and Boys

The first step in picking art shirts is choosing whether you need girls’ or boys’ sizing. While colors and fit vary, many art shirt styles work for either gender. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:

Colors
Girls’ art shirts tend to come in “girlier” hues like pink, purple, mint, and peach. However, don’t be afraid to pick a traditionally “boy” color too – blue art shirts on a girl can be adorable! For boys’ shirts, opt for primaries like red, blue, yellow or black and white.

Fit
Look for a slimmer athletic fit in girls’ sizes and roomier boxy cuts for boys. However, today’s art shirts come in many fits, so choose what your child finds most comfortable.

Styling
Keep an eye out for extra stylish touches on girls’ shirts, like sweet heart shapes or flutter sleeves. Boys’ shirts may feature prominent brand logos or action graphics. But again, either gender can wear ANY style as long as your child likes it!

Sizing
Size up for a looser fit to provide lots of room for creative movement. Don’t buy more than 1 size up though, or sleeves could get paint-dipped! Check size charts to compare girls vs. boys.

Sizing Information For Finding the Best Fit

Art shirts are designed for mess-making, so be sure to choose the right size for your child. Keep these tips in mind:

• Size up for room to move. Art shirts should fit comfortably loose, not tight and constricting.
• Try both short sleeve and long sleeve options. Long sleeve provides more coverage.
• Measure your child’s height and weight and consult individual size charts for each brand. Children’s sizing varies quite a bit.
• For in-between sizes, size up to the larger size. Err on the side of more room.
• The average size 4T fits preschoolers 3-4 years old, weighing 35-50 lbs and 34-43 inches tall.
• For elementary kids, size small fits 4-5 years old, 44-55 lbs, 42-46 inches tall.
• Size medium fits the average 6-9 year old. Large works for 10-12 years old.
• Juniors sizes run from XS or small for tweens to XL or XXL for high schoolers.

Tip: Buy a multi-pack with a range of sizes to accommodate growth spurts or shrinking in the wash.

Best Materials for Art Class Shirts

When your kid’s wardrobe is at risk, material matters! Seek out art shirts made of fabrics that are machine washable, stain-resistant, and soft:

100% Cotton

Cotton is soft, breathable, and easy to clean. Look for a lighter weight cotton jersey or knit for comfort. Pre-wash new cotton shirts to shrink them.

Cotton-Polyester Blends

Blended with polyester, cotton becomes more durable and wrinkle-resistant. A 60% cotton 40% polyester split is ideal for art shirts.

Polyester or Performance Fabrics

Synthetic moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester provide stain resistance. But they can feel hotter for art class. Aim for at least 60% cotton in blends.

Nylon or Spandex

Added stretch from nylon or spandex blended into cotton or polyester boosts movement range in art shirts. But too much looks overly athletic.

Pro tip: No matter the fabric, look for double-stitched seams which withstand tugging and pulling during creative projects.

Are Art Class Shirts Suitable for School Uniforms?

Using art shirts as part of a school uniform is one of the most popular ways to keep uniforms looking sharp. Schools with strict dress codes often specify art smocks as acceptable uniform tops for art, science, or other messy classes.

Art shirts work well as uniform pieces because:

• They come in basic solid colors that align with uniform palettes. White, navy, black, gray, and blue art shirts easily coordinate.
• Unisex styles and sleeve options adapt to both girls and boys uniform guidelines.
• Breathable cotton or poly blends look crisp but avoid overheating.
• Stain-resistant fabrics maintain a neat appearance even after messy art projects.
• Easy machine washing keeps them looking like new all year long.
• Comfortable cuts allow free movement for running, playing, and creating.

Check with your child’s school for any specifications, like logo or color requirements. Then look for art smock shirts that fit the rules and make getting creative during the school day a breeze!

Fun Prints and Graphics to Explore

While classic white or black art shirts are uniform-friendly, don’t be afraid to pick vivid colors, funky prints, or designs featuring your child’s favorite characters. It is art class after all! Here are some of the coolest graphics and patterns to look for on boys’ and girls’ art shirts:

Paint Splatter

These colorful tees look like a canvas hit by flying paint – perfect for the budding artist! Opt for splattered paint prints in neon shades, pastels, or primary colors.

Animal Prints

Kids will go wild for art shirts covered in lions, tigers, bears or other critters. Look for both realistic and whimsical cartoon animal designs.

Science Themes

Does your kid love science class too? Grab art shirts featuring experiments, planets, rocket ships, dinosaurs, and more science themes.

Food Art

Pizza, donuts, tacos – kids adore tees printed with yummy food graphics. Search for funny food-based art puns and delicious designs.

Music, Dance, Sports

Channel your child’s interests with art shirts themed around singing, ballet, soccer, and other passions. Instruments, jerseys, dance shoes, and more get two thumbs up.

Brand Logos

Let them reps their favorite brands like Lego, Disney, Nickelodeon, Minecraft, and more all over their art shirts. Recognizable logos and characters make art class more fun.

Long Sleeve and Short Sleeve Options

Art shirts come in both long sleeves and short sleeves to work for different seasons and classroom environments. Here’s how to choose:

Long Sleeve Art Shirts

• Provide more coverage for bigger projects involving more mess.
• Help avoid messes on arms and elbows when leaning and painting.
• Recommended for cooler weather, though can get hotter.
• Allow layering over short sleeve uniform tops if needed.
• May fit tighter through arms than oversized short sleeve styles.

Short Sleeve Art Shirts

• Offer breathability and mobility in warmer weather.
• Still provide coverage for light art activities.
• Allow wearing short sleeves under if extra warmth is needed.
• Come in wider range of colors and prints, like bright graphic tees.
• Can work as uniform shirts in warmer climates or seasons.

Tip: Buy both to be prepared! Rotate long and short sleeve art shirts as activities and temperatures change.

Graphic Tees: A Creative Twist

Beyond solid color shirts, graphic tees can provide a fun creative outlet. Art puns, cool designs, brands they love – graphics make getting messy more exciting!

Graphic t-shirts are also quick and easy art shirts. No need to layer over uniforms – just toss on and go!

When shopping, look for:

• A lightweight cotton or poly blend that’s soft and breathable
• Eye-catching graphics in front with solid color backs and sleeves
• Machine washable fabrics that lift stains
• Relaxed fits they can move and groove in
• Short sleeve options for warm weather wear
• Quality construction that endures active art classes
• Styles for both girls and boys

With the huge range available, it’s easy to find just the right graphic tee to unleash your child’s inner artist!

Where to Buy Art Class Shirts In-Store

While online shopping is convenient, kids grow so fast it can help to try art shirts on in-store before purchasing. Here are the top brick-and-mortar retailers where you can find quality art class shirts:

Old Navy – Check the sale racks for their Uniform Tees in a spectrum of colors.

The Children’s Place – Shop their “wear-to-school” collections for polos, graphic tees, and long sleeves.

Target – Browse basic tees and value packs along with trendy graphics.

Kohl’s – Find Amazon brands like Crazy Cool T-Shirts and JanSport plus Jumping Beans school shirts.

Walmart – Pick up multi-packs of plain crew necks starting under $10.

Michael’s – Peruse licensed character shirts, smocks, and aprons by Creatology.

TJ Maxx/Marshall’s – Discover clearance deals on art smocks and graphic tees.

Try stores late summer as back-to-school sections are stocked. But also check post-season for deals on leftover shirts. Luckily art shirts are classic, not just for back-to-school!

Fit Comparison: Art Class Shirts vs. Other Brands

Wondering how popular kids clothing brands compare when it comes to art shirt sizing and fit? Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

• Crazy Cool T-Shirts run large and boxy. Size down for a better fit.
• Old Navy Kids tends to fit true to size. Size up one for a roomier art shirt.
• H&M Kids shirts are slim fitting. Consider sizing up twice so it’s not snug.
• Cat & Jack (Target brand) fits true to size with comfortable roominess perfect for art.
• Carters art shirts are generously sized. Stick to regular size for a great art shirt fit.
• JanSport shirts are athletic cut but still roomy. Size up once for maximum art shirt comfort.
• JOYIN smocks can run large. Measure kids’ actual chest size and refer to the size chart.

Tip: Above all else, read size charts instead of guessing at sizing! All brands have slight variations.

Casual Art Class Shirt Styles

Not all art projects require serious smocks or stiff long sleeves. For casual art activities, try these cute and comfy shirt styles:

T-shirts

Choose slim fit, comfy cotton tees in fun brights, pastels, neons, or prints. Let stains happen – a “messy” tee shows it’s been worn and loved.

Tie-dye Tees

Groovy tie-dye instantly lifts any art outfit. Go for neon rainbow colors for a real artistic statement.

Graphic Tees

Let them show off their fandom or humor! Graphic tees increase the fun factor for easy art projects.

Ringer Tees

Showcase their style in baseball style ringer tees. White collar and sleeves pop against colorful dye-friendly bodies.

Muscle Tanks

Amp up the art room attitude in edgy muscle tanks with graffiti vibes, cool graphics, or metallic accents.

Crop Tops

Fashionable cropped cuts allow free arm movement for painting. Pair with high-waisted pants or skirts.

Art Class Shirts for Formal Occasions

For formal events or dress uniform days, upgrade to these polished art shirt styles:

Oxford Shirts

Crisp Oxfords in solid colors maintain a formal look despite stains. Try cotton-poly blends that wrinkle less.

Polos

Polos pull double duty as uniform tops and art shirts when needed. Opt for moisture-wicking performance polos.

Button-Downs

Roll up long sleeves of a woven button-down before painting commences. Chest pockets add visual interest.

White Turtlenecks

Crisp white turtlenecks under jumpers or dresses keep uniforms immaculate.

Chambray Shirting

The denim look of chambray gives a smart preppy vibe. Just avoid lighter washes that show stains.

Blouses

Let girls layer pretty Peter Pan collared blouses or puff sleeve styles under smocks or pinafores.

The key is sticking to solids versus busy prints that show every splatter! Play with different sleeve lengths and fabric weights to find the best fit.

Why You Should Buy Art Class Shirts in Multi-Packs

When buying art shirts, take advantage of bulk savings by purchasing affordable multi-packs. Here’s why it pays to buy art shirts this way:

• Cost savings – Multi-packs provide volume discounts, so the more you buy, the more you save per shirt. A 4-pack often costs just a bit more than a single shirt.
• Simplify shopping – One multi-pack purchase replaces buying multiple single shirts. Less time shopping equals more time for fun!
• Extra supply – With multiples, you won’t need to wash an art shirt every single night to have one ready for the next day.
• Mix and match – Having several shirt colors and styles makes coordinating outfits and uniforms easier.
• Prepare for growth – No need to shop mid-year if your kid hits a growth spurt. Just move on to the next size up in the pack!
• Share with siblings – Multi-packs mean hand-me-downs for siblings. Buy a variety of sizes for multiple kids.

Stock up on multi-packs of art shirts at the start of the school year for maximum convenience. The more shirts you have on hand, the less time you’ll stress about messy art projects!

Score Art Class Shirt Deals and Discounts

Outfitting multiple kiddos for back-to-school can strain the wallet. Keep costs low by shopping sales, deals, and discounts on art smock shirts:

• Old Navy offers up to 50% off all kids’ clothes during frequent sales events – stock up on their Uniform Tees for less.
• Sign up for Amazon’s daily Gold Box and Lightning deals to snag brand name art shirts for under $10.
• Michael’s always provides coupons online for 20-40% off one regular priced item, including kid’s art shirts.
• Shop Target’s teacher prep sale in late summer for value bulk packs of uniform and art shirts.
• Peruse the Crazy Cool T-Shirts Amazon storefront for special deals like buy 3, get 1 free.
• The Children’s Place offers huge markdowns on their “wear now” clothes – including uniform knit shirts perfect for art class.
• Check clearance racks in late fall/winter for short sleeve shirts marked down after back-to-school season ends.

With some persistence checking sales and discounts, you can keep art shirt costs low while still getting quality options your kids will love. Don’t pay full price!

Personalize Art Class Shirts with DIY Customization

Beyond store-bought designs, use DIY projects to make art shirts uniquely your child’s own. With a little creativity, you can customize inexpensive plain shirts found anywhere:

• Iron-on vinyl – Cut out iron-on vinyl in fun shapes, words, or patterns to iron onto shirt fronts.
• Fabric paint – Use fabric markers or acrylic paint pens to draw or doodle directly onto shirts.
• Stenciling – Make stencils from cardstock to create letters or images with fabric paint.
• Tie-dye – Use rubber bands and rit dye to transform blank shirts into colorful works of wearable art.
• Bleach art – Use stencils and bleach to make a colorful shirt even cooler. The bleach eats away dye leaving a design.
• Bedazzling – Glue on rhinestones, studs, or sequins in their initial or name using a fabric-safe adhesive.

Let kids plan their own shirt designs to get them jazzed about making art even on their outfit. Unleash their inner fashion designer and see what they create!

Art Class Shirts Work for All Ages

Don’t be limited to the “kids” section when art shirt shopping. Teens and adults need coverage during art projects too! Art shirts are designed for a wide range of ages:

• Preschool – Stick to easy-pull on smocks or tees in sizes 2T to 5T.
• Elementary – Kid sizes small to large (or XS kids to XL kids) provide plenty of room to move.
• Middle School – Try kid sizes XL up to adult smalls as tweens gain longer limbs.
• High School – Teen and adult sizes from small through XL offer a mature fit.
• Adults – For teachers, parents helping out, or working artists, look for XS through 3X.

Pay attention to size charts and don’t assume a child size will fit everyone. There are plenty of youthful art shirt options for all ages to let creativity flow mess-free!

Key Takeaways: Mastering the Art Class Shirt

Finding the perfect art shirts takes a bit of planning, but following these tips will ensure your kids are covered during messy art class fun:

• Seek out durable, washable fabrics like cotton/poly blends
• Choose loose, roomy fits allowing free movement and creativity
• Stock up on both long and short sleeves to have options
• Shop sales and multi-packs for value over single shirts
• Mix solids for uniforms with playful prints and graphics too
• Size up over regular shirts for maximum mess protection
• Customize with DIY projects to make boring shirts exciting
• Remember art shirts work for students of all ages – even you!

With the right art shirts, your kids will look forward to unleashing their creative spirit all year long. Let the painting, gluing, sculpting, and making commence!