Any parent knows that trying to keep kids entertained can be a challenge. Whether you’re dealing with rainy day boredom or just looking for a way to keep them occupied while you get things done, finding enjoyable and educational activities can be tricky. That’s why free printable coloring pages are such a great resource.
A wide variety of traditional and modern designs are available, so you’re sure to find something to suit your child’s taste. Not only are they fun for kids, but they’re also a great way to help them develop important skills like fine motor coordination and color recognition. And best of all, they’re completely free!
With so many Free Printable Coloring Pages for Kids available online, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. How do you know which ones to print? And once you’ve found the perfect coloring page, how do you ensure that it prints correctly? Here are several tips to help you print free coloring pages like a pro:
Choose The Right Paper
The type of paper you use for your coloring pages can significantly affect the final result.
Regular copy papers are fine for most purposes, but if you want your pages to look more professional, consider investing in some card stock.
This heavier paper will give your pages a nicer finish and help them withstand repeated coloring.
Choose Age-Appropriate Pages
Not all coloring pages are created equal. Some are more complex than others, and some may be too simple for your child’s skill level.
Choose age-appropriate pages to avoid frustration and encourage a love of coloring.
Make Sure The Page Is Crisp And Clear
Before you print a coloring page, make sure it’s crisp and clear. Check for any blurry or fuzzy areas; if you find any, try downloading the page again or finding a different version. A crisp, clear image will be much easier to color than a fuzzy one.
Check The Quality Of The Images
The last thing you want is for your child to be disappointed with their coloring pages. To avoid this, check the images’ quality before printing them. Make sure they’re not pixelated or blurry and that all the details are visible.
Use Quality Coloring Supplies
If you’re going to spend the time to print coloring pages, use high-quality coloring materials. Crayons and colored pencils are decent choices for younger children, while markers or gel pens might be better for older kids.
Test the pen on a piece of paper before using it on the coloring page, so it doesn’t bleed through.
Print In Black And White
Depending on the design of the coloring page, you may find that printing in black and white can actually be better than printing in color.
This can save you some money on printer ink and allow your child to practice their fine motor skills by coloring in the lines.
Make Copies
If you’re worried about your child ruining their coloring page, make a copy before they start. That way, if they make a mistake, you can print another one.
You could also scan the page and save it to your computer so you can reprint it as many times as you need.
Know Your Page Margins
Before printing, take a look at the margins of your chosen coloring page. The margins are often too small, and parts of the image get cut off when printed.
If this happens, try adjusting your printer settings or use a different browser all together. Some browsers are better at preserving margins than others.
Use A Background Color
Consider using a background color if your child is coloring a page with a lot of white space.
This will help the image stand out and make it easier for your child to see what they’re doing. You can use a solid color or even patterned scrapbook paper.
Limit The Number Of Pages
Don’t try to print too many pages at once. Your printer may be unable to handle it, and it can cost you more ink or toner.
Try printing a few pages at a time and then see how your printer does. If it starts to have trouble, stop and take a break.
Preview The Page Before Printing
Before you print a coloring page, always preview it first. This way, you can make sure the image is centered and sized correctly. You can also check for any last-minute details that need to be fixed.
Store Printed Pages Carefully
After you print your coloring pages, take extra care in how you store them. The colors may bleed if stored in a humid or damp environment.
Too much sun exposure will result in faded colors, so keep them in cool and dry conditions.
Conclusion
Free Printable Coloring pages are a great way to keep your kids entertained and engaged. But before you print them, there are a few things you need to know to get the best results. Follow these tips for printing coloring pages, and you’ll be sure to have a successful project.
