Fabric Drawing Pad with Water Pens

I don't know how you could make it, but it's just a gussied up aquadoodle. I got one @ Target on clearance last year, so you might be able to find one on sale - or even a used one on craigslist or freecycle. If you can get a free one or a really cheap one, even if it's not in good shape, you might be able to use that to dissect and try to figure out how to make one.

My son received one for his birthday. He played with it once. It's a neat idea, but markers are more fun. We like the "color wonder" ones. No mess.

Unfortunately, the toy's fabric is treated w/ a special coating that changes color when wet. I honestly don't know how you'd be able to replicate it. It's probably best that you just go ahead and purchase it.

My granddaughter had something like this. The pens are just hollow pieces of plastic in which you suck up plain water. What makes the colors on the fabric is something with which the fabric is treated. The mat can be washed over and over and still work. I've not seen that sort of fabric for sale.

The fabric actually changes color when wet with water.

To be honest...I think that the materials would cost you more than it is worth. I found a double sided one with four little "markers" for less than $15 on Amazon last year. The fabric doesn't change color on ours...it just is darker from the water.

If you're determined to try it. You could stretch a piece of poly/cotton blend twill (I think 100% cotton will hold too much water and not dry fast enough to keep draawing) over an embroidery hoop. At the office supply store, you can buy a little bottle with a sponge on the end used for wetting envelope glue that could work for the marker.

I don't really understand how it works except that fabric gets darker when it gets wet. I think you could do it with one of those paint brushes you put paint in and just use water instead. Otherwise, maybe just a regular paint brush and use a little cup of water?