Getting boys excited about art can sometimes feel like convincing a cat to take a bath. The secret sauce to engaging boys in art class is tapping into their interests with projects that feel fun and relevant and adding in some physical activity if possible. So, I’ve tried to compile a list of engaging art projects for boys that will keep them hooked, from action-packed doodle battles to grid drawing worksheets filled with their favorite things.
1. Emphasis Doodle Battles: Boys Love this One
If you want to see boys completely immersed in an art project, introduce them to Emphasis Doodle Battles! This high-energy lesson gets students designing a battle scene between two opposing forces—think robots vs. monsters, pirates vs. ninjas, or aliens vs. cowboys. The goal? To create a focal point using contrast, location, convergence, isolation, and the unexpected. The project includes:
- A step-by-step lesson plan that walks students through the process.
- A PowerPoint presentation filled with vocabulary, student examples, and inspiration.
- A rubric that makes grading easy.
- A 3-page water-based marker technique worksheet packet for adding vibrant color.
- A brainstorming worksheet to help students develop their battle ideas.
- A focal point planning worksheet to guide composition choices.
- A color scheme planning packet so they can make intentional color choices.
- Facial expression reference images to make their characters even more expressive.
Boys love this project because it combines creativity with storytelling, action, and strategy. Plus, it’s just plain fun!
2. Paper Maché Madness: Hands-On is Always a Hit with the XY Chromosome Crew
Boys really thrive during any project where they need to stand up and move around a little. This is why paper maché is always a hit! Whether they’re creating bowls, Mexican alebrijes, masks, or Claus Oldenburg inspired giant everyday objects, this 3D art technique allows them to build, layer, and paint their creations in a way that feels almost magical. The tactile nature of paper maché keeps students engaged, and the endless possibilities mean they can create something unique and personal.
I have a free lesson for Paper Mache bowls available HERE!
Interesting note: I have noticed a big change in students (especially BOYS) in the last 16 years of doing paper mache. They used to jump in and get their hands dirty. In the last 5 years I have noticed that more and more students DO NOT want to touch the paste. I’ve been using the last few boxes of Elmer’s Art Paste too so it’s not like its the old, yucky flour and water paste either.
So, if you are planning to try this, I would recommend providing optional gloves. Don’t let them wash their hands a thousand times or they will totally waste their time. I’ve also found that they work better on their own projects rather than in groups, because they can’t just let one or two people do all the “dirty work.”
Out of Elmer’s Art Paste? Be sure to check out my blog post about Elmer’s Art Paste alternatives here.
3. Toilet Paper Sculptures: Fun for All
Again, I feel like most of the engaging art projects for boys include making 3D things that are a little messier. Here me out, I haven’t actually tried making the Toilet Paper Sculptures yet, but it’s on my TO-DO SOON list.
Here is a GREAT Youtube video from Bethany Theile that explains the process SO WELL. I can’t wait to try these with my students. I’ll be sure to post about that when I do!
4. Masking Tape Murals: Get Them Out of Your Classroom (hahaha)
I usually do “Op Art” projects with Art One students. But, last semester I decided to try something a little new to help my classes (with over 70% BOYS) get a little more active, stand up, move around, work together and also… get out in the hallway and out of my hair for a little while! I still walked around and supervised, but I would be lying if I didn’t enjoy the “break” from routine.
They loved this! Here are some of our murals… some of these photos are works in progress.
5. Grid Drawing Worksheet Packs:
Grid drawing sometimes works like a cheat code to confidence in drawing skills… especially for students who claim, “I can’t draw!” By breaking an image into smaller, manageable sections, boys can tackle detailed drawings without feeling overwhelmed. To make this something boys might be a little more interested in, I’ve created some new grid drawing worksheet packs featuring images that boys will actually want to draw, including:
- Fishing Pack – Perfect for students who love the outdoors, featuring fish, lures, and scenic fishing spots.
- Hunting Pack – Full of deer, antlers, and hunting images that will get sportsmen-in-training excited. This works well for some of the boys at my rural school! Keep in mind there are images of guns so use with your own discretion.
- Toys Pack – A nostalgic mix of classic and modern toys/action figures.
- Dogs Pack – Because who doesn’t love drawing dogs? This pack includes a variety of breeds. (This one is great for girls, too)
- Vintage Cars Pack – Classic hot rods and vintage vehicles for students who are all about speed and style.
- Sports Pack – Featuring action shots and equipment from popular sports, focusing on a lot of interesting texture.
For teachers looking for an all-in-one deal, I also offer all of these in a Growing bundle. They’re perfect for sub plans, warm-ups, or just giving students a structured way to improve their drawing skills.
Other Engaging Art Projects for Boys
If you’re looking for even more ways to get boys excited about art, try these ideas:
- Graffiti Name Designs – Let students create their own bold, graffiti-style names or phrases.
- Monster Mash-Ups – A fun exercise in creativity where students combine different animals, textures, and features to make a one-of-a-kind creature.
- Perspective Cityscapes – Teach one-point and two-point perspective by having students design futuristic cities or video game-inspired worlds.
- Comic Strips & Storyboards – Perfect for boys who love storytelling, comics, and action-packed scenes.
- Shoe Design Challenge – Task students with designing their dream sneaker using color theory and pattern design.
Why These Projects Work
The magic formula for engaging art projects for boys is simple: make it fun, make it relevant, and give them challenges they can get excited about. Whether they’re drawing vintage cars, battling monsters, or standing and adding masking tape to the wall, these projects provide structure while allowing for creativity and self-expression.
What art projects have worked best for engaging boys in your classroom? Drop your ideas in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s working for you!
