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When summer rolls around, I’m always hunting for new and creative ways to spend time or keep friends and family entertained. Craft projects seriously liven up a summer day, and honestly, it’s satisfying to use up random materials I already have at home.
The right craft ideas help me stay busy, spark creativity, and make something special, indoors or outdoors. Summer crafts offer a nice mix of chill time and hands-on fun, and honestly, anyone can give them a try.
1. Tie-dye beach towels with spiral and swirl patterns
For tie-dye, I grab a big white towel, pinch the middle, and twist it into a spiral. Rubber bands hold it together while I add different dye colors to each section. Once it dries, I rinse it out—and it’s ready for the beach or backyard.
2. Water gun painting on canvas with painter’s tape designs
I stick painter’s tape on a canvas in whatever shapes I want, then spray paint with water guns. After it dries, I peel the tape off and the designs are super crisp. It’s a little messy, but that’s part of the fun.
3. Painted terracotta flower pots with bright summer themes
Plain terracotta pots honestly look a bit boring, so I turn them into colorful planters for summer. Acrylic paint works best, and I usually go for simple fruit, polka dot, or stripe patterns. They really brighten up my porch.
4. Friendship bracelets in vibrant summer colors
Making friendship bracelets with bright threads—think pink, turquoise, yellow, green—never gets old. I can pick color combos that totally remind me of the beach or sunshine. Plus, they’re quick gifts for friends.
5. Paper flower crafts using colored tissue paper
Paper flowers are my go-to when I want something cheerful. I grab colored tissue paper, then fold, layer, and twist it together to make bright, simple flowers. They add a pop of color to any day.
6. Custom decorated pet cactus rocks
Pet cactus rocks are surprisingly cute and easy. I pick out smooth rocks, paint them green, and add white lines or dots for detail. Googly eyes give each one a little personality. They look fun on a desk or shelf—plus, no watering required!
7. Handprint art on cardboard for outdoor play
Cardboard and washable paint are all I need for handprint art outside. Kids press their painted hands onto the cardboard to make shapes or animals. It’s fast to set up and easy to clean up (sort of).
8. Paper plate suns with glued-on tissue paper rays
I cut a circle from a paper plate and glue on yellow and orange tissue paper for the sun’s rays. Overlapping the tissue paper makes the colors pop even more.
9. Homemade no-cook playdough for sensory fun
No-cook playdough is a lifesaver—quick, safe, and super simple. I just mix flour, salt, water, oil, and food coloring. It’s perfect for sensory play on warm days, and I don’t have to worry about little ones sneaking a taste.
10. Beach-themed collage using sand and shells
I make collages with real sand and shells from the beach. I spread glue on paper, sprinkle sand, and press shells on top for a simple beach scene. It’s a little messy, but worth it.
11. Spray bottle watercolor art on thick paper
Thick paper is key here so the paint doesn’t soak through. I fill spray bottles with watercolor paint and spritz away for colorful patterns. It dries fast, and the results are always a surprise.
12. Origami sea creatures from colored paper
Origami sea creatures are quick and fun. I use colored paper to fold fish, crabs, or turtles. It’s a simple way to bring a little ocean vibe to summer afternoons.
13. Glow-in-the-dark star jars using mason jars
I paint star shapes and dots inside mason jars with glow paint. After charging under a lamp, the jars glow at night. They make surprisingly nice night lights.
14. Popsicle stick photo frames decorated with beads
I glue popsicle sticks into a square or rectangle, then add colorful beads around the edges. A small photo goes in the center, and after it dries, it’s ready for display.
15. Nature leaf rubbings with crayons and paper
I like heading outside and picking up a handful of interesting leaves. I slip them under a sheet of paper and grab a crayon—usually whatever color’s closest. Using the side of the crayon, I rub across the paper, and suddenly all the little veins and edges show up. It’s kind of amazing how each leaf leaves its own unique pattern behind, honestly.
