61 Fun and Easy Summer Crafts for Kids

Summer is the perfect time for kids to get creative and enjoy hands-on activities. With more free time and sunny weather, crafting becomes a great way to keep children entertained while boosting their imagination.

Whether you’re at home, at camp, or on vacation, these summer crafts for kids are simple, fun, and perfect for all ages.

1. Paper Plate Sun Craft

This cheerful craft lets kids create a bright sun using simple materials. They can paint and decorate a paper plate with yellow and orange colors to mimic sunlight. Adding strips of paper or yarn around the edges creates fun sun rays that make the project even more lively.

What you need:

• Paper plate – serves as the sun’s base
• Yellow and orange paint – to create the sun’s color
• Strips of paper or yarn – for the sun rays
• Glue – to attach the rays to the plate

Start by painting the paper plate with yellow and orange to resemble the sun. Once dry, glue strips of paper or yarn around the edges to form rays. Kids can customize the rays’ length and colors for extra creativity. This craft is easy to do and perfect for summer days.

Kids will love this craft because it’s bright, fun, and lets them feel the warmth of summer while being creative.

2. Popsicle Stick Boats

This craft combines building and water play by letting kids create simple boats from popsicle sticks. They glue sticks together to form a flat base and add a paper sail to make their boats sail in water.

What you need:

• Popsicle sticks – for the boat base
• Glue – to attach the sticks
• Paper – to make the sail
• String or toothpicks – to hold the sail

Glue the popsicle sticks side by side to form a flat boat base. Cut a small piece of paper into a sail shape and attach it to a toothpick or string mast, then fix it upright on the boat. Kids can float their boats in the bathtub or kiddie pool.

Children enjoy this craft because it allows them to create something they can play with in the water, combining creativity with outdoor fun.

3. Water Balloon Painting

This messy and colorful project is perfect for outdoors. Kids fill water balloons with washable paint and throw them at a canvas or large sheet of paper, creating surprising splashes of color.

What you need:

• Water balloons – to hold paint
• Washable paint – for colorful splashes
• Canvas or large paper – as a painting surface

Fill the water balloons with paint, being careful not to overfill. Kids throw the balloons at the canvas or paper to burst and create vibrant splatter patterns. This craft is best done outside for easy cleanup.

Kids love this activity because it’s exciting, unpredictable, and lets them make big colorful messes in a fun way.

4. Paper Fan

A simple cooling craft, kids fold paper accordion-style to create a fan they can decorate and use to beat the heat on hot days.

What you need:

• Paper – any kind, can be colored or plain
• Crayons or markers – for decoration
• Glue or tape – to secure the fan

Fold the paper back and forth accordion-style, then glue or tape one end to keep it closed. Kids can decorate the paper before folding with crayons, markers, or stickers. When opened, it forms a fan perfect for cooling down.

Children enjoy this craft because it’s quick, practical, and lets them personalize a tool to stay cool.

5. Handprint Campfire Art

Turn little hands into a bright and blazing campfire to capture those summer camping vibes. This warm and personal craft is great for seasonal decor or as a keepsake.

• What you need:
• Red, orange, and yellow paint – to create flame-colored handprints
• White paper – as the background
• Brown construction paper – to make the campfire logs
• Glue – for assembling the pieces
• Scissors – for cutting the logs

Paint your child’s hands with red, orange, and yellow, then press them onto the white paper in layers to form the flames of the campfire. Next, cut two brown rectangles from the construction paper and glue them beneath the flames to resemble wooden logs.

It’s a hands-on project that captures the spirit of summer and gives kids a chance to play with color and shape.

6. Wind Chimes

Turn ordinary household items into breezy backyard wind chimes. This craft combines creativity, sound, and a touch of nature, perfect for a quiet afternoon project.

What you need:

• Metal washers, keys, or small bells – to make the chime sounds
• String or yarn – for hanging the pieces
• A sturdy stick or small branch – as the base
• Paint and beads (optional) – for decoration
• Glue or tape – to secure knots

First, let kids decorate the stick or branch with paint or beads. Then tie string to several washers, keys, or bells, spacing them out so they don’t tangle. Attach each string to the branch, making sure they hang at different lengths. Once everything is secured, hang the finished chime outdoors where it can catch the breeze.

This craft lets kids explore sound and movement while making something beautiful to display in the garden or on a porch.

7. Pinecone Bird Feeders

A wonderful way to attract birds, kids spread peanut butter on pinecones and roll them in birdseed, then hang them outdoors.

What you need:

• Pinecones – as the base
• Peanut butter – sticky layer for seeds
• Birdseed – to attract birds
• String – to hang the feeder

Spread peanut butter all over the pinecone, then roll it in birdseed. Tie a string to the top and hang it from a tree branch. Kids will enjoy watching birds come to feed.

This craft is popular because it combines crafting with wildlife watching.

8. Shell Painting

Turn beach finds into colorful art by painting shells with bright colors, glitter, and stickers.

What you need:

• Shells – collected from the beach
• Acrylic or washable paint – for decorating
• Glitter and stickers – for extra fun

Clean the shells, then paint them with bright colors. Add glitter or stickers to decorate. Let dry before displaying or using as decoration.

Kids love this craft because it transforms simple shells into treasured keepsakes.

9. Tissue Paper Suncatchers

By cutting shapes from black paper and filling the centers with colorful tissue paper, kids create beautiful suncatchers to hang in windows.

What you need:

• Black paper – to cut shapes
• Colored tissue paper – to fill shapes
• Glue – to attach tissue paper

Cut shapes out of black paper leaving open centers. Glue colorful tissue paper pieces inside the shapes. Once dry, hang them in a window to catch the light.

Children enjoy this because the sunlight makes the colors glow beautifully.

10. Bubble Wrap Print Art

Kids paint on bubble wrap and press it onto paper to create textured prints, combining art and sensory fun.

What you need:

• Bubble wrap – for texture
• Paint – any washable kind
• Paper – to print on

Paint one side of bubble wrap, then press it onto paper to transfer the pattern. Kids can also pop some bubbles while crafting for added fun.

This craft is loved because it combines visual art with tactile play.

11. Ice Cube Painting

A cool twist on traditional painting, kids use frozen colored ice cubes with popsicle stick handles to paint on paper.

What you need:

• Water
• Food coloring or washable paint
• Ice cube tray
• Popsicle sticks

Mix water with food coloring or paint, pour into ice cube trays, and insert popsicle sticks before freezing. Kids then use the frozen cubes to paint on paper as the colors melt and blend.

Kids enjoy this because it’s both creative and refreshingly cool on a hot day.

12. Paper Bag Kites

Let kids soar into summer fun by making their own kites from paper lunch bags. With colorful decorations and flowing streamers, these simple kites are great for outdoor play on a breezy day.

What you need:

• Paper lunch bags – the base of the kite
• Markers, stickers, or paint – for decorating
• Crepe paper or ribbon – for the kite’s tail
• String – to fly the kite
• Tape or glue – to attach the string and tails

Have kids decorate their paper bags with bright colors and fun patterns. Attach crepe paper or ribbon to the bottom of the bag to create fluttering tails. Then tape string to the top to make it fly. These kites may not soar high, but they offer big fun for little hands.

This craft adds excitement to any breezy day and gives kids a sense of accomplishment as they see their creation take flight.

13. DIY Binoculars

Transform two toilet paper rolls into a fun set of binoculars for backyard adventures or pretend play. Kids can explore the world in a new way while getting creative with their decorations.

What you need:

• Two toilet paper rolls – for the binocular lenses
• Glue or tape – to attach the rolls
• String or yarn – for the neck strap
• Markers, stickers, or paint – to decorate

Glue or tape the toilet paper rolls side by side. Decorate them with bright colors, animal prints, or favorite themes. Punch a hole on each side and tie on a string to make a strap. These binoculars are great for safari roleplay or spotting birds in the yard.

They’ll enjoy using their handmade binoculars to explore the world around them in imaginative play.

14. Painted Rocks

This craft brings art and nature together. Kids can collect smooth rocks and transform them into colorful creatures, patterns, or messages that brighten up any space.

What you need:

• Smooth rocks – as the canvas
• Acrylic paint or paint pens – for decorating
• Brushes – for painting details
• Sealant (optional) – to protect the design

Let kids clean and dry the rocks first. Then they can paint anything they like, ladybugs, rainbows, animals, or inspiring words. Once the paint is dry, use a sealant if desired for outdoor use.

They’ll love turning plain rocks into colorful creations that can brighten up any garden or room.

15. Cupcake Liner Flowers

Create a garden of cheerful flowers using colorful cupcake liners. These easy-to-make blossoms are perfect as summer decorations or handmade gifts.

What you need:

• Cupcake liners – for the flower petals
• Pom-poms or buttons – for the flower center
• Paper straws or pipe cleaners – for the stem
• Glue – to assemble the flower

Flatten and layer the cupcake liners to create petal shapes. Glue a pom-pom or button in the center, then attach a straw or pipe cleaner to the back for a stem. Kids can make bouquets in different colors and sizes.

Kids will have fun layering the liners and picking their favorite colors to build beautiful blossoms.

16. Coffee Filter Butterflies

With a splash of color and a little water, kids can turn coffee filters into beautiful butterflies that mimic a tie-dye effect. These are perfect for window displays or pretend play.

What you need:

• Coffee filters – for the wings
• Markers – to add color
• Spray bottle with water – to blend colors
• Clothespins – for the butterfly body
• Pipe cleaners – for antennae

Color the coffee filters with markers, then mist lightly with water to blend the colors. Once dry, pinch the center and clip it with a clothespin. Add twisted pipe cleaners for antennae to complete the look.

They’ll be delighted by how the colors blend together to create unique, tie-dye-style wings.

17. Pool Noodle Creatures

Give leftover pool noodles a fun twist by turning them into silly floating creatures. This craft is full of character and great for summer water play.

What you need:

• Pool noodles – cut into small sections
• Googly eyes – to give personality
• Pipe cleaners – for arms, legs, or antennas
• Stickers, foam shapes – for decoration
• Glue or toothpicks – to attach accessories

Cut the noodles into smaller pieces and let kids decorate them however they like. Add googly eyes, stick on foam pieces, and use pipe cleaners to create arms or tentacles. These creatures can float in the bath or pool.

Creating silly, floating critters adds an extra splash of fun to pool time or bath time., and doubles as a water toy.

18. Ocean in a Bottle

Bring the sea indoors with this calming and colorful craft. Kids can shake their homemade bottle to watch glitter and tiny sea creatures float in a soothing, ocean-like swirl.

What you need:

• Clear plastic bottle – to hold the ocean scene
• Water – as the base
• Blue food coloring – to color the water
• Glitter – for sparkle
• Small sea-themed toys – like plastic fish or shells
• Glue or tape – to seal the lid tightly

Fill the bottle two-thirds with water, then add blue food coloring, glitter, and toys. Seal the cap with glue or tape to prevent leaks. Kids can shake and watch their ocean swirl, making it a perfect sensory craft.

Watching the glitter swirl like ocean waves is both relaxing and fascinating for kids of all ages.

19. Painted Flower Pots

Let kids brighten up the garden by painting their own flower pots. This craft combines creativity with a hands-on nature activity they can continue to care for all summer.

What you need:

• Small terracotta pots – for planting
• Acrylic paint – for decorating the pots
• Brushes – for painting
• Soil and flower or herb seeds – for planting

Paint and decorate the pots with bright colors, patterns, or even names. Once dry, add soil and plant seeds or small flowers. Water regularly and watch them grow!

They’ll enjoy expressing themselves through painting and feel proud to care for their very own plant.

20. Egg Carton Bugs

Turn old egg cartons into a swarm of adorable bugs. With a little paint and some pipe cleaners, kids can create a colorful collection of creepy-crawlies.

What you need:

• Egg cartons – cut into individual sections
• Acrylic paint – to color the bugs
• Pipe cleaners – for legs and antennae
• Googly eyes – to bring them to life
• Glue – to assemble

Cut the egg cartons into individual or double sections. Paint them like ladybugs, caterpillars, or beetles. Add googly eyes and twist pipe cleaners into legs and antennae.

Creating tiny bug friends from recycled materials is both imaginative and satisfying.

21. Sand Art Jars

Let kids layer colorful sand to make eye-catching art in a jar. This classic summer craft helps with fine motor skills and color recognition while producing beautiful results.

What you need:

• Clear jars or bottles – to display the sand
• Colored sand – available at craft stores or DIY with dyed salt
• Small funnels or spoons – for pouring the sand

Using a funnel or spoon, layer different colors of sand into the jar, creating patterns or abstract designs. Fill to the top and seal the lid to preserve the art.

They’ll enjoy layering the colors and admiring the unique patterns they’ve made.

22. Paper Cup Ice Cream Cones

Create pretend ice cream cones with paper cups and tissue paper. This craft is sweet, colorful, and perfect for summertime pretend play.

What you need:

• Paper cups – as the cone
• Tissue paper or cotton balls – for scoops
• Paint, crayons, or markers – to decorate
• Glue – to attach the scoops

Turn the paper cup upside down and decorate it to look like a waffle cone. Then crumple tissue paper or use cotton balls to form colorful scoops of “ice cream” and glue them on top.

It’s a playful way to combine crafting with pretend play, sweet fun without the mess.

23. Popsicle Stick Picture Frames

Kids can create their own frames using popsicle sticks to showcase favorite photos or art. These make sweet keepsakes and handmade gifts.

What you need:

• Popsicle sticks – to build the frame
• Glue – to hold it together
• Paint, stickers, or shells – for decorating
• A small photo or drawing – to insert

Glue four sticks into a square or rectangle to form a frame. Decorate with summer-themed items like shells or bright paint. Add a photo or mini artwork to the back.

Kids will enjoy decorating the frame and displaying their artwork or photo proudly.

24. Leaf Rubbings

Turn nature into art with this easy, educational craft. Kids can discover the textures and patterns hidden in leaves using crayons and paper.

What you need:

• Leaves – freshly picked and flat
• White paper – for the rubbings
• Crayons or colored pencils – to reveal the leaf texture

Place a leaf under a sheet of paper and gently rub a crayon or pencil across the top. The leaf’s shape and veins will appear like magic.

They’ll be amazed by the details hidden in nature and how easily they can reveal them.

25. Melted Crayon Art

Make vibrant, abstract art by melting old crayon pieces. Kids can enjoy the process of dripping and blending wax into one-of-a-kind masterpieces.

What you need:

• Broken crayons (wrappers removed) – for melting
• Muffin tins or heat-safe cups – to hold crayons
• Spoon or dropper – to apply melted wax
• White paper or canvas – as the base
• Adult supervision – for melting the crayons

Melt the crayon bits in a muffin tin using low heat (oven or hair dryer). Carefully drip the wax onto paper and let the colors swirl and mix.

Watching the wax melt and mix is mesmerizing, and the final artwork feels like a colorful surprise.

26. Popsicle Stick Catapults

Kids can build mini catapults and launch pom-poms across the room. This STEM-inspired craft mixes building with hands-on fun.

What you need:

• Popsicle sticks – to build the frame
• Rubber bands – to hold parts together
• Plastic spoon – for launching
• Pom-poms – to use as soft projectiles

Stack and bind popsicle sticks using rubber bands to create a stable base. Attach the spoon on top to form a lever. Load a pom-pom, press, and release to launch!

They’ll have a blast launching pom-poms and experimenting with how far they can fly.

27. Painted Seashell Necklaces

Turn beach finds into beautiful, wearable art. Kids can paint seashells and string them into colorful necklaces or bracelets.

What you need:

• Seashells – with holes or drilled (by an adult)
• Acrylic paint – for decorating
• String or yarn – for the necklace
• Beads (optional) – for added flair

Paint the seashells in bright summer colors and patterns. Once dry, thread them onto a string with beads if desired. Tie the ends to complete the necklace.

Turning beach treasures into jewelry makes this craft extra special and personal.

28. Paper Chain Garland

Add a pop of color to any room with a festive paper chain garland. This easy craft is great for practicing cutting and gluing skills.

What you need:

• Colored paper – for the chain links
• Scissors – to cut the strips
• Glue or tape – to connect the loops

Cut strips of paper, loop the first strip into a circle, and secure it. Continue looping each strip through the last to create a chain.

Kids will enjoy seeing the chain grow longer and brighter with each colorful loop they add.

29. Nature Walk Scavenger Hunt

Turn a walk into an adventure with a scavenger hunt! Kids collect items from nature and turn them into a creative collage.

What you need:

• Scavenger hunt list – with things like leaves, pinecones, and feathers
• Paper or cardboard – as a collage base
• Glue – to attach the found items

Take a nature walk with a checklist in hand. Once home, glue the collected treasures onto paper to create a nature-inspired art piece.

It’s a fun mix of outdoor exploration and creative expression they’ll remember all summer.

30. Watercolor Resist Art

Create magical art by combining crayons and watercolor paint. This technique reveals hidden designs as kids paint.

What you need:

• White paper – for the artwork
• White crayon – to draw the design
• Watercolor paints – to reveal the design
• Brush and water – for painting

Draw a design using a white crayon. Then brush watercolor paint over the page, the crayon resists the paint, making the hidden design appear.

They’ll love the magical reveal of their hidden drawings as the watercolor brings them to life.

31. Clothespin Butterflies

This fun project lets kids turn simple clothespins into colorful butterflies. They can paint and decorate the clothespins, add wings made from paper or coffee filters, and clip them onto strings or plants.

What you need:

• Glue – to attach the wings
• Wooden clothespins – the body of the butterfly
• Paint and brushes – for decorating the clothespins
• Colored paper or coffee filters – to make the wings

This project gives kids the chance to combine crafting with a bit of movement, making their creations come to life as hanging decorations.

32. Water Gun Painting

Perfect for outdoor fun, kids use water guns filled with paint to spray designs on large sheets of paper.

What you need:

• Water guns – for spraying paint
• Washable paint – mixed with water
• Large paper or canvas – for painting

Fill water guns with watered-down paint. Let kids spray the paint onto paper taped to a fence or easel. Let dry before displaying.

This craft is a favorite because it mixes art with action and outdoor excitement.

33. Paper Plate Animals

Turn simple plates into a parade of animal faces! Lions, pigs, frogs, you name it. With paint and paper, your kitchen table becomes a mini zoo.

What you need:

• Paper plates – the base of the animals
• Paint – to color the plates
• Construction paper – to cut ears, noses, or tails
• Glue and scissors – to assemble the features

Paint your plate the base color. Cut and glue on ears, eyes, and noses. Add details with markers to bring your creature to life.

Kids can let their imaginations run wild while turning ordinary paper plates into a parade of animals, from jungle creatures to sea life.

34. Popsicle Stick Puppets

Make your own puppet cast with popsicle sticks and paper cutouts. Whether you want to tell fairy tales or invent brand-new characters, this craft brings imagination to center stage.

What you need:

• Popsicle sticks – for puppet handles
• Colored paper – to make characters or animals
• Markers and crayons – to decorate
• Glue – to attach paper parts to the sticks

Draw your characters, decorate them, and glue them to popsicle sticks. Now it’s showtime!

These simple puppets open up a world of pretend play and storytelling, perfect for sparking creativity.

35. Friendship Bracelets

Tie, braid, and knot your way into handmade tokens of friendship. This traditional craft is full of color, creativity, and heartfelt intention.

What you need:

• Embroidery floss or yarn – the main material for braiding
• Tape or clipboard – to hold the threads in place
• Scissors – to cut the threads

Cut strands, secure the top, and start braiding. Mix colors and patterns as you go. Tie it up and gift it to someone special.

Braiding and sharing these bracelets is a fun way for kids to express friendship and practice patience and coordination.

36. Paper Windsocks

These colorful windsocks flutter in the breeze and are a great way to decorate porches or gardens.

What you need:

• Construction paper – for the main body
• Tissue paper or streamers – for the tails
• Glue or tape – to assemble
• String – to hang it

Roll the construction paper into a tube and glue or tape it. Attach strips of tissue paper to the bottom and a string on top. Hang it outdoors and watch it flutter.

Kids enjoy this because it moves in the wind and brightens up outdoor spaces.

37. Yarn Wrapped Letters

Turn cardboard letters into fuzzy, colorful room décor using yarn and imagination. From initials to full names, this craft adds personality to any space.

What you need:

• Cardboard letters – to serve as the base
• Yarn – for wrapping and decorating
• Tape or glue – to secure the yarn ends

Wrap yarn tightly around each letter until fully covered. Secure ends with glue or a knot.

Personalizing letters with colorful yarn gives kids a sense of ownership and makes great keepsakes or bedroom decorations.

38. Sandcastle Building Kits

Who says sandcastles are only for the beach? Bring the magic of castle building home with a personal sand kit perfect for sculpting indoors or out.

What you need:

• Plastic container – to hold the sand
• Clean play sand – for building
• Small plastic tools or spoons – to shape the castles

Fill trays with sand, add tools, and let the architectural fun begin!

Kids can enjoy hours of imaginative play shaping their own mini sand worlds, whether they’re at the beach or in the backyard.

39. Straw Rockets

This fast-paced craft lets kids design their own mini rockets and launch them using just a straw and their breath, no batteries or engines required.

What you need:

• Paper – to make the rocket body
• Markers – for decorating
• Tape – to seal the rocket
• Straws – to launch the rockets

Start by cutting a small rectangle of paper and rolling it around a pencil to form a tube. Tape the tube closed and seal one end to trap the air. Kids can decorate the rocket with markers before slipping it onto a straw and blowing through it to launch.

Kids will love this craft because it turns their breath into rocket fuel and makes indoor play exciting.

41. Painted Tin Can Planters

Give old cans a second life as cheerful homes for plants. With some paint and imagination, you’ll have instant garden charm, indoors or out.

What you need:

• Clean tin cans – for planting
• Acrylic paint – to decorate the cans
• Soil and seeds – to grow flowers or herbs
• Paintbrushes – for decorating

Paint the outside of the can, let it dry, and fill with soil and a plant.

Decorating cans and planting in them introduces kids to gardening in a fun, hands-on way they can take care of themselves.

42. Beach Scene Collage

Let kids recreate their dream beach day with a fun and textured collage. Using a mix of materials, they can build a scene filled with waves, sand, and sunshine straight from their imagination.

What you need:

• Construction paper or cardstock – as the base for the collage
• Sand – real or craft sand for texture
• Glue – to attach all elements
• Small shells, beads, or pebbles – to decorate the beach
• Crayons or markers – for drawing sky, sun, or beachgoers
• Stickers – optional for extra decoration

Have kids glue down blue paper or color in the ocean, then spread glue in a designated area and sprinkle sand on top to create the beach. Add small shells, draw in beach umbrellas or swimmers, and finish with stickers or additional details.

This project offers a hands-on way to bring summer memories or vacation dreams to life.

43. Paper Plate Frisbees

Turn ordinary paper plates into flying fun with this easy craft. With a little glue and imagination, kids can make and decorate their own lightweight frisbees for backyard or indoor play.

What you need:

• Two paper plates – the core structure of the frisbee
• Glue – to stick the plates together
• Markers, crayons, or stickers – for decorating

Glue the two paper plates together, bottom sides facing each other to create a rounded edge. Once dry, kids can decorate their frisbee with colors, drawings, or stickers before heading outside to toss it around.

They’ll enjoy seeing their personalized creation soar through the air in a fun and active way.

44. Paper Roll Rockets

Ready for launch? Use recycled paper rolls to build and decorate your own mini rocket ships, then blast off into make-believe.

What you need:

• Toilet paper rolls – for the rocket body
• Colored paper – to make fins and nose cones
• Glue – to assemble parts
• Markers – to add designs

Paint the tube, cut and attach fins and a cone, and add flames or windows.

Designing and “launching” their own rockets encourages imagination and makes learning about space exciting.

45. Footprint Art

Turn painted feet into summer masterpieces by transforming footprints into animals, emojis, and more! It’s a great way to create keepsakes and lots of giggles.

What you need:

• Washable paint – for painting the feet
• Paper or canvas – to stamp the footprints
• Markers – to add faces, scenery, or extra details
• Wet wipes or soap and water – for easy cleanup

Start by painting the bottom of your child’s foot and pressing it gently onto a sheet of paper. Once it dries, use markers to turn the print into a fish, crab, or even a flamingo. Add waves, sun, and other touches to complete the picture.

The process is playful, and the results make for memorable art that’s both personal and fun.

46. Paper Plate Jellyfish

Turn a simple paper plate into a floating jellyfish with streamers and cheerful decorations. This easy summer craft brightens any space and gives kids a chance to learn about sea creatures.

What you need:

• Paper plate – forms the jellyfish’s body
• Streamers or ribbon – act as the jellyfish’s tentacles
• Markers or paint – to decorate the jellyfish
• String – for hanging
• Glue or tape – to attach streamers

Cut the bottom half of a paper plate into wavy strips for tentacles or glue streamers underneath the plate. Decorate the top with a jellyfish face and colors of your choice. Hang it with string from the ceiling or in a window.

This project brings a splash of the ocean indoors and adds movement and color to any room.

47. Nature Stamp Art

Capture nature’s textures with this hands-on stamping activity. Kids use real leaves, flowers, or pinecones to print unique patterns on paper.

What you need:

• Leaves, pinecones, flowers – provide natural stamping textures
• Paint – adds color to your prints
• Paper – your stamping canvas
• Paintbrush – to coat natural materials evenly

Brush paint lightly onto a leaf or pinecone, press it firmly onto paper, and lift to reveal a print. Repeat with different shapes and colors.

It’s a creative way to observe details in nature and turn them into lasting artwork.

48. Button Art Pictures

Let kids turn loose buttons into colorful works of art. Arrange them into shapes or patterns for a craft that’s fun and visually rich.

What you need:

• Buttons – in different sizes, shapes, and colors
• Cardstock or cardboard – a sturdy base
• Glue – to hold buttons in place
• Pencil – optional, to sketch designs first

Draw simple outlines and fill them with button arrangements. Make flowers, animals, or abstract designs.

Each creation is unique, offering endless possibilities for personalization and expression.

49. Ice Cream Cone Puppets

Bring playtime to life with puppets made from paper cones. These silly characters are great for storytelling and imagination.

What you need:

• Construction paper – to form cones and faces
• Yarn – for hair
• Glue and scissors – for assembly
• Markers – to draw faces and details

Roll paper into a cone, glue on paper faces and yarn hair, then decorate with personality. Kids can create multiple characters for a puppet show.

These puppets spark laughter, creativity, and pretend play all in one go.

50. DIY Paper Hats

From pirates to princesses, kids can design and wear their own paper hats for imaginative play.

What you need:

• Large sheets of paper – to fold into hats
• Tape or glue – to hold folds in place
• Markers, stickers, or paint – for decorating

Fold paper into classic hat shapes like crowns or newspaper hats. Decorate with designs, names, or glitter.

A simple craft that turns into a costume and hours of dress-up fun.

51. Painted Clothespin Bugs

Transform clothespins into playful bugs using paint and craft supplies. Kids can invent new species or mimic real insects.

What you need:

• Wooden clothespins – the bug’s body
• Paint – for color and pattern
• Pipe cleaners – form legs and antennae
• Googly eyes – add character
• Glue – to hold pieces together

Paint the clothespins, then add googly eyes and twist pipe cleaners around the middle. Bend for legs and fun poses.

They’re great for decoration or pretend play adventures outdoors.

52. Popsicle Stick Starfish

Create beach-themed starfish from popsicle sticks, perfect for a summer vibe.

What you need:

• Popsicle sticks – the base structure
• Paint – for color
• Glitter or sequins – for sparkle
• Googly eyes – optional, for fun details
• Glue – to assemble and decorate

Glue five sticks in a star shape, paint and decorate. Add glitter or eyes for extra personality.

These make fun keepsakes or additions to beach-themed crafts.

53. Bubble Painting

Turn bubble blowing into a colorful painting experiment.

What you need:

• Bubble solution – forms the base
• Food coloring or washable paint – to tint the bubbles
• Straws – for blowing bubbles
• Paper – to catch the bubble prints

Mix color into bubble solution, dip the straw, and blow bubbles onto the paper. As they pop, they leave beautiful patterns.

A sensory-rich activity that combines motion, art, and surprise.

54. Leaf Crowns

Turn a walk into a wearable project with leafy crowns.

What you need:

• Large leaves – the crown’s decoration
• Construction paper or cardstock – forms the crown base
• Glue or tape – to secure the leaves
• Scissors – to cut the band to size

Wrap a strip of paper around the head, glue leaves along the band, and secure it into a crown.

A great blend of outdoor discovery and dress-up fun.

55. Painted Sand Dollars

If you have beachcombed sand dollars, let kids decorate them with bright paint and imagination.

What you need:

• Sand dollars – cleaned and dry
• Acrylic paint – sticks well to surfaces
• Small paintbrushes – for detail work

Gently paint designs on the flat surface. Flowers, rainbows, or faces work great.

This makes a unique keepsake from a day at the beach.

56. Paper Fish Garland

Decorate your space with a string of colorful paper fish.

What you need:

• Colored paper – for fish shapes
• String or yarn – to hang them
• Markers, stickers – to personalize
• Scissors and glue – for cutting and assembly

Cut out multiple fish, decorate them, then attach them to string for a festive garland.

It’s perfect for parties or summer room decor.

57. Craft Stick Tents

This tiny tent craft lets kids build their own campsite from simple materials. It’s perfect for creating scenes with toy animals, campers, or even for storytelling play.

What you need:

• Craft sticks – to form the tent frame
• Glue – for holding sticks together
• Paper or felt – to use as the tent covering
• Markers or stickers – for decorating
• Mini figurines – optional for playing inside the tent

Glue craft sticks into a triangle shape for the tent’s frame. Once dry, glue paper or fabric over the top to act as the tent covering. Decorate it with patterns, names, or designs. Add small toys or nature elements around for a full camping scene.

Kids will enjoy setting up their miniature campsite and creating stories around it.

58. Painted Mason Jars

Turn mason jars into bright containers or lanterns.

What you need:

• Mason jars – the base container
• Glass paint – adheres well to glass
• Paintbrushes – for applying color
• Tea light candles (optional) – for lantern use

Paint fun patterns on the jars and let dry. Add a candle inside or use for storage.

A functional project that looks great indoors or outdoors.

59. Feather Mobile

Bring a breeze to craft time with this nature-inspired mobile.

What you need:

• Sticks, feathers, leaves – collected outdoors
• String – to hang items
• A large stick – the mobile’s base
• Scissors – to cut string

Tie leaves, feathers, and other finds to strings and hang from a branch. Balance the weight evenly for a spinning effect.

A gentle way to celebrate nature and movement.

60. Rainbow Pasta Necklace

Kids can create colorful accessories with dyed pasta.

What you need:

• Dry pasta (tube-shaped) – to thread
• Food coloring – to color pasta
• Vinegar or rubbing alcohol – to help dye set
• String or yarn – to create the necklace

Dye pasta by soaking in colored vinegar, let dry, then string together.

The result is a wearable, vibrant reminder of craft time.

61. Tissue Paper Flowers

These soft, colorful flowers are easy to make and add a bright pop to any craft display or gift. Layering and fluffing the paper brings the blossoms to life.

What you need:

• Tissue paper – in assorted colors
• Scissors – to cut the paper into flower shapes
• Pipe cleaners or twist ties – to hold and form the stem

Stack several sheets of tissue paper and fold them accordion-style. Wrap a pipe cleaner around the center, trim the ends into rounded or pointed petals, then gently pull apart the layers to fluff up the flower.

The vibrant, handmade blooms are cheerful and satisfying to create, whether used for decorating or just for fun.

FAQs for Summer Crafts

1. What are some easy summer crafts for toddlers?

Simple crafts like handprint art, paper plate suns, and sponge painting are great for toddlers. They are safe, colorful, and fun to do with supervision.

2. What materials do I need for summer crafts at home?

Basic items like paper, glue, scissors, markers, and recycled materials are usually enough. You can add items like popsicle sticks, string, and paint for more variety.

3. How can I keep kids engaged in crafting during summer?

Choose short, colorful, and interactive crafts. Let kids pick their own projects, and join in to make it a shared activity.

4. Are summer crafts educational?

Yes! Crafts help develop creativity, fine motor skills, color recognition, and even early STEM skills through activities like building, measuring, and experimenting.

5. What are the best crafts for a rainy summer day?

Indoor crafts like tissue paper suncatchers, egg carton bugs, paper kites, and rainbow pasta necklaces are perfect for rainy days. They require minimal cleanup and keep kids entertained inside.

Conclusion

Summer crafts offer children more than just a way to pass time; they build creativity, confidence, and joy. With simple materials and a bit of imagination, kids can make colorful, fun projects that keep their hands and minds active. Whether indoors or outside, these easy and fun summer craft ideas will make the season even more special.