Summer holidays—those glorious weeks that children countdown to and parents approach with equal parts excitement and mild panic.
Just three days in, the novelty of unstructured time fades, and that dreaded phrase—”I’m bored”—begins echoing through households everywhere.
Before surrendering to endless screens or expensive outings, consider the humble craft project. These DIY summer craft ideas use materials you likely already have, don’t require artistic expertise, and won’t leave your home looking like a glitter bomb exploded.
These are perfect for rainy afternoons, too-hot days, or those moments when everyone could do with a break from digital stimulation.
1. Hand Print Frog
Create a mini wetland ecosystem with this clever craft. The handprint frog sitting on a lily pad is absolutely ribbiting—plus it’s a sweet keepsake of those tiny summer fingers.
2. Garden Suncatcher Wind Chime
Preserve summer’s natural beauty in these stunning jar lid displays. The perfect excuse for a nature walk to gather blooms before transforming them into hanging garden art.
3. People Paper Fans
Beat the heat with these expressive paper fans that serve a practical purpose. With different personalities on each one, kids can create an entire character collection while staying cool.
4. Pom Pom Ice Cream Cones
Who needs the real thing when these never-melt treats look just as delicious? Create summer’s favorite snack with fluffy pom poms in mint, chocolate, and strawberry “flavors,” complete with burlap cones and cherry toppers.
RELATED: 8 Cute Pom Pom Craft Ideas To Make
5. Paper Plate Puffer Fish
This spiky little sea creature makes for a perfect afternoon project. Simply add toothpicks to a painted plate, attach googly eyes, and you’ve got an adorable underwater friend that doubles as a lesson in marine life.
6. Craft Stick Octopus
These friendly sea creatures come to life with painted sticks and paper circles. The perfect craft for working on counting and pattern-making skills while creating something utterly charming.
RELATED: 12 Adorable DIY Seashell Craft Ideas For Kids
7. Floral Foam Buoys
Transform foam blocks into charming nautical decorations with these striped buoys. With summery shades of blue, coral, and green, they’ll bring beach vibes to any space—no sailing skills required.
8. Toilet Paper Roll Bees
Transform loo rolls into buzzy bees with this simple upcycling project. With black stripes, googly eyes, and pipe cleaner antennae, they’re a brilliant way to chat about pollinators while crafting.
9. Earth Day Cardboard Sun
This radiant craft doubles as a perfect photo opportunity. The bold colors and abstract face create a sunshine that’s as unique as the child behind it—a true celebration of summer’s brightest star!
10. Colourful Luggage Tags
Add some summer flair to backpacks and suitcases with these playful accessories. From strawberries to dinosaurs to bananas, these quirky combos keep summer vibes going all year long.
11. DIY Pina Colada Soap
These tropical treats aren’t for eating! Create sweet-smelling pineapple-shaped soaps that make bath time more fun and double as adorable gifts for friends and family.
12. Paper Plate Llamas
These adorable paper plate llamas bring trendy vibes to craft time. With colorful saddle blankets and sweet expressions, they’re perfect for inspiring imaginative play about exotic adventures.