Best Summer Arts and Crafts: Fun Activities for the Whole Family - CraftyThinking (2024)

Explore the vibrant world of summer arts and crafts!

From easy summer crafts for kids to intricate DIY projects for adults, this is a treasure trove of creativity.

Whether you’re looking to beat the boredom or create memorable family moments, these activities promise endless fun.

Read on to discover the magic of the 25 Best Summer Arts and Crafts and why this guide is a must-read for every craft enthusiast.

You might also like:

• Fall Picture Ideas
• Activities for Spring
• Activities for Fall
• Activities for Winter
• What is the importance of time?
• What are the types of crafts?
• What is the importance of art in your life?
• 100 joys of life.
• Why reading is important?
• Parent tips.
• Tips to Make Your Child Love Reading

Easy Summer Crafts for Kids

Ah, summer! The season of sunshine, laughter, and endless fun.

As a family enthusiast who cherishes every moment with the little ones, I can’t help but get excited about the plethora of Summer Crafts and crafty adventures that await.

Crafting not only fosters creativity but also strengthens the bond between family members.

So, let’s dive into these delightful 25 Easy Summer Crafts for Kids that are perfect for kids and guaranteed to keep them engaged all summer long!

1. Paper Plate Sunshines

Ah, the classic paper plate craft! Transform ordinary paper plates into radiant sunshines.

Paint the plate yellow, and use orange and red strips of paper for the sun’s rays.

This activity is not only easy and fun but also a great way for kids to express their artistic side.

2. Ice Cream Cone Crafts

Who doesn’t love ice cream during summer?

Using cupcake liners, craft paper, and some paint, kids can create their own colorful ice cream cones.

It’s a delightful project that brings the essence of summer indoors.

3. Ocean-Inspired Crafts

Dive into the world of ocean animals with crafts inspired by starfish, mermaids, and other marine creatures.

Using craft paper, beads, and some glitter, kids can create their own underwater kingdom.

4. Handprint Summer Trees

Capture the essence of summer with handprint trees. Paint the palm green for the leaves and the arm brown for the trunk. It’s a simple idea, yet it creates a memorable piece of art to hang in your home.

5. Popsicle Stick Crafts

From colorful popsicle stick frames to mini beach chairs, the crafting possibilities are endless.

Kids can paint and decorate them in various ways, making each creation unique.

6. Chalk Pastel Art

Let your kids’ creativity soar as they use chalk pastels to create vibrant summer scenes, from sunsets to beach landscapes.

It’s a fun art activity that’s perfect for the patio or driveway.

7. Beaded Necklaces

Crafting beaded necklaces is not only fun but also helps improve fine motor skills.

Choose beads in vibrant summer colors, and let the kids design their own jewelry.

8. Stained Glass Butterflies

Using tissue paper and black craft paper, kids can create beautiful stained glass butterflies that can be hung in windows.

When the sunlight shines through, the effect is mesmerizing.

9. Summer Camp Crafts

If your kids are attending summer camp or you’re hosting one at home, crafts like friendship bracelets or nature-inspired art are perfect.

They’re not only engaging but also create lasting memories.

10. Tropical Bird Crafts

Using craft paper, feathers, and googly eyes, kids can craft their own tropical birds.

It’s a delightful project that brings a touch of the tropics to your home.

11. Seashell Wind Chimes

Collect seashells during your beach visits and transform them into melodious wind chimes.

It’s a beautiful way to preserve those beach memories.

12. Footprint Sandals

Using craft foam, kids can trace their footprints and create their own decorative sandals.

Decorate with beads, sequins, and more!

13. Melted Crayon Rocks

Heat up rocks in the sun and let kids draw on them using crayons.

The crayons will melt, creating a beautiful effect.

14. Nature Collages

Collect leaves, twigs, and flowers and let kids create their own nature collages.

It’s a great way to explore the outdoors and bring it inside.

15. Bottle Cap Bugs

Using old bottle caps, paint, and some googly eyes, kids can create their own set of summer bugs.

It’s a fun recycling project that’s perfect for younger kids.

16. Sponge Water Bombs

For some outdoor fun, craft sponge water bombs.

They’re reusable and provide hours of entertainment.

17. Tie-Dye T-Shirts

Using dye, kids can create their own tie-dye t-shirts.

It’s a classic summer activity that never goes out of style.

18. Fruit Stamps

Cut fruits like apples or potatoes in half and let kids use them as stamps.

It’s a fun and colorful art project.

19. Sun Catchers

Using beads or colored tissue paper, kids can create sun catchers that sparkle in the sunlight.

20. Fairy Gardens

Craft miniature fairy gardens using small plants, pebbles, and fairy figurines.

It’s a magical project that kids will adore.

21. Sand Art

Using colored sand, kids can create beautiful layered art in glass jars or bottles.

22. Paper Pinwheels

Craft colorful pinwheels that spin in the summer breeze.

Kids can decorate them with stickers, glitter, and more.

23. Clay Sea Creatures

Using air-dry clay, kids can sculpt their own sea creatures, from turtles to octopuses.

24. Glow-in-the-Dark Crafts

From glow-in-the-dark slime to painted rocks, these crafts are perfect for summer nights.

25. Nature Paintbrushes

Collect twigs, leaves, and feathers to create your own nature paintbrushes.

Kids will love painting with these unique brushes.

Crafting in the summer is more than just an activity; it’s about making memories, bonding, and letting creativity run wild.

So, gather your art supplies, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for some family fun!

Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about the joy of creating together.

Try our How to Make a Popsicle Stick Tutorial below! Happy crafting!

How to Make a Popsicle Stick Birdhouse

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Active Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Crafting a birdhouse using popsicle sticks is not only a fun activity but also a great way to provide a cozy shelter for our feathered friends.

This DIY project is simple, cost-effective, and can be a delightful addition to your garden or balcony.

Let's get started!

Materials

• Popsicle sticks (commonly referred to as ice cream sticks)
• Glue gun or an alternative strong adhesive

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Materials:

• Begin by gathering all the necessary materials.
• Ensure the popsicle sticks are clean and free from any residue.

2. Lay the Foundation:

• Start by laying out a square or rectangle using the popsicle sticks.
• This will serve as the base of your birdhouse. Secure the sticks together using the glue gun.

3. Build the Walls:

• Once the base is ready, start attaching popsicle sticks vertically to form the walls.
• Ensure they are glued securely and are evenly spaced.

4. Construct the Roof:

• For the roof, overlap two popsicle sticks in an inverted 'V' shape.
• Continue this pattern until you've covered the entire top of the birdhouse.

5. Add an Entrance:

• In the front wall, leave a small gap or cut out a small circle for the birds to enter and exit.

6. Reinforce the Structure:

• Go over any loose areas with additional glue to ensure the birdhouse is sturdy
• And can withstand various weather conditions.

7. Decorate (Optional):

• If you wish, you can paint or decorate the birdhouse.
• Consider using non-toxic paint if you decide to add some color.

8. Hang or Place in Desired Location:

• Once your birdhouse is complete, find a suitable spot in your garden, balcony, or any outdoor space.
• Ensure it's placed at a height that's safe from predators.

9. Observe and Enjoy:

• Over time, you might find birds taking shelter in your handmade birdhouse.
• Enjoy the sight and take pride in your crafty creation!

10. Maintenance:

• Periodically check the birdhouse for any wear and tear.
• It might require some minor repairs or a fresh coat of paint.

Tips:

• While crafting with kids, ensure adult supervision, especially when using the glue gun.
• Consider adding small perches using popsicle stick pieces near the entrance for the birds to sit.
• Always use eco-friendly and non-toxic materials, especially if placing the birdhouse outdoors.

Crafting Joyfully:

• There's immense joy in creating something with your own hands, especially when it benefits nature.
• This popsicle stick birdhouse is not just a craft but a symbol of love for our environment and its inhabitants.

So, gather your materials, call over the kids, and make it a family crafting day!

Remember, every little craft has a story to tell, and this one speaks of love, care, and creativity. Happy crafting!

Notes

Did you create this craft? If so, we would love to hear from you! Please feel free to leave a comment on the blog or share a photo of your creation on Pinterest.

See Also

74+ Summer Art Ideas 2024 - Custom Summer Artwork & Inspiration | 99designsThe Art of Summer in 10 Paintings | Art & Object10 Most Famous Summer Paintings - Artst40+ Sensational Summer Arts and Crafts for Kids

Recommended Products

Thank you for supporting our family-owned business!

• Superhero Drawings: A Step by Step Guide to Marvel Superheros
• Printable Cartoon Alphabet Food Flashcards: Learning with Every Bite!
• Unicorn Paper Plate Crafts Printables: Dive into a World of Magic!

Ready to Show Off Your Creation?

Join the CraftyThinking community! Drop a comment or showcase your project on Pinterest!

DIY Summer Crafts

Summer is all about vibrant colors, warm breezes, and the joy of creating something beautiful.

Dive into the world of DIY summer crafts and transform ordinary materials into extraordinary masterpieces.

Whether you’re looking to decorate your space, gift a handmade treasure, or simply enjoy a creative afternoon, our DIY Summer Crafts collection has something for everyone.

Don’t let this season pass without adding a touch of handmade charm to your days. Shop now and bring home the joy of crafting this summer!

The Joy of Crafting

• Crafting isn’t just an activity; it’s an emotion.
• The joy of creating something with your hands,
• The excitement of seeing a project come to life,
• And the satisfaction of completing it are unparalleled.
• Using materials like paint, paper plate, and beads,
• You can transform simple items into beautiful works of art.

Benefits for Kids

• Summer crafts for kids are more than just fun;
• They’re educational.
• They enhance creativity,
• Improve motor skills,
• And boost self-esteem.
• From easy summer crafts for preschoolers to more intricate projects for older kids,
• There’s something for everyone.

Dive into DIY: Unleashing Creativity

Unleash your inner artist and explore the world of DIY.

From handcrafted decorations to personalized gifts, DIY projects offer endless possibilities to express your creativity.

Create Now!

The Watermelon Wonder

Embrace the essence of summer with this delightful project.

• Using green and red paints, create watermelon slices on sturdy paper plates.
• For added flair, use black paint or small beads to represent seeds.
• Alternatively, gather some popsicle sticks, paint them in watermelon hues,
• Attach them together, and you have a handy watermelon fan to beat the summer heat.

Seashell Art: Beach Memories

Every seashell is a fragment of the vast ocean, holding tales of the deep blue.

• On your next beach visit, collect a variety of seashells.
• Clean them thoroughly and then paint or bead them.
• You can also glue them onto a canvas in a mosaic pattern or string them together to create a melodious wind chime for your porch.

Easy Summer Crafts: Quick and Fun

Sun’s out, crafts out! Make the most of the sunny season with quick and delightful summer crafts that add a splash of fun to your days.

Start Crafting!

Paper Flowers: Blooming Beauty

Nature’s blossoms are ephemeral, but your paper flowers can bloom forever.

• Choose colorful tissue papers, cut them into circles, and layer them.
• By simply folding and fluffing, you can create flowers that rival nature’s beauty.
• Attach them to sticks or string them together for a floral garland.

Chalk Pastel Sunsets: Painting the Sky

Sunsets are nature’s masterpieces.

• Using chalk pastels on black paper, start with the horizon, blending oranges, pinks, and purples to mimic the sky at dusk.
• Add silhouettes of trees or cityscapes for contrast.
• This activity is not just art; it’s a moment of mindfulness and appreciation for nature’s beauty.

Crafts for the Little Ones

Introduce the joys of crafting to the youngest members of the family.

These simple yet enchanting projects are tailored for tiny hands with big imaginations.

Craft Together!

Popsicle Crafts: Cool Creations

Popsicle sticks are the unsung heroes of the crafting world.

• Paint them in vibrant colors and assemble them into frames, houses, or even miniature furniture.
• Add googly eyes and felt to create cute characters, perfect for puppet shows.

Starfish and Mermaids: Ocean Wonders

The mysteries of the ocean come alive in these crafts.

• Using clay or dough, mold shapes of starfish and mermaids.
• Once dried, paint them in shimmering colors.
• Add sequins or glitter for that magical underwater sparkle.

Advanced Crafts: For the Avid Crafters

Elevate your crafting game with intricate projects designed for those who seek a challenge.

Perfect for seasoned crafters ready to showcase their skills.

Level Up!

Black Glue Watercolor: Artistic Fusion

This craft marries the precision of black glue outlines with the whimsy of watercolors.

• Sketch a design on paper, trace with black glue, and once dried, fill in with watercolors.
• The result is a stained-glass effect, vibrant and mesmerizing.

Melted Crayon Art: Colorful Melodies

Harness the power of the sun for this craft.

• Arrange crayons at the top of a canvas and let them melt in the sun.
• As they drip down, they create a riot of colors, each streak telling a tale of summer warmth.

Summer Art Supplies

Crafting during the summer is a delightful way to bond with family, especially when you have the right art supplies on hand.

Let’s explore some essential summer art supplies that will not only inspire creativity but also ensure a fun-filled crafting experience for the whole family.

1. Watercolor Paints

• Watercolor paints are a summer favorite,
• Offering a light and airy medium perfect for capturing the vibrant colors of the season.
• Whether you’re painting a sunset or a beach scene,
• These paints provide a wash of color that’s both vivid and translucent.
• They’re great for both beginners and experienced artists,
• And they dry quickly, making them ideal for outdoor painting sessions.

Craft with Passion Tip: Look for watercolor sets that come with a variety of shades to give you maximum flexibility in your creations.

2. Colored Pencils

• Colored pencils are versatile and portable, making them a must-have for summer art projects.
• They’re perfect for sketching out ideas, adding details to larger pieces,
• Or creating standalone works of art.
• Plus, they’re mess-free, which parents will surely appreciate!

Family Bonding Idea: Organize a colored pencil drawing contest and see who can create the most vibrant summer scene.

3. Acrylic Paints

• For those looking to create more permanent pieces, acrylic paints are the way to go.
• They’re bright, durable, and can be used on a variety of surfaces, from canvas to wood.
• Plus, they’re water-resistant once dry,
• So your summer masterpieces will withstand the elements if displayed outdoors.

Love Making Art Tip: Experiment with different brush sizes and techniques to achieve various textures and effects.

4. Craft Glue and Adhesives

• No crafting session is complete without reliable adhesives.
• From creating collages to assembling 3D projects, a good craft glue ensures your creations stay together and last longer.

Fun Art Fact: Some adhesives are designed specifically for certain materials, so always check the label to ensure you’re using the right one for your project.

5. Craft Paper and Cardstock

• Craft paper and cardstock are essentials for a multitude of projects.
• Whether you’re making greeting cards, scrapbooking, or creating paper mâché sculptures,
• These materials provide a sturdy base for your artistic endeavors.

Creative Ideas Spark: Use craft paper to create custom summer-themed stationery for handwritten letters to friends and family.

6. Beads and Jewelry Making Kits

• Summer is the perfect time to sport colorful, handmade jewelry.
• Beads come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing for endless design possibilities.
• Plus, making jewelry is a relaxing activity that’s perfect for lazy summer afternoons.

Heart Crafty Things Tip: Create matching jewelry pieces for family members as a symbol of your bond.

7. Stamps and Ink Pads

• Stamps offer a quick and easy way to add intricate designs to your projects.
• From floral motifs to summer-themed icons, there’s a stamp for every occasion.
• Pair them with colorful ink pads, and you have an instant art project ready to go.

Summer Craft Ideas Insight: Use stamps to create custom wrapping paper or gift tags for summer birthdays and celebrations.

8. Modeling Clay and Play Dough

• Modeling clay and play dough provide a tactile art experience that kids (and adults!) love.
• They’re perfect for sculpting miniature summer scenes,
• Creating jewelry,
• Or just having fun and letting your imagination run wild.

Fun for Kids Tip: Organize a clay modeling contest and display the creations in a family art gallery.

9. Sketchbooks and Journals

• Sketchbooks and journals are perfect for capturing summer memories.
• Whether you’re sketching a landscape, jotting down thoughts, or pressing flowers between the pages
• These books become treasured keepsakes.

List of Summer Memories Idea: Dedicate a page for each summer day and fill it with drawings, writings, and mementos.

10. Canvas and Easels

• For those looking to create larger pieces, canvases and easels are essential.
• Set up an outdoor painting station and let the beauty of summer inspire your artwork.
• From landscapes to abstract pieces, the canvas is your oyster.

Perfect for Summer Tip: Painting outdoors allows you to connect with nature and see colors and details you might miss indoors.

Crafting in the summer is all about fun, creativity, and making memories.

With these essential art supplies, you and your family are sure to have a blast.

So, gather your materials, spread out a picnic blanket, and let the summer crafting begin!

10 Tips for a Perfect Crafting Session

Ensure every crafting session is a masterpiece with these essential tips.

From organizing your materials to mastering techniques, we’ve got you covered.

Craft Flawlessly!

• Always keep your art supplies organized.
• Experiment with different art mediums.
• Involve the whole family for a fun crafting session.
• Always supervise younger kids during crafting.
• Take breaks and enjoy the summer outdoors.
• Use eco-friendly materials whenever possible.
• Don’t rush; enjoy the process.
• Display your crafts around the house.
• Take photos of your creations for memories.
• Remember, it’s about having fun, not perfection.

Summer Crafts for Kids: Making Memories Together

Summer is the perfect time for children to explore their creative side.

With longer days and school breaks, it’s a golden opportunity to craft together, creating lasting memories and beautiful projects.

Refreshing Craft Ideas: Watermelon and Popsicle Projects

When the sun shines bright and the days get warmer, there’s nothing like the refreshing feel of watermelons and popsicles.

Let’s transform these summer favorites into delightful crafts that mirror the season’s spirit.

Seashell Art and Beach-Inspired Crafts

The beach offers a treasure trove of inspiration.

From the delicate seashells to the rhythm of the waves, let’s capture the essence of the shoreline in our crafts and bring the beach vibes home.

Creative Art Ideas for Kids: From Paper Flowers to Chalk Pastel Sunsets

Children have an innate ability to see the world in vibrant colors.

Let’s channel that imagination into creating paper flowers that bloom forever and sunsets that capture the heart of summer evenings.

Stamping and Black Glue Watercolor: Advanced Art Techniques

For those looking to elevate their artistry, combining stamping with the unique touch of black glue watercolor can lead to masterpieces that stand out.

It’s time to explore these advanced techniques and see where creativity takes us.

Flying High: Hot Air Balloon Craft and More

The sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning.

Crafting projects inspired by the vastness of the sky, from hot air balloons to fluffy clouds, can inspire dreams and fuel imagination.

Under the Sea: Starfish, Mermaid, and Seashell Art

The ocean’s depth holds mysteries and wonders.

Crafting projects inspired by its inhabitants, from graceful mermaids to intricate starfish, can transport us to a world of aquatic beauty.

Fun and Easy Summer Art Activities

Summer is synonymous with fun, and what better way to enjoy it than with art activities that are both enjoyable and simple?

Let’s explore projects that bring joy without the complexity.

Melted Crayon Art: A Symphony of Colors

The vibrant hues of crayons can create magic, especially when they melt and blend.

This art form is not just about colors; it’s about the symphony they create together, telling a story on canvas.

Key Takeaways:

• Crafting is both fun and educational.
• There’s a summer craft for everyone, from toddlers to adults.
• Using different materials can add depth and vibrancy to your projects.
• Always prioritize safety, especially with younger kids.
• The joy of crafting lies in the journey, not just the end result.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Summer Arts and Crafts. Get some quick answers to everything you need to know.

Wrapping Up Summer Arts and Crafts

Summer arts and crafts are more than just activities; they’re memories in the making.

Whether you’re crafting with kids or taking on a DIY project yourself, the joy of creating is unmatched.

Remember to have fun, experiment, and most importantly, cherish the moments. Happy crafting!

If you enjoyed this article about Summer Arts and Crafts and would like to learn more, please leave a comment below.

Like and Share!

Resources for More Information on Summer Arts and Crafts

1. 40 Fun Summer Crafts – Easy DIY Project Ideas for Summer 2023 – The Pioneer Woman
2. 900+ Summer Crafts & Activities ideas – Pinterest
3. 45 Cute Summer Crafts for Kids – Easy Summer Crafts and DIYs – Good Housekeeping