Summer’s in full swing; it’s a great time to get creative. The warm weather and long days make it easy to get outside, and these 11 ideas will inspire your family. From water-shooter tie dye to homemade butterfly wings, we’ve got lots of fun for sunshine days. Scroll down to find your favorite.
Go Float a Boat
Make this the summer of “whatever floats your boat”… literally. Designing and making your own mini sailboat is an easy and fun way to spend a sunny afternoon outdoors. From collecting sticks in the yard to sending their craft on its maiden voyage, this project will keep your sweet sailors busy for hours. Find out how to make your own here.
photo: Amanda Thomsen via The House that Lars Built
Flower Fun
Your little flower children will dig making a summer crown, especially if it’s easy like this one from The House that Lars Built designer Brittany Jepson. The simple requirements of clippers and your kiddo’s favorite floral lets you to add a magical touch to the afternoon. Get the whole scoop over at The House that Lars Built.
photo: The Creative Cubby
For the Birds
We aren’t sure what’s cooler about this eco-friendly bird feeder from The Creative Cubby—the supplies and how-to, or how excited your crafty kids will be to watch their feathered friends stop by for a summer snack. Head over to The Creative Cubby to learn how to make this easy, recycled craft.
photo: Cindy Hopper via Skip to My Lou
Step on Over
Garden stepping stones are perfect for a long, open afternoon. The hardest part is probably mixing up the cement, but the best part is having a keepsake that will last for years. Bonus: make a few of these garden stones and stash away for holiday gifts! Find out what you’ll need over at Skip to My Lou.
photo: Sally Mahoney via flickr
Chalk it Up
Sidewalk chalk is a must-have supply of summer and challenging your budding artists to create a mandala should be on your bucket list. Beautiful to see, easy to create, and simple to clean up, we think this is a perfect project to tackle while the sun shines. If you want to know how to get the design to line up just right, head over to Art Club Blog for a quick tutorial.
photo: Gail Bartel via That Artist Woman
Fabulous Fish
Whether you are handy with a sewing machine or if you are a master with Elmer’s, That Artist Woman Gail Bartel has a fun project that fits the bill. These Koinobori windsocks are a great addition to summertime fun (go fish, anyone?) and totally worth the time and effort your kids will put in over a day. We especially love the bright colors and fishing poles! Find out how to make your own over at That Artist Woman.
photo: Jackie Curie via Happy Hooligans
Ornaments of Summer
Another project worthy of a sunshine-y day, these twig ornaments we spotted over at Happy Hooligans are a delight. Chic and charming, it’s easy to get little people started by simply having them collect supplies in the yard or a nearby park (can you say nature hunt?). Follow up with bright wrappings and a little paint and you’ve got a perfect present for any loved one. Find out what you’ll need to get started over at Happy Hooligans.
photo: Jamie Reiner via Hands On As We Grow
Catch the Sun
What better way to enjoy the summer sun than with a nature sun catcher? Not only does it get your little explorers outside looking for supplies, but the results hang around for as long as you want. Find out how to create the clear center of this delightful and easy project over at Hands On As We Grow
photo: Shaunna Evans via Fantastic Fun and Learning
Fit to be Tied
Tie dye is practically a required summertime activity, and we’re big fans of this twist involving water shooters from Fantastic Fun and Learning. It’s a kid-pleasing craft if there ever was one—amped-up interactive tie dye. Get the how-to here.
photo: Upcycle That
Brilliant Bubble Blower
Is there anything more fun than bubbles? What about a DIY bubble blower from Upcycle That? You probably have the materials for this recycled craft already (hooray for no-fuss crafts!) and it will definitely add an extra fun touch to summertime outdoor play. Get the how-to here.
photo: Asia Citro via Fun at Home With Kids
Beautiful Butterfly
If you’d like to have a brilliant butterfly visit you this summer, look no further than this simple and sweet tutorial from Fun at Home with Kids. Using basic supplies you’ve probably already got, you and your budding artist can craft a pair that fits perfectly and adds a little something extra to afternoon outdoor play. Find out more over at Fun at Home with Kids.
Which summer craft do you plan to try out with your kiddos? Let us know in the comment section below!
–Gabby Cullen & Abigail Matsumoto
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