100 Cute Summer Crafts for Kids

If you’re looking for cute, easy ways to keep kids busy this summer, these craft ideas are perfect for sunny afternoons, playdates, camp days, and “I’m bored” moments.

They’re bright, colorful, and mostly made with simple supplies you can keep in a craft bin all season long.

1. Paper Plate Sunshine Face

This is a classic happy summer craft that kids can personalize with silly smiles, rosy cheeks, and big bright rays. Hang it in a window or on the fridge for instant sunshine vibes.

Supplies

• 1 paper plate
• Yellow paint or yellow construction paper
• washable markers
• googly eyes
• glue sticks or kids’ glue
• safety scissors
• Orange/yellow construction paper (for rays)
• hole punch + string (optional for hanging)

Directions

1. Color or paint the paper plate yellow and let it dry if you used paint.
2. Cut long triangle “rays” from construction paper using safety scissors.
3. Glue the rays around the back edge using glue sticks so they peek out evenly.
4. Add a face with googly eyes and draw a smile with washable markers.
5. Optional: Punch a hole with a hole punch, tie on string, and hang it in a sunny window.

2. Popsicle Stick Ice Cream Cone Craft

Kids love “building” an ice cream cone with a popsicle stick scoop, sprinkles, and a cute smiling face. It’s also perfect for summer bulletin boards.

Supplies

• popsicle sticks
• Brown construction paper (cone)
• Colored cardstock (scoop)
• kids’ glue
• foam stickers or sequins (sprinkles)
• washable markers
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Cut a triangle from brown construction paper and draw crisscross cone lines with markers.
2. Cut a rounded scoop shape from colorful cardstock.
3. Glue the scoop onto the top of the cone using kids’ glue.
4. Glue a popsicle stick behind the scoop so it looks like a big ice cream bar.
5. Add “sprinkles” with foam stickers or sequins, then draw a cute face on the scoop.

3. Handprint Sunflower Keepsake

This is the sweetest summer keepsake because the petals are made from handprints. You can write the date in the center and keep it as a sunny memory.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• Yellow washable paint
• Brown construction paper (center) or brown paint
• kid paintbrushes (optional)
• washable markers
• wet wipes (cleanup helper)

Directions

1. Paint your child’s hand with washable paint and stamp handprints in a circle on cardstock (fingers pointing outward).
2. Let the handprints dry completely, then add more prints to fill any gaps and make it extra full.
3. Cut a brown circle from construction paper (or paint one) and glue it in the center.
4. Use markers to write the child’s name and date in the center.
5. Clean hands quickly with wet wipes and set the art somewhere safe to dry flat.

4. Watermelon Paper Fan

This one is a summer party favorite—fold it like a fan, decorate it like watermelon, and kids can actually use it to cool off.

Supplies

• Pink + green construction paper
• Black marker (seeds)
• glue sticks
• safety scissors
• stapler (optional, for the bottom)

Directions

1. Glue a strip of green construction paper to the bottom of pink paper to make a rind.
2. Add “seeds” with a black marker and let it dry so it doesn’t smear.
3. Fold the paper accordion-style from bottom to top (about 1-inch folds).
4. Pinch the bottom together and secure with a stapler or wrap with tape.
5. Fan it open and trim the top edges with safety scissors into a rounded watermelon shape.

5. Pool Noodle Sailboat

This is a fun craft that turns into a bath toy or pool toy. Kids love watching the little boats float and race.

Supplies

• pool noodles
• craft foam sheets (sails)
• wooden skewers or mini dowels
• safety scissors
• craft glue (or foam-safe glue)
• stickers (optional decoration)

Directions

1. Cut a 3–4 inch slice of pool noodle for the boat base.
2. Cut a triangle sail from craft foam using safety scissors.
3. Carefully poke a skewer into the noodle (adult help recommended) to make a mast.
4. Attach the sail to the mast with craft glue or a small piece of tape.
5. Decorate with stickers, then float it in a tub or kiddie pool for play.

6. Seashell Animal Collage

Turn a handful of shells into turtles, fish, crabs, or silly sea creatures with googly eyes and paint. This is a great “vacation memory” craft too.

Supplies

• seashells
• White canvas panel or cardstock
• kids’ craft glue
• googly eyes
• washable paint
• kid paintbrushes

Directions

1. Lay out seashells on cardstock to test creature shapes (one big shell for a body, smaller shells for fins/legs).
2. Glue the shells down using kids’ glue and let them dry so they don’t slide.
3. Paint details with washable paint (stripes, spots, bright summer colors).
4. Add googly eyes once paint is dry.
5. Optional: Outline waves or a beach background with paint or markers for a finished “scene.”

7. Pineapple Handprint Art

Kids stamp a yellow handprint, then add a leafy crown on top. It looks adorable and feels very summer-tropical.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• Yellow + green washable paint
• kid paintbrushes (optional)
• washable markers
• wet wipes

Directions

1. Paint your child’s hand yellow with washable paint.
2. Stamp a handprint on cardstock with fingers pointing down (this becomes the pineapple body).
3. Let it dry, then use green paint to add leafy “spikes” above the wrist area.
4. Draw a crisscross pineapple pattern on the yellow handprint using markers.
5. Clean up hands with wet wipes and set the art aside to dry flat.

8. Bubble Wrap Ocean Painting

Bubble wrap makes the coolest “sea foam” texture. Kids stamp waves, then add fish and shells once it dries.

Supplies

• bubble wrap
• Blue + white washable paint
• White canvas paper or cardstock
• paper plates (paint palette)
• washable markers

Directions

1. Pour a little blue and white paint onto a paper plate.
2. Press bubble wrap into the paint, then stamp it onto paper to create wave texture.
3. Repeat with different shades so it looks like layers of ocean water.
4. Let it dry, then draw fish, starfish, or shells with markers.
5. Optional: Add a strip of tan paper at the bottom for a beach shoreline.

9. DIY Kite Paper Craft

No wind required—this is a cute “kite” that can hang from a wall or be turned into a garland for summer parties.

Supplies

• Bright construction paper
• glue sticks
• safety scissors
• craft ribbon or crepe streamers
• stickers (optional)
• string (optional hanger)

Directions

1. Cut a diamond shape from construction paper.
2. Decorate the kite with stickers, marker patterns, or paper shapes.
3. Cut a long strip of crepe streamer for the tail and glue it to the bottom point.
4. Add small bows along the tail using bits of ribbon or paper.
5. Optional: Tape on string and hang it from a wall or window.

10. Paper Bowl Beach Scene Diorama

A mini “beach” inside a bowl is such a fun craft because kids can build it like a tiny world—sand, ocean, and little beachy details.

Supplies

• paper bowls
• Blue + tan construction paper
• kids’ craft glue
• craft sand (or brown sugar/crumbled paper as a substitute)
• mini seashells (optional)
• pipe cleaners (palm tree)
• pom-poms (beach balls)

Directions

1. Line one side of a paper bowl with blue paper for the ocean and the other side with tan paper for sand.
2. Brush or spread kids’ glue over the sand section and sprinkle on craft sand.
3. Add mini shells and pom-poms as beach details.
4. Make a palm tree by twisting brown and green pipe cleaners and gluing it upright.
5. Let everything dry, then display it like a tiny summer scene.

11. Cupcake Liner Jellyfish

These are ridiculously cute. A cupcake liner becomes the jellyfish body and curling ribbon makes perfect tentacles.

Supplies

• cupcake liners
• curling ribbon or streamers
• googly eyes
• kids’ glue
• Blue cardstock (background)
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Flip a cupcake liner upside down and glue it onto blue cardstock as the jellyfish body.
2. Cut 5–7 strands of curling ribbon and curl them using the edge of scissors (adult help).
3. Glue the ribbon tentacles under the liner so they dangle out.
4. Add googly eyes and draw a smile.
5. Make a few jellyfish in different colors for a whole “under the sea” page.

12. Paper Bag Shark Puppet

This is a summer craft and a pretend-play activity in one. Kids can make a shark mouth that opens and closes when they move the bag.

Supplies

• paper lunch bags
• Gray + white construction paper
• glue sticks
• safety scissors
• googly eyes
• washable markers

Directions

1. Cover the front flap of the paper bag with gray paper (or color it gray).
2. Cut a big triangle mouth shape and glue it onto the flap.
3. Cut small white triangles for teeth using safety scissors and glue them around the mouth edges.
4. Add googly eyes and draw gills with markers.
5. Slide a hand inside and practice “chomp chomp” shark puppet talk.

13. Sun Catcher Citrus Slices

These look like stained glass oranges, lemons, and limes in the window. They’re bright, easy, and feel very summery.

Supplies

• clear contact paper
• Orange/yellow/green tissue paper
• Black cardstock (outline)
• safety scissors
• glue sticks
• window suction hooks (optional)

Directions

1. Cut a circle frame from black cardstock to make the citrus outline.
2. Stick the frame onto a sheet of contact paper (sticky side up).
3. Tear small pieces of tissue paper and fill the circle like a mosaic.
4. Seal with a second piece of contact paper on top and press flat.
5. Trim the edges and stick it to a window (or hang with suction hooks).

14. Beach Ball Tissue Paper Collage

Tissue paper makes a fun textured beach ball, and kids can add stripes, polka dots, or a tiny highlight circle.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• assorted tissue paper
• kids’ glue
• paintbrush (for spreading glue)
• black marker

Directions

1. Draw a big circle beach ball outline on cardstock using a black marker.
2. Tear tissue paper into small squares.
3. Brush glue onto one section of the ball and press tissue squares down to make stripes.
4. Repeat with different colors until the whole circle is filled.
5. Let dry, then outline sections again for a crisp beach ball look.

15. DIY Summer Garland (Suns + Watermelons + Flip-Flops)

This is a super cute craft that doubles as summer decor. Kids can make the shapes, then you string them into a party-ready garland.

Supplies

• Bright cardstock
• string or baker’s twine
• hole punch
• safety scissors
• washable markers
• glue sticks

Directions

1. Cut summer shapes (sun circles, watermelon slices, flip-flops) from cardstock.
2. Decorate each shape with markers (seeds, stripes, smiley faces).
3. Use a hole punch to make two holes at the top of each shape.
4. Thread twine through the holes and space shapes evenly.
5. Hang across a wall, window, or snack table for instant summer decor.

16. Sponge-Stamp Tropical Leaves

This is a fun “process art” craft that still looks super cute when it’s done. Kids stamp big monstera and palm leaf shapes using sponges.

Supplies

• craft sponges
• Green washable paint
• White paper
• paper plates (for paint)
• washable markers

Directions

1. Cut sponges into leaf shapes (adult help for trimming is great).
2. Pour green paint onto a paper plate and dab the sponge into it.
3. Stamp leaf shapes across the page, overlapping for a jungle look.
4. Let it dry, then add leaf veins or patterns with markers.
5. Optional: Add tiny ladybugs or butterflies to make it feel extra summer-cute.

17. Paper Straw Firework Painting

Perfect for summer holidays—kids blow paint through a straw to make colorful firework bursts.

Supplies

• paper straws
• washable paint
• Dark black cardstock
• paint palette (optional)
• table cover

Directions

1. Cover the table with a table cover because this one gets splashy.
2. Drop a small puddle of paint onto black cardstock.
3. Use a paper straw to blow the paint outward from the puddle so it splatters like fireworks.
4. Repeat with different colors, spacing each burst around the page.
5. Let it dry flat before displaying.

18. DIY Flip-Flop Photo Frame

Kids decorate a flip-flop shaped frame with summer stickers and add a favorite summer photo in the middle.

Supplies

• Bright craft foam sheets
• foam stickers
• glue dots (photo-friendly)
• safety scissors
• magnetic strips (optional back)
• Printed photo

Directions

1. Cut a flip-flop shape from craft foam and cut out a center window where the photo will show.
2. Cut a second solid flip-flop shape for the back.
3. Decorate the front with foam stickers and summer shapes.
4. Attach the photo to the back piece using glue dots, then glue the frame front on top.
5. Add magnetic strips if you want it to stick on the fridge.

19. Paper Plate Watermelon Slice

So easy and so cute—kids paint a plate pink, add a green rind, then glue on black “seeds.”

Supplies

• paper plates
• Pink + green washable paint
• black pom-poms or black paper seeds
• kids’ glue
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Cut a paper plate in half to make two watermelon slices.
2. Paint the cut half pink and let it dry.
3. Paint a green rind strip along the curved edge.
4. Glue on “seeds” using black pom-poms or paper cutouts.
5. Let dry and display as summer wall art.

20. Clothespin Dragonflies

Clothespins make the perfect dragonfly body, and kids can add sparkly wings for a magical summer bug craft.

Supplies

• wooden clothespins
• pipe cleaners
• glitter glue (optional)
• googly eyes
• washable paint or markers
• kids’ glue

Directions

1. Paint or color a clothespin in bright summer colors and let dry.
2. Twist two pipe cleaners into wing shapes (two loops on each side).
3. Clamp the wings inside the clothespin so they’re held tightly.
4. Glue on googly eyes near the top.
5. Add dots or sparkle details with glitter glue if you want extra magic.

21. Paper Plate Under-the-Sea Aquarium

Kids build a mini aquarium inside a paper plate window—fish, seaweed, bubbles, and all.

Supplies

• 2 paper plates
• Blue cellophane or blue tissue paper
• fish stickers or paper fish cutouts
• sequins (bubbles)
• glue sticks
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Cut the center out of one paper plate to make a frame.
2. Glue blue tissue or cellophane behind the opening for “water.”
3. Decorate the inside with fish cutouts or fish stickers and add sequins as bubbles.
4. Glue a second plate behind it to seal the aquarium.
5. Optional: Add seaweed strips around the bottom edge for a finished under-the-sea look.

22. Popsicle Stick Sunburst Frame

Popsicle sticks glued like sun rays make a bright frame for a summer photo or drawing.

Supplies

• popsicle sticks
• paint
• craft glue
• photo print or small drawing
• glitter glue (optional)

Directions

1. Paint popsicle sticks in bright summer colors and let them dry completely.
2. Glue sticks in a sunburst pattern (one set vertical/horizontal, then diagonals) on a flat surface.
3. Glue a smaller square of sticks on top to form the frame opening.
4. Attach a photo print to the back with glue.
5. Add sparkle lines or dots with glitter glue if you want extra sunshine energy.

23. Watercolor Sunset Silhouette

Kids paint a simple sunset wash, then add palm trees or birds in silhouette for a super “summer night” look.

Supplies

• watercolor paint set
• watercolor paper
• paintbrushes
• black marker or black paint
• masking tape (optional clean border)

Directions

1. Tape the edges of watercolor paper with masking tape for a crisp border (optional).
2. Paint horizontal bands of sunset colors (pink, orange, yellow, purple) using a watercolor set and blend while wet.
3. Let the background dry completely so the silhouette stays sharp.
4. Draw palm trees, birds, or a beach line with a black marker.
5. Remove tape and display the sunset art like a mini summer painting.

24. Pool Noodle Stamp Art

Cut pool noodles into shapes and stamp with them—circles for bubbles, flowers, sun bursts, and more.

Supplies

• pool noodles
• washable paint
• White roll paper or cardstock
• paper plates

Directions

1. Slice pool noodles into 1-inch stamp pieces (adult help recommended).
2. Dip the noodle stamp into washable paint poured on a paper plate.
3. Stamp onto paper in patterns (bubbles, beach ball dots, flower shapes).
4. Layer colors to make it extra bright.
5. Let dry and hang as summer wall art.

25. Paper Cup Ocean Windsock

This is cute hanging from a porch or window—like a little ocean breeze decoration with ribbon streamers.

Supplies

• paper cups
• crepe streamers or ribbon
• glue sticks
• hole punch
• string
• stickers

Directions

1. Decorate a paper cup with ocean stickers or marker waves.
2. Cut long strips of streamers and glue them inside the cup rim so they hang down.
3. Punch two holes near the top using a hole punch.
4. Thread string through the holes and tie into a loop for hanging.
5. Hang it where it can flutter and spin.

26. Paper Plate Sun Visor

Kids can wear this one outside. Decorate it with stickers and bright summer patterns, then use it for backyard play.

Supplies

• paper plates
• elastic cord or string
• hole punch
• stickers
• washable markers
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Cut a wide half-moon opening from the center of a paper plate (leave the outer rim as the visor).
2. Decorate the visor with stickers and markers.
3. Punch a hole on each side with a hole punch.
4. Tie on elastic cord so it fits around the head.
5. Try it on and trim edges if needed for comfort.

27. Ice Pop Stick Rainbow Fan

Paint popsicle sticks rainbow colors, glue them into a fan, and kids can actually use it outside.

Supplies

• popsicle sticks
• washable paint
• craft glue
• paper fasteners (brad)
• glitter glue (optional)

Directions

1. Paint popsicle sticks in rainbow colors and let dry.
2. Punch or poke a small hole in one end of each stick (adult help works best).
3. Stack sticks and secure with a paper fastener.
4. Fan them out evenly and add sparkle accents with glitter glue if you want.
5. Use it as a cute summer hand fan.

28. Handprint Crab Craft

Handprints become crab claws, and kids can give their crab silly eyes and a grin.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• Red/orange washable paint
• googly eyes
• kids’ glue
• black marker
• wet wipes

Directions

1. Paint both hands with red/orange washable paint.
2. Stamp two handprints on cardstock facing each other so thumbs look like claws.
3. Let dry, then draw legs and a smile with a black marker.
4. Glue on googly eyes near the top.
5. Clean hands quickly with wet wipes.

29. Paper Plate Pineapple

Paint a plate yellow, add a green leafy top, and glue on paper squares for texture. It ends up looking super cheerful.

Supplies

• paper plate
• Yellow washable paint
• Green construction paper
• tissue paper (yellow/orange for texture)
• kids’ glue
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Paint the paper plate yellow and let it dry.
2. Cut spiky leaves from green construction paper and glue them to the top edge.
3. Tear tissue paper into small squares.
4. Glue tissue squares onto the pineapple body for a textured look.
5. Add a face if kids want it extra cute.

30. DIY Sandcastle Art (Textured)

This one looks like a real sandcastle because you add texture on top. Kids can decorate with shells and tiny flags.

Supplies

• Tan construction paper
• craft sand
• kids’ glue
• mini seashells
• toothpicks + paper (flags)
• blue construction paper (water)

Directions

1. Cut a sandcastle shape from tan construction paper and glue it onto blue paper like it’s on a beach.
2. Spread kids’ glue over the sandcastle shape.
3. Sprinkle craft sand on top and shake off excess.
4. Add mini shells at the bottom like beach treasures.
5. Make tiny flags with paper on toothpicks and glue them to the tops of the towers.

31. “Sunglasses” Paper Plate Mask

Kids can make oversized sunglasses and wear them. Add glitter, stickers, or rainbow stripes for a fun summer accessory craft.

Supplies

• paper plates
• elastic cord
• hole punch
• stickers
• glitter glue
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Flatten a paper plate and draw oversized sunglasses across the center.
2. Cut out the outer shape and the eye holes using safety scissors.
3. Decorate with stickers and glitter glue.
4. Punch holes on each side with a hole punch and tie on elastic cord.
5. Try them on and adjust the elastic length if needed.

32. Fingerprint Ice Cream Cone Painting

Kids use fingerprints to make “scoops” and sprinkles. It’s simple, adorable, and perfect for toddlers too.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• washable ink pads or washable paint
• Brown marker
• wet wipes

Directions

1. Draw an ice cream cone outline with a brown marker on cardstock.
2. Press fingertips into washable ink or paint and stamp scoops above the cone.
3. Add smaller fingerprints as sprinkles or cherries on top.
4. Let dry, then add faces or details with markers.
5. Clean fingers quickly with wet wipes.

33. Paper Plate Sunflower Crown

Kids can wear their craft! This makes a cute summer photo moment and works great for camps or parties.

Supplies

• paper plates
• Yellow construction paper
• Brown construction paper (center)
• stapler
• safety scissors
• glue sticks

Directions

1. Cut the center out of a paper plate to make a ring that fits around a child’s head (adult help).
2. Cut petal shapes from yellow construction paper.
3. Glue petals around the outside of the ring using glue sticks.
4. Cut and glue a brown circle center on the front.
5. Use a stapler to adjust sizing if needed, then wear your sunflower crown.

34. Paper Plate Rainbow Umbrella

Turn a paper plate into a colorful umbrella with a cute curved handle—perfect for summer rain themes.

Supplies

• paper plates
• washable markers or paint
• pipe cleaners (handle)
• glue dots or glue
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Cut a paper plate in half.
2. Color rainbow stripes on the plate half using markers.
3. Twist a pipe cleaner into a hook shape for the handle.
4. Attach the handle to the center of the straight edge with glue dots.
5. Optional: Add cotton ball “clouds” at the top for extra cute detail.

35. DIY “Camping Lantern” Paper Lantern

A cute summer camping craft that can hang in a play tent or be used as pretend lantern decor.

Supplies

• Colored construction paper
• stapler or tape
• safety scissors
• glitter paper (optional “glow” panel)
• string (handle)

Directions

1. Fold construction paper in half lengthwise.
2. Cut slits from the fold toward the edge, stopping about an inch before the end.
3. Unfold and roll into a tube shape, then secure with a stapler.
4. Optional: Add a strip of glitter paper inside to look like a glow panel.
5. Staple on a string handle and hang it up.

36. Paper Plate Hot Air Balloon

Bright and happy—kids paint the balloon, then attach a little basket underneath with yarn or string.

Supplies

• paper plates
• washable paint or markers
• Brown construction paper (basket)
• yarn or string
• glue sticks
• cotton balls (clouds)

Directions

1. Paint or color a paper plate with bright stripes or patterns and let dry if painted.
2. Cut a small basket shape from brown construction paper.
3. Glue two short pieces of yarn from the plate bottom to the basket top.
4. Glue the basket in place and press firmly so it sticks.
5. Add cotton ball clouds around it if you want a full sky scene.

37. DIY Pinecone Bird Feeder

A summer nature craft that’s also a backyard activity. Kids spread, roll, and hang, then watch birds visit.

Supplies

• pinecones
• peanut butter (or sunbutter alternative)
• bird seed
• string
• plastic spoons (spreading)

Directions

1. Tie string around the top of a pinecone to make a hanger.
2. Use a spoon to spread peanut butter into the pinecone gaps.
3. Roll the pinecone in bird seed until it’s fully coated.
4. Hang outside on a tree branch.
5. Watch for bird visitors and talk about what kinds you see.

38. Paper Plate Mermaid Tail

Mermaid crafts are always a hit. This one is easy: paint, add “scales,” and glue on a sparkly tail fin.

Supplies

• paper plate
• Teal/purple washable paint
• sequins or glitter foam
• glue sticks
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Cut the paper plate into a long tail shape (adult help for cutting works great).
2. Paint the tail teal or purple using washable paint and let dry.
3. Add scales by gluing sequins in rows or drawing scallops with markers.
4. Cut a fin from glitter foam and glue it to the bottom.
5. Let dry and use it as pretend-play mermaid accessory.

39. “S’mores” Camping Craft (Paper + Cotton)

This is a cute summer camp craft—kids build a s’more stack with paper crackers, chocolate, and a fluffy cotton marshmallow.

Supplies

• Tan/brown construction paper
• cotton balls
• glue sticks
• markers
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Cut two cracker squares from tan construction paper and add dot texture with markers.
2. Cut a chocolate rectangle from brown paper and draw chocolate lines.
3. Stretch a cotton ball slightly so it looks like a puffy marshmallow.
4. Glue the stack in order: cracker, chocolate, marshmallow, cracker using glue sticks.
5. Optional: Add a little “toasted” shading on the cotton with a tan marker.

40. Paper Plate Flamingo

Flamingos scream summer. Kids can paint it pink, add a curved neck, and give it big silly eyelashes.

Supplies

• paper plate
• Pink washable paint
• Pink/black construction paper
• googly eyes (optional)
• glue sticks
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Paint a paper plate pink and let it dry.
2. Cut a long curved neck from pink paper and glue it to the plate edge.
3. Cut a small black beak tip and glue it on the end of the neck.
4. Add eyes (drawn or googly eyes) and eyelashes for extra cute detail.
5. Optional: Cut legs from paper and glue on behind the body.

41. Popsicle Stick Surfboard

Paint popsicle sticks like mini surfboards and decorate them with stripes, glitter, and tiny sticker decals.

Supplies

• jumbo popsicle sticks
• paint or markers
• glitter glue
• mini stickers
• magnet strips (optional)

Directions

1. Paint jumbo sticks in bright colors and let them dry.
2. Add stripe designs, zigzags, or dots with markers or paint.
3. Decorate with glitter glue and mini stickers.
4. Optional: Add magnet strips on the back for fridge art.
5. Display in a cup like a little surfboard collection.

42. Paper Plate Ladybug

Not strictly “summer-only,” but ladybugs feel like backyard summer days. This one is easy and adorable.

Supplies

• paper plate
• Red + black washable paint
• black pom-poms (optional dots)
• googly eyes
• kids’ glue

Directions

1. Paint the paper plate red and let it dry.
2. Paint a black half-circle at the top for the head.
3. Add dots using black paint or glue on black pom-poms.
4. Glue on googly eyes and draw a smile.
5. Optional: Add pipe cleaner antennae for extra cute detail.

43. DIY “Lemonade Stand” Mini Sign Craft

Kids can make a cute pretend lemonade stand sign to use in pretend play or for a real summer stand.

Supplies

• White poster board or cardstock
• washable markers
• Yellow construction paper (lemons)
• glitter glue (optional)
• wooden dowels (optional stand stakes)
• tape

Directions

1. Cut a sign rectangle from poster board.
2. Decorate with lemons (paper cutouts) and big sunny lettering using markers.
3. Add sparkle highlights with glitter glue if you want it extra eye-catching.
4. Tape the sign to wooden dowels for a stake sign, or prop it up on a table.
5. Use it for pretend play or a real lemonade stand moment.

44. Paper Plate Ice Cream Sundae

Kids build a giant sundae with paper scoops, sprinkles, and a cherry on top—so cute for summer decor.

Supplies

• paper plate
• Colored cardstock
• cotton balls (whipped cream)
• pony beads or sequins (sprinkles)
• red pom-poms (cherry)
• glue sticks

Directions

1. Use a paper plate as the “bowl” base.
2. Cut 2–3 ice cream scoop shapes from cardstock and layer them on the plate.
3. Glue on cotton balls as whipped cream.
4. Add sprinkles using beads or sequins.
5. Top with a red pom-pom cherry and let dry.

45. Bubble Wand Starburst Painting

Use bubble wands as stampers to make bright, circular bubble patterns—great for “pool day” art.

Supplies

• bubble wands
• washable paint
• White paper
• paper plates

Directions

1. Pour different colors of washable paint onto paper plates.
2. Dip a bubble wand into paint and stamp circles onto paper.
3. Overlap colors to create a bubbly pattern page.
4. Let dry, then add doodles like fish or suns with markers if kids want.
5. Rinse wands right away so the paint doesn’t dry on them.

46. Popsicle Stick “Beach Fence” Picture Frame

Glue popsicle sticks like a mini beach fence and add paper “sand” and tiny shell accents—so cute for a summer photo.

Supplies

• popsicle sticks
• Tan construction paper
• mini seashells
• low-temp hot glue gun (adult use) or craft glue
• Small photo

Directions

1. Line up popsicle sticks vertically like a fence and glue them together.
2. Glue two horizontal sticks across the back for support.
3. Cut a tan “sand” strip from construction paper and glue it along the bottom.
4. Attach a photo behind the sticks so it peeks through, leaving space to see the picture.
5. Glue on mini shells as beach accents.

47. Paper Plate Rainbow Fish

Paint a plate like a fish body and use shiny scales (sequins or foil) for a rainbow fish effect.

Supplies

• paper plate
• metallic foil paper or sequins
• washable paint
• kids’ glue
• googly eyes
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Paint the paper plate in bright ocean colors and let it dry.
2. Cut a triangle tail fin from the plate edge and glue it back on as a fin shape.
3. Cut small scale shapes from foil paper and glue them in rows.
4. Add a googly eye and draw a smile.
5. Optional: Add glitter dots for “bubbles.”

48. DIY “Sunshine” Rock Painting

Paint cheerful sun faces on smooth rocks and use them as garden decor or kindness rocks to give away.

Supplies

• Smooth rocks for painting
• acrylic paint set
• paint brush set
• paint markers (details)
• clear sealer (adult use, optional)

Directions

1. Wash and dry rocks so paint sticks smoothly.
2. Paint the rock base yellow and let it dry.
3. Add a cute face and sun rays using paint markers for crisp lines.
4. Let dry fully, then add tiny rosy cheeks or sparkles if you want.
5. Optional: Seal with clear sealer (adult use) for outdoor durability.

49. Paper Plate “Beach Hat” Craft

Kids make a cute summer straw hat from a paper plate, then decorate it with flowers, ribbons, and a name tag.

Supplies

• paper plates
• Tan paint or markers
• mini artificial flowers or paper flowers
• craft ribbon
• glue dots or glue
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Cut a circle out of the center of a paper plate, leaving the rim as the brim.
2. Use the removed circle as the hat “top” and glue it back onto the plate rim like a dome.
3. Color the hat tan using paint or markers and let dry.
4. Add a ribbon band and decorate with flowers using glue dots.
5. Optional: Write the child’s name on a small tag and attach it like a “hat label.”

50. “Ocean in a Bottle” Sensory Craft

This one is part craft, part sensory calm-down tool. Kids can shake it to make waves and watch glitter “float” like ocean sparkles.

Supplies

• Clear plastic bottle with lid
• Blue food coloring or blue watercolor
• glitter
• clear glue (to slow the glitter)
• Small mini seashells or mini plastic fish (optional)
• super glue (adult use to seal lid)

Directions

1. Fill the bottle about ⅔ full with water.
2. Add 1–2 drops of blue coloring and swirl.
3. Add a spoonful of clear glue and a pinch of glitter (plus shells or fish if using).
4. Top off with more water, screw the lid on tightly, and test the swirl.
5. Seal the lid with a tiny bit of super glue (adult step), then let it dry before kids play with it.

51. Paper Plate Octopus with Dangly Legs

This is extra cute because the legs can be curly, zigzag, or ribbon-like. Kids love giving their octopus a silly smile and different patterned legs.

Supplies

• 1 paper plate
• Purple or blue washable paint
• curling ribbon or pipe cleaners (legs)
• googly eyes
• kids’ craft glue
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Paint the paper plate purple or blue and let it dry.
2. Cut eight lengths of curling ribbon or bend pipe cleaners into curly legs.
3. Flip the plate over and glue the legs around the bottom edge using kids’ glue.
4. Flip it back and glue on googly eyes.
5. Add a big smile and cheeks with marker if you want an extra friendly octopus.

52. Tissue Paper “Sunset Jar” Silhouette Craft

This looks like a tiny sunset trapped in a jar. Kids layer tissue paper like a gradient, then add a black palm tree silhouette on top.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• Pink/orange/yellow/purple tissue paper
• Black construction paper
• glue sticks
• safety scissors
• black marker (optional)

Directions

1. Draw a mason jar outline on cardstock (or cut a jar shape out first).
2. Tear tissue paper into small pieces.
3. Glue tissue inside the jar outline in layers (yellow at the bottom, then orange, pink, purple) using glue sticks.
4. Cut a palm tree silhouette from black construction paper and glue it over the “sunset.”
5. Outline the jar with a black marker for a crisp finished look.

53. Sponge-Painted Ice Cream Drip Banner

This makes the cutest summer wall decor—painted “ice cream drips” that look like a sweet banner for parties or playrooms.

Supplies

• White poster board or cardstock
• craft sponges
• washable paint
• pom-poms or paper circles (sprinkles)
• glue sticks
• string
• hole punch

Directions

1. Cut the poster board into 6–10 pennant rectangles or triangles.
2. Use a sponge dipped in washable paint to stamp a thick band across the top of each pennant.
3. Paint “drips” coming down from the band using the edge of the sponge or a paintbrush.
4. Glue on sprinkles using pom-poms or paper dots with glue sticks.
5. Punch holes with a hole punch, string them on string, and hang your drip banner.

54. Paper Bowl “Snow Cone” Craft

This is a super cute pretend summer treat. The paper bowl becomes the cone, and shredded tissue looks like fluffy shaved ice.

Supplies

• paper bowls
• Colored tissue paper
• paper shredder (optional) or tear by hand
• glue sticks
• Bright stickers (optional)

Directions

1. Flip a paper bowl upside down so it looks like a cone shape.
2. Tear tissue paper into tiny pieces (or shred it) to make “shaved ice.”
3. Cover the top of the bowl with glue and press tissue pieces on in layered colors.
4. Add a few darker tissue bits on top for “syrup drips.”
5. Optional: Add stickers to the cone like a pretend snow cone shop label.

55. Coffee Filter Butterfly Tie-Dye

Coffee filters make the prettiest wings. Kids color, spritz with water, and watch the colors blend like watercolor tie-dye.

Supplies

• coffee filters
• washable markers
• spray bottle
• pipe cleaners
• wooden clothespins (optional body)
• paper plates (work surface)

Directions

1. Flatten a coffee filter on a paper plate.
2. Color it with bold patterns using washable markers.
3. Lightly mist with water using a spray bottle so the colors bleed.
4. Let it dry completely, then pinch the center to form wings.
5. Wrap a pipe cleaner around the center to make the body and antennae (or clip with a clothespin).

56. “Campfire” Handprint Art

Kids stamp handprints as flames, then add logs and marshmallow sticks. It’s cute for summer camp themes or a camping week at home.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• Red/orange/yellow washable paint
• Brown construction paper (logs)
• black marker
• wet wipes

Directions

1. Paint a child’s hand with washable paint in red, orange, and yellow (you can do one color at a time).
2. Stamp overlapping handprints in a flame shape on cardstock.
3. Let the prints dry, then glue on paper “logs” cut from construction paper.
4. Draw little marshmallow sticks or sparks with a black marker.
5. Clean hands with wet wipes and let the art dry flat.

57. DIY Paper Pinwheel Bouquet

Pinwheels feel so summery, and this craft is cute as a bouquet centerpiece for a picnic table.

Supplies

• Patterned scrapbook paper
• brass fasteners
• wooden skewers or paper straws
• hole punch
• craft beads (center)
• tape

Directions

1. Cut a square from scrapbook paper.
2. Cut diagonals from each corner toward the center, stopping about an inch short.
3. Fold every other corner into the center to form the pinwheel shape.
4. Punch a hole through the center and secure with a brass fastener and a bead.
5. Tape the back to a paper straw or skewer, then make a whole bouquet.

58. “Flip-Flop” Footprint Painting

Kids stamp a footprint, then turn it into a flip-flop with a strap and fun patterns. It’s cute as a summer keepsake.

Supplies

• White canvas panel or cardstock
• Bright washable paint
• kid paintbrushes
• glitter glue (optional)
• wet wipes

Directions

1. Paint the bottom of a foot with washable paint (a foam brush helps).
2. Stamp the footprint on canvas or cardstock and let it dry.
3. Paint a “strap” across the top of the footprint to make it a flip-flop shape.
4. Add patterns (polka dots, stripes) and sparkle accents with glitter glue.
5. Clean up feet with wet wipes and write the date underneath.

59. Paper “Fruit Kabob” Necklace

This is a wearable craft that looks like a silly fruit skewer. Kids string paper fruit shapes and wear them like a summer party accessory.

Supplies

• Bright cardstock
• hole punch
• yarn or string
• washable markers
• safety scissors
• craft beads (optional spacer “marshmallows”)

Directions

1. Cut fruit shapes (watermelon triangles, pineapple chunks, strawberry hearts) from cardstock.
2. Decorate each fruit with seeds and lines using markers.
3. Punch holes in each fruit using a hole punch.
4. String them onto yarn, adding beads between if you want “kabob” spacing.
5. Tie the ends and wear your fruity summer necklace.

60. DIY Paper “Ice Cream Truck” Craft

Kids build a cute ice cream truck with a big serving window and paper treats inside. It’s perfect for pretend play after crafting.

Supplies

• Small cardboard box (cereal box size works)
• colored tape or paper for decorating
• construction paper
• washable markers
• round stickers (wheels) or paper circles
• child-safe scissors
• craft glue

Directions

1. Cut a serving window into the side of a cardboard box (adult help for cutting is best).
2. Cover the box with colored tape or glue on paper panels for a bright truck look.
3. Add wheels using round stickers or paper circles.
4. Cut tiny paper cones and popsicles from construction paper and place them in the window.
5. Decorate with stripes and “menu” doodles using markers, then play ice cream shop.

61. Paper Chain “Summer Countdown” (Suns Only)

This is a cute way to count down to a trip, camp, or the last day of school. Each loop is a sunshine, not a plain chain, so it stays extra on-theme.

Supplies

• Yellow construction paper
• Orange construction paper (rays)
• stapler or tape
• black marker
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Cut yellow strips from construction paper and form loops.
2. Secure each loop with a stapler (or tape) and link them together like a chain.
3. Cut small triangle rays from orange paper using scissors.
4. Staple or tape rays around each yellow loop so every link becomes a sunshine.
5. Write numbers on each sun with a marker and remove one each day.

62. DIY Paper “Lifeguard Stand” Scene

Kids build a tiny lifeguard chair, beach sign, and waves. It’s a fun small-world craft that can stand up on a shelf.

Supplies

• popsicle sticks
• Blue cardstock
• Tan construction paper
• craft glue
• mini props (optional)
• markers

Directions

1. Glue popsicle sticks into a simple chair/stand shape (a small seat on top with legs).
2. Let it dry so it stands firmly.
3. Create a beach base on blue cardstock with tan paper sand strips.
4. Draw waves and a tiny beach sign using markers.
5. Set the lifeguard stand on the base and add any mini props if you have them.

63. Paper Plate “Sunset Mirror” (Foil Center)

This is a fun decorative craft: a foil “mirror” surrounded by a painted sunset. It looks so cute hanging in a playroom.

Supplies

• paper plate
• aluminum foil
• washable paint
• glue sticks
• paintbrushes

Directions

1. Cut the center out of a paper plate to create a wide frame ring.
2. Glue aluminum foil behind the opening for a “mirror” center.
3. Paint the plate ring in sunset colors (pink, orange, purple) using paint.
4. Add little sun rays, dots, or wave lines once it dries.
5. Hang it up as a fun summer “mirror” decoration.

64. Cupcake Liner “Flower Garden” Collage

Make a bright flower garden using cupcake liners as petals. This one looks adorable on a wall, and every flower can be different.

Supplies

• cupcake liners
• Green construction paper
• White cardstock
• glue sticks
• craft buttons or pom-poms (centers)
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Flatten cupcake liners and layer two or three together for big flowers.
2. Glue them onto cardstock using glue sticks.
3. Cut stems and leaves from green construction paper and glue them under each flower.
4. Add centers using buttons or pom-poms.
5. Fill the page like a full garden, then let it dry flat.

65. DIY “Water Droplet” Raindrop Mobile (Summer Rain Theme)

This is a pretty hanging craft with raindrops, clouds, and tiny suns—perfect for those summer afternoon rainstorms.

Supplies

• Blue cardstock
• White cardstock
• string
• embroidery hoop or hanger
• glitter (optional)
• glue sticks
• safety scissors

Directions

1. Cut raindrop shapes from blue cardstock and cloud shapes from white cardstock.
2. Optional: Add sparkle to drops with a light brush of glue and glitter.
3. Cut several lengths of string.
4. Glue or tape raindrops and clouds onto the strings at different heights.
5. Tie strings onto an embroidery hoop and hang your summer rain mobile.

66. “Beach Towel” Weaving Craft

Kids weave paper strips to make a mini beach towel pattern. It’s easy, colorful, and looks like real summer stripes.

Supplies

• Bright construction paper
• ruler (for straight strips)
• safety scissors
• glue sticks
• washable markers (optional fringe details)

Directions

1. Cut a rectangle “towel base” from construction paper.
2. Cut slits down the towel base, stopping about an inch from the bottom edge.
3. Cut long strips from different colored paper using a ruler to keep them even.
4. Weave strips over-under through the slits, alternating colors for stripes.
5. Glue the strip ends down with glue and draw little fringe at the bottom if you want.

67. Paper Plate “Sun + Cloud” Spinner

This is a cute moving craft: spin it to “change” from sunny to cloudy. Great for little kids learning weather words.

Supplies

• 2 paper plates
• brass fastener
• Yellow + gray construction paper
• washable markers
• child-safe scissors

Directions

1. On one paper plate, draw a big sun on one side and clouds on the other.
2. On the second plate, cut a “window” opening so you can see part of the drawing beneath.
3. Decorate the top plate with summer doodles using markers.
4. Stack plates and attach in the center with a brass fastener.
5. Spin to switch between sunny and cloudy.

68. DIY “Fruit Slice” Painted Sponges (Lemon + Orange + Lime)

Kids make fruit slice stamps and create a whole citrus pattern page. It’s bright, simple, and very summer.

Supplies

• craft sponges
• Yellow/orange/green washable paint
• White paper
• paper plates
• child-safe scissors
• fine-tip marker (optional details)

Directions

1. Cut sponges into circle slices and wedge shapes (adult help recommended).
2. Pour washable paint onto paper plates.
3. Dip sponge stamps into paint and stamp fruit slices across the page.
4. Layer different colors to make a mixed fruit pattern.
5. Optional: Add segment lines with a fine-tip marker once dry.

69. Paper Plate “Sunflower Field” Scene

Instead of one sunflower, kids make a whole field. It looks adorable on a wall, especially with a blue sky background.

Supplies

• Mini paper plates (or cut circles)
• Yellow construction paper
• Blue poster board
• Green construction paper
• glue sticks
• brown pom-poms (centers) or paper circles

Directions

1. Glue several small paper plate circles onto a blue poster board background.
2. Cut sunflower petals from yellow paper and glue them around each circle using glue.
3. Add centers with brown pom-poms or brown paper circles.
4. Cut green stems and leaves and glue them below each flower.
5. Fill the bottom with green paper “grass” strips for a full sunflower field look.

70. DIY “Ladybug Rocks” with Leaf Homes

Paint rocks into ladybugs, then create tiny leaf “homes” as a pretend habitat craft. It’s cute and outdoorsy.

Supplies

• Smooth rocks for painting
• acrylic paint
• paint brushes
• paint marker
• clear sealer (optional, adult use)
• Large leaves (from outside)

Directions

1. Wash and dry rocks so paint sticks well.
2. Paint rocks red and let them dry.
3. Add a black head and dots using paint marker.
4. Optional: Seal with sealer (adult step) so they can live outside longer.
5. Place ladybug rocks on big leaves outside and make a tiny pretend “ladybug neighborhood.”

71. DIY “Sun Tea” Pretend Play Craft (Paper + Jar Label)

This is a cute craft for kids who love playing “kitchen.” They decorate a pretend sun tea jar label and make paper lemon slices to “drop in.”

Supplies

• Brown kraft paper (tea)
• Yellow construction paper (lemons)
• clear plastic jar (optional) or just a drawn jar
• blank labels
• washable markers
• child-safe scissors

Directions

1. Cut lemon slice circles from yellow paper and add segment lines with markers.
2. Cut “tea” strips from kraft paper to place inside the jar.
3. Decorate blank labels with sunshine doodles and a pretend tea name.
4. Stick the label on a plastic jar or tape it onto a paper jar drawing.
5. Use the paper lemons for pretend “sun tea” play.

72. Paper Plate “Sun + Rays” Lacing Craft

A cute fine-motor craft: kids lace yarn through holes around a sun, making bright rays like a little sewing project.

Supplies

• paper plate
• hole punch (adult help)
• yarn
• plastic yarn needles
• Yellow/orange markers

Directions

1. Color the paper plate like a sun using markers or paint.
2. Use a hole punch to punch holes evenly around the edge (adult help recommended).
3. Thread yarn onto a plastic needle.
4. Lace in and out around the plate edge to create “rays.”
5. Tie off the yarn and hang the sun in a window or on a wall.

73. DIY “Watermelon Seed” Fine-Motor Pick-Up Game (Craft + Play)

This is a craft that turns into a game: kids make a paper watermelon, then “pick up seeds” with tweezers for a fun fine-motor challenge.

Supplies

• Pink + green construction paper
• black pony beads (seeds)
• kids tweezers or plastic tweezers
• paper plate (game tray)
• glue sticks

Directions

1. Cut a big watermelon slice from pink paper and glue a green rind strip along the edge using glue.
2. Place the watermelon on a paper plate tray.
3. Scatter black pony beads as “seeds.”
4. Use kids tweezers to pick up seeds and place them onto the watermelon.
5. Time it like a game or challenge kids to sort seeds into a cup.

74. DIY “Beach Postcard” Craft

Kids make a postcard with a beach scene on the front and a pretend message on the back. It’s a cute memory craft after a trip too.

Supplies

• White index cards or cardstock
• washable markers
• ocean stickers (optional)
• gel pens (optional writing sparkle)
• glitter (optional sandy sparkle)
• glue sticks

Directions

1. Use an index card as your postcard base.
2. Draw a beach scene on the front with markers (ocean, sun, umbrella, sandcastle).
3. Add stickers or a tiny sprinkle of glitter for sand texture (use glue to hold it).
4. Flip it over and draw a postcard line down the middle (message on left, “address” lines on right).
5. Write a pretend vacation message using gel pens or markers.

75. DIY “Sunflower Seed” Mosaic (Paper Beans Look)

This is a cute textured art project: kids fill a sunflower center with tiny glued paper pieces that look like seeds.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• Yellow construction paper
• Brown/black construction paper (seeds)
• kids’ glue
• child-safe scissors

Directions

1. Cut sunflower petals from yellow paper and glue them in a circle on cardstock.
2. Draw a large circle in the center for the seed area.
3. Snip tiny “seed” bits from brown and black paper using scissors.
4. Fill the center circle with glue and sprinkle on paper seeds until it’s packed.
5. Let dry, then gently tap off extra pieces for a clean sunflower center.

76. DIY “Splash!” Water Droplet Painting (Toothbrush Flick)

This is a fun summer “splash” art: kids mask a white droplet shape, then splatter blue paint around it like water splash.

Supplies

• White paper
• Blue washable paint
• masking tape (or droplet stencil)
• new toothbrush (splatter tool)
• table cover

Directions

1. Cover the table with a table cover.
2. Use masking tape to create a droplet shape (or place a droplet stencil on the paper).
3. Dip a toothbrush into blue paint.
4. Flick the bristles with your thumb to splatter paint around the droplet area.
5. Let dry, then peel off the tape/stencil to reveal a crisp white droplet.

77. “Beach Bingo” DIY Game Board Craft

Kids make a beach-themed bingo card, then use shells or buttons as markers for game time.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• ruler
• washable markers
• ocean stickers (or draw icons)
• craft buttons or shells (markers)

Directions

1. Use a ruler to draw a 5x5 grid on cardstock.
2. Fill squares with beach icons using drawings or stickers (sun, shell, sandcastle, popsicle, umbrella).
3. Decorate the border with summer stripes and colors using markers.
4. Use buttons or shells as bingo markers.
5. Play by calling out icons and trying to get five in a row.

78. DIY “Pineapple” Paper Lantern (No Lights)

This looks like a pineapple lantern decoration without needing any electronics. It’s cute for party decor or a summer classroom door.

Supplies

• Yellow construction paper
• Green construction paper
• stapler
• child-safe scissors
• black marker

Directions

1. Fold yellow paper lengthwise and cut slits, stopping an inch from the end.
2. Unfold, roll into a cylinder, and staple the edge with a stapler.
3. Draw pineapple crisscross lines with a marker.
4. Cut leafy spikes from green paper and staple them inside the top rim.
5. Hang it up as a summer pineapple decoration.

79. “Under the Sea” Salt Dough Shell Impressions

Kids press shells into dough to make adorable textured “treasures,” then paint them once they dry.

Supplies

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup table salt
• measuring cups
• Warm water (about ¾ cup)
• seashells
• rolling pin
• acrylic paint
• paint brushes

Directions

1. Mix flour and salt in a bowl using measuring cups.
2. Add warm water a little at a time until you get a playdough texture.
3. Roll dough flat with a rolling pin and cut into circles or shell shapes.
4. Press seashells into the dough to make impressions, then lift them off carefully.
5. Let pieces air dry (or bake low with adult help), then paint with acrylic paint.

80. DIY “Popsicle” Bookmark Craft

Kids make popsicle-shaped bookmarks with silly faces—cute and practical for summer reading programs.

Supplies

• Colored cardstock
• jumbo popsicle sticks
• self-adhesive laminating sheets (optional durability)
• googly eyes (optional)
• glue sticks
• washable markers

Directions

1. Cut a rounded popsicle shape from cardstock.
2. Glue a popsicle stick behind it as the handle.
3. Decorate with sprinkles, drip lines, and a cute face using markers (or add googly eyes).
4. Optional: Cover with self-adhesive laminating sheets for durability.
5. Trim edges and use it for summer reading.

81. “Sand Writing” Name Art (Glue + Sand)

Kids write their name in glue, then sprinkle sand over it. It dries raised and textured like a beach souvenir.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• school glue
• craft sand
• glitter (optional)
• craft tray (to catch sand)

Directions

1. Place cardstock on a tray to catch extra sand.
2. Write a name or summer word (like “SUN”) using school glue.
3. Sprinkle craft sand over the wet glue until fully covered.
4. Tap off excess sand back into the tray.
5. Let it dry flat, then add a tiny bit of glitter for sparkle if you want.

82. DIY “Sunshine” Paper Cup Flower Pot

This is a cute little desk craft: a paper cup becomes a flower pot and kids add sunny paper flowers “growing” out of it.

Supplies

• paper cups
• Yellow + green construction paper
• paper straws (stems)
• pom-poms (flower centers)
• glue dots or glue
• child-safe scissors

Directions

1. Decorate a paper cup with stripes, dots, or a smiley face.
2. Cut flower petals from yellow paper and glue them into flower shapes.
3. Add pom-poms as centers using glue dots.
4. Glue flowers onto paper straws as stems and add green leaves.
5. Place stems inside the cup and display like a sunny flower pot.

83. DIY “Beach Umbrella” Paper Craft

This is a cute tabletop craft: a paper umbrella that stands up with a straw handle and tiny paper fringe.

Supplies

• Patterned scrapbook paper
• paper straws
• glue sticks
• child-safe scissors
• mini pom-poms (top knob)

Directions

1. Cut a circle from scrapbook paper and cut it in half.
2. Roll the half circle into a cone umbrella shape and glue the seam with glue.
3. Poke a small hole in the center and insert a paper straw as the handle (adult help if needed).
4. Glue a mini pom-pom on top as the umbrella tip.
5. Add paper fringe around the bottom edge for a cute beachy look.

84. DIY “Water Bottle” Sticker Collage Wrap

Kids decorate a reusable water bottle with a removable sticker collage wrap, so it feels like a summer camp accessory without permanent stickers.

Supplies

• Plain reusable water bottle
• clear packing tape (for removable wrap)
• summer stickers
• washable markers (optional doodles)
• kid scissors

Directions

1. Cut a strip of packing tape long enough to wrap around the bottle (sticky side up on the table).
2. Place stickers onto the tape sticky side to create a collage strip.
3. Optional: Add tiny doodles on blank spaces using markers.
4. Wrap the tape strip around the water bottle so the sticker collage shows outward.
5. Press firmly and trim any extra tape for a neat removable wrap.

85. DIY “Sunshine” Sticker Resist Painting

This is a cool reveal craft: place sun stickers, paint over them, then peel to reveal crisp white sunshine shapes.

Supplies

• White paper
• sun stickers or circle stickers
• Yellow/orange washable paint
• foam brushes

Directions

1. Stick sun stickers onto the paper in a scattered pattern.
2. Paint over the whole page using washable paint and a foam brush.
3. Let the paint dry completely so the reveal is crisp.
4. Peel off the stickers to reveal white sun shapes.
5. Add rays or smiley faces inside the suns with marker if you want.

86. DIY “Beach Wave” Paper Fan (Accordion Waves)

This craft makes a wavy ocean fan that looks like rolling waves. It’s cute decor and kids can wave it around like real ocean motion.

Supplies

• Blue construction paper
• White paint marker or white crayon (foam lines)
• stapler
• popsicle sticks (handles)
• craft glue

Directions

1. Draw white wave lines across blue paper using a white paint marker.
2. Fold the paper accordion-style from bottom to top.
3. Pinch the bottom and staple it with a stapler.
4. Glue popsicle sticks on each side as handles using glue.
5. Fan it open and “wave” it like an ocean breeze.

87. DIY “Watermelon Picnic” Placemat Coloring Craft

Kids design their own picnic placemat with watermelon slices, suns, and summer icons. Laminate it and it becomes usable for snack time.

Supplies

• Large poster board or big cardstock
• washable markers
• crayons (optional)
• self-adhesive laminating sheets (optional)
• summer stickers (optional)

Directions

1. Use poster board as your placemat base.
2. Draw big summer doodles (watermelon slices, lemonade cups, suns) with markers.
3. Color everything in with markers or crayons.
4. Add stickers if you want extra cute icons and borders.
5. Optional: Seal with laminating sheets so it can be wiped clean.

88. DIY “Seaside Treasure Map” Craft

Kids make a pretend treasure map with dotted paths, X marks, and tiny beach landmarks. It turns into a fun backyard scavenger game too.

Supplies

• Brown kraft paper
• washable markers
• tea bags (optional “aging” wash)
• paintbrush (optional)
• pirate stickers (optional)

Directions

1. Crumple and gently flatten kraft paper to give it an “old map” look.
2. Optional: Brush on very light tea with a tea bag for an aged effect (let dry fully).
3. Draw a treasure path with dotted lines using markers.
4. Add icons like palm trees, waves, rocks, and a big “X.”
5. Use the map for a backyard “treasure hunt” with small prizes.

89. DIY “Sunflower” Paper Fan (Petal Fan)

This is different from a crown: it’s a hand fan shaped like a sunflower. Cute for outdoor events and summer heat.

Supplies

• Yellow construction paper
• Brown construction paper
• popsicle sticks
• craft glue
• child-safe scissors

Directions

1. Cut a large sunflower circle from yellow paper and cut petal edges all around.
2. Glue a brown circle center on top using glue.
3. Glue a popsicle stick to the back as the handle.
4. Press and let dry so the stick stays strong.
5. Use it as a cute sunflower fan outside.

90. DIY “Popsicle Stick Tic-Tac-Toe” (Summer Icons).

Kids make a travel-friendly game with summer icons (suns and watermelons) instead of X’s and O’s.

Supplies

• popsicle sticks
• markers (adult helps with permanent) or washable markers
• zipper pouch (storage)
• paint (optional)

Directions

1. Lay out 4 popsicle sticks in a grid and glue them where they overlap.
2. Let the board dry flat.
3. Use markers to draw 5 “sun” pieces on sticks and 5 “watermelon” pieces on sticks.
4. Store pieces in a zipper pouch so it’s easy to travel with.
5. Play tic-tac-toe at picnics, restaurants, or on road trips.

91. DIY “Beach Ball” Pom-Pom Painting (Circle Stamps)

Pom-poms make the cutest round stamps. Kids stamp beach balls in bright sections for a clean, graphic look.

Supplies

• craft pom-poms
• wooden clothespins (holders)
• washable paint
• White paper
• paper plates
• fine-tip marker

Directions

1. Clip a pom-pom into a clothespin to make a stamp tool.
2. Pour paint onto paper plates and dab the pom-pom into it.
3. Stamp circles onto paper to create beach balls.
4. Once dry, draw curved section lines with a fine-tip marker.
5. Color sections in or stamp different colors to make a whole page of beach balls.

92. DIY “Sunshine” Paper Plate Clock

This is cute and practical: kids make a sunshine clock to practice telling time over summer break.

Supplies

• paper plate
• brass fastener
• Yellow/orange markers
• Cardstock scraps (clock hands)
• single hole punch

Directions

1. Write numbers 1–12 around a paper plate.
2. Decorate the edge with sun rays using markers.
3. Cut two clock hands from cardstock (one short, one long).
4. Punch holes in the hands and plate center using a hole punch.
5. Attach hands with a brass fastener and practice telling time.

93. DIY “Beach Bucket” Name Holder (Desk Craft)

Kids make a tiny paper “bucket” that holds their name card—cute for summer camp tables or pretend play.

Supplies

• Colored cardstock
• mini clothespins
• glue dots or glue
• washable markers
• child-safe scissors

Directions

1. Cut and fold cardstock into a small bucket shape (a short cylinder with a base).
2. Decorate the bucket with stripes and dots using markers.
3. Attach a mini clothespin to the back using glue dots.
4. Write a name on a small card and clip it in.
5. Use it as a place card or desk name holder.

94. DIY “Jellyfish in a Bottle” Hanging Craft

Different from the ocean bottle: this one has a jellyfish that “floats” inside and streamers that sway when you move it.

Supplies

• Clear plastic bottle
• tissue paper or cupcake liners (jellyfish top)
• curling ribbon (tentacles)
• clear glue (optional)
• Blue coloring or watercolor
• super glue (adult use to seal)

Directions

1. Create a jellyfish top by bunching tissue paper into a dome (or use a cupcake liner).
2. Tape or glue curling ribbon tentacles to the underside.
3. Fill the bottle with water tinted blue and add a spoonful of clear glue to slow movement.
4. Insert the jellyfish so it “floats” inside.
5. Seal the lid with super glue (adult step) and gently tip to watch it drift.

95. DIY “Summer Fruit” Paper Plate Wreath

A cute door/wall decoration with paper strawberries, lemons, and watermelons all around a wreath ring.

Supplies

• 1 paper plate
• Red/yellow/green construction paper
• glue sticks
• child-safe scissors
• markers
• string (hanger)

Directions

1. Cut the center out of a paper plate to make a wreath ring.
2. Cut fruit shapes from construction paper (strawberries, lemon slices, watermelon wedges).
3. Decorate fruit with seeds and details using markers.
4. Glue fruit all around the wreath using glue sticks.
5. Tie on string and hang it up.

96. DIY “Rainbow Sprinkler” Painting (Spin Art Style)

This is a fun twist on spin art: kids “sprinkle” paint in lines like a sprinkler pattern, then spin the paper to make rainbow bursts.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• washable paint
• salad spinner (dedicated for crafts)
• plastic spoons
• table cover

Directions

1. Cover the table with a table cover.
2. Cut cardstock to fit inside a salad spinner.
3. Drop thin lines of paint onto the paper using plastic spoons like “sprinkler sprays.”
4. Close the spinner and spin for 10–20 seconds.
5. Remove and let dry—each one looks like a rainbow sprinkler burst.

97. DIY “Garden Bug” Paper Clip Bookmarks

Cute little bugs that clip onto pages—perfect for summer reading challenges. Each bug can be a ladybug, bee, or butterfly.

Supplies

• large paper clips
• craft foam sheets
• mini googly eyes
• glue dots
• markers
• child-safe scissors

Directions

1. Cut small bug shapes from craft foam (oval bodies, tiny wings).
2. Decorate with dots and stripes using markers.
3. Attach mini googly eyes with glue dots.
4. Stick the finished foam bug onto the top of a paper clip.
5. Clip onto a book page for a cute summer bookmark.

98. DIY “Lemon Slice” Paper Plate Clock (Telling Time)

This is a different clock craft than the sunshine one—this one looks like a lemon slice with segment lines and numbers.

Supplies

• 1 paper plate
• Yellow markers or paint
• brass fastener
• Cardstock scraps (hands)
• single hole punch

Directions

1. Color the rim of the paper plate bright yellow like a lemon rind.
2. Draw wedge segment lines from center to edge.
3. Write numbers 1–12 on the lemon slice.
4. Cut clock hands from cardstock and punch holes using a hole punch.
5. Attach hands with a brass fastener and practice time.

99. DIY “Sun + Ice Cream” Mixed Media Collage

This is a cute “summer favorites” page: kids glue a big sun in the corner and add an ice cream cone collage at the bottom with textured toppings.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• Yellow/brown/pink construction paper
• cotton balls (whipped cream)
• sequins (sprinkles)
• glue sticks
• markers

Directions

1. Glue a big sun circle and rays in the corner using yellow paper and glue.
2. Build an ice cream cone collage at the bottom with brown cone paper and scoop shapes.
3. Add whipped cream texture with a small cotton ball.
4. Glue on sequins as sprinkles.
5. Outline and add cute faces using markers.

100. DIY “Summer Memory” Polaroid Frame Craft

This is a sweet end-of-summer craft: kids make a paper “Polaroid” frame, add a drawing or photo, and write their favorite summer memory.

Supplies

• White cardstock
• Small photo or drawing
• glue dots
• summer stickers
• washable markers
• child-safe scissors

Directions

1. Cut a “Polaroid” frame shape from cardstock (square window with a thicker bottom border).
2. Attach a photo or drawing behind the window using glue dots.
3. Decorate the frame with summer stickers and marker doodles.
4. Write a favorite summer memory on the bottom border with markers.
5. Display it on a shelf or tape it to the wall as a summer keepsake.

FAQ

What are the best low-mess summer crafts for kids?

Great low-mess options include paper garlands, cupcake liner flowers, postcard drawing crafts, and sticker-resist projects.

If you want to avoid paint entirely, keep a bin of glue sticks, construction paper, and stickers and you’ll have tons of easy options.

What supplies should I keep stocked for summer crafting?

A simple summer craft kit can include construction paper, cardstock, kids’ glue, safety scissors, washable markers, paper plates, and fun extras like googly eyes and pom-poms.

How do I make crafts more age-appropriate for toddlers?

For toddlers, choose crafts that focus on stamping, sticking, and coloring.

Swap small pieces for bigger items (like large stickers instead of tiny sequins), use washable paint, and let them do the fun parts while you handle cutting.

Which crafts make the best keepsakes?

Handprint and footprint projects are always the best keepsakes, along with memory frames and “summer postcard” drawings.

Using a canvas panel instead of paper can make them feel extra special and longer-lasting.

Can these crafts be used for summer camp or classroom themes?

Yes—many of these are perfect for camp weeks (ocean day, camping day, sunshine day).

If you’re planning for groups, prep ahead by cutting shapes, setting out paper plates, and portioning supplies into trays so each child can work independently.

Summer Crafts

With a few simple supplies and a little summer imagination, you can keep kids busy with crafts that are actually cute enough to display.

Whether you’re making ocean bottles, watermelon art, sunny keepsakes, or camp-themed projects, these ideas are easy to set up and fun to customize.

If you want to make summer crafting even simpler, keep a go-to bin stocked with construction paper, glue sticks, washable markers, and paper plates.

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