Summer is the perfect time to get creative, relax, and add a personal touch to your home or outdoor space. Whether you’re an experienced crafter or just getting started, these 23 summer crafts for adults will inspire you to spend your free time making something special. From boho-inspired macrame wall hangings to DIY beachy lanterns, there’s something for everyone in this guide.

1. DIY Painted Terra Cotta Pots

If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to brighten up your outdoor space, try crafting your own painted terra cotta pots. These simple yet stunning crafts can be customized to match your backyard décor or personal style.

To start, pick up a few terra cotta pots from your local garden store or craft shop. The best part is that you don’t need professional painting skills to achieve beautiful results. Use acrylic paints in vibrant colors and get creative with patterns like stripes, polka dots, or even floral designs. You can add a personal touch by painting inspirational quotes or fun images that match your summer vibe.

Once your pots are painted and dried, plant some of your favorite summer flowers, succulents, or herbs to complete the look. These painted pots are perfect for placing on your back porch or balcony, creating a cozy and colorful garden. They also make great gifts for friends or family members who love adding a personal touch to their outdoor living spaces.

This simple project is a great way to show off your creativity while adding a cheerful pop of color to your backyard décor.

2. Macrame Wall Hanging

Bring the bohemian flair into your home with a DIY macrame wall hanging. This trendy craft has made a major comeback in recent years and is a fantastic way to add texture and style to any room in your house or even your back porch.

Macrame is a form of textile-making that involves knotting cords into decorative patterns. While it might seem intimidating at first, the process is actually quite simple and therapeutic. All you need is some macrame cord (or cotton rope), a wooden dowel or branch, and a bit of patience.

Start with basic knots like the square knot and lark’s head knot, and build your piece from there. Once completed, you’ll have a unique work of art that can be hung in any room, whether it’s a cozy living space or your outdoor patio area.

For a modern twist, consider using neutral colors like beige, white, or soft pastels. You can also experiment with adding beads or feathers to your macrame design for an extra touch of boho charm. If you’re looking for outdoor living inspiration, a macrame wall hanging can enhance the ambiance of a modern back porch or patio.

3. Custom Tie-Dye T-Shirts

Tie-dye is a nostalgic summer activity that’s perfect for creating personalized wardrobe pieces. It’s a fun and creative way to express yourself, and the possibilities are endless when it comes to patterns, colors, and designs.

Start with a plain white t-shirt (or any piece of clothing) and some fabric dye in various shades of your choice. You can go for the classic spiral pattern, or try out other techniques like the accordion fold or the crumple technique for a more abstract look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with color combinations – think about how your tie-dye creation will fit with your summer wardrobe, whether you’re lounging by the pool or heading to a beach day.

Tie-dye is a great summer craft for groups, too, so consider hosting a tie-dye party with friends or family. It’s a perfect activity to bring people together and share creative ideas. The best part is that once your shirt is dyed, all you need to do is wash it, and you’re ready to wear your new masterpiece!

Tie-dye can also be done on other items like socks, tote bags, or pillowcases, adding a fun and colorful touch to your home décor or wardrobe. If you love modern patio furniture or outdoor living, a tie-dye tablecloth or placemats can be an excellent addition to your back porch décor.

4. Beachy Mason Jar Lanterns

Create the ultimate beach-inspired ambiance with mason jar lanterns. This easy DIY project is perfect for summer evenings spent outside on the patio or back porch. The soft glow from LED candles inside the jars will give your outdoor space a relaxed, calming atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding with a glass of wine or having a cozy summer dinner.

To make these lanterns, start with mason jars of any size. You can add sand or seashells inside for a beachy effect, or fill the jar with fairy lights for an even more magical look. For added charm, tie a piece of twine or ribbon around the jar’s neck, or paint the jars with white, blue, or pastel colors to complement your summer décor.

These mason jar lanterns are incredibly versatile – use them to light up your garden path, or hang them from a tree for a whimsical effect. They make for excellent outdoor lighting solutions that are both functional and decorative.

5. Handmade Summer Wreaths

Decorating your front door or back porch with a handmade wreath is a beautiful way to welcome summer into your home. Summer wreaths can be made using a variety of materials, including faux flowers, greenery, ribbons, and even seashells, to create a natural or rustic look.

Start by choosing a wreath form, such as a wire or foam base. You can then glue or attach your materials around the frame. If you love gardening, try adding real flowers or even fresh herbs like lavender for a fragrant touch. For a coastal vibe, use seashells and driftwood to create a beachy wreath that can be displayed outdoors.

You can customize the wreath to match your outdoor living space’s color scheme. Whether you want a vibrant, colorful wreath or a more subtle, pastel design, it’s a great way to add a personal touch to your summer décor.

6. DIY Flower Crowns

Bring out your inner flower child with a beautiful DIY flower crown. This charming accessory is perfect for summer festivals, garden parties, or simply lounging outside. Making your own flower crown allows you to choose your favorite blooms and customize it to match your personal style.

Start by selecting fresh flowers like daisies, roses, or lavender. You can also use faux flowers for a more durable crown that will last throughout the season. Create a wire frame that fits comfortably around your head, then attach the flowers using floral tape or wire. Add greenery for a fuller look, or even small embellishments like beads or ribbons to make it unique.

This craft is especially fun when done with friends or family members. It’s a creative activity that brings people together and gives you a chance to wear something beautiful and handmade. Flower crowns are a perfect summer accessory for photos, garden parties, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

7. Painted Seashell Jewelry

Take your beachcombing finds and turn them into beautiful, wearable art with painted seashell jewelry. This summer craft is ideal for those who love to spend time at the beach and want to create something meaningful from their coastal treasures.

Start by collecting seashells during your beach trips. Once you have a nice selection, clean and dry them. Then, use acrylic paints to add vibrant colors and intricate designs, such as florals, geometric shapes, or simple stripes. After the paint dries, use jewelry-making supplies like jump rings and chains to turn your shells into necklaces, bracelets, or earrings.

This project allows you to personalize your accessories while keeping memories of your summer vacations close. Painted seashell jewelry also makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family, especially if they’re beach lovers too.

8. Personalized Picnic Blankets

What better way to enjoy the outdoors than with a custom-made picnic blanket? This is a fantastic summer craft that’s both practical and personal. You’ll have the perfect blanket to spread out on your next picnic, beach day, or outdoor gathering.

To create your own, choose a fabric that’s both comfortable and durable, like cotton or canvas. You can either sew the edges yourself or use fabric glue for a no-sew option. Personalize your blanket with fabric paint, embroidery, or iron-on decals. Add a monogram or a fun quote to make it uniquely yours.

Once finished, you’ll have a blanket that not only looks great but also reflects your style. It’s an excellent addition to your outdoor living collection and will become your go-to accessory for sunny days in the park or on the back porch.

9. Upcycled Denim Tote Bags

Transform your old denim jeans into trendy tote bags that are both functional and stylish. This sustainable craft is an excellent way to repurpose clothing that would otherwise go to waste, giving it new life as a fashionable accessory.

Start by cutting your denim jeans into pieces, then sew them together to create the body of the bag. Add a sturdy strap (you can use the jean’s original waistband or fabric scraps) and personalize the bag with embellishments like patches, beads, or embroidery.

These denim tote bags are perfect for carrying groceries, beach gear, or anything else you need for your summer adventures. They’re also a great way to reduce waste and create something both practical and unique.

10. Succulent Terrariums

Succulent terrariums are a beautiful way to bring the outdoors in. These low-maintenance indoor gardens can be customized to fit your space, whether you place them on your windowsill or your back porch.

To create your own succulent terrarium, start with a glass container (like a fishbowl or mason jar) and add layers of gravel, charcoal, and potting soil. Then, choose a few succulent plants that you love. The best part about succulents is that they’re easy to care for, requiring minimal water and attention.

For an added touch, decorate your terrarium with small figurines, moss, or decorative stones. These little plants can thrive in various indoor environments, and they’ll add a touch of greenery to your home without the maintenance of a full garden. Succulent terrariums also make fantastic gifts for friends who love adding a natural touch to their home décor.

11. Painted Wooden Coasters

When the summer heat is in full swing, it’s essential to keep your drinks cool—and what better way to do that than with custom-painted wooden coasters? These coasters can be personalized to match your home’s aesthetic or your outdoor living area’s theme.

Start by picking up a few plain wooden coasters from a craft store or repurposing old pieces of wood. Sand them down to create a smooth surface, then paint them with your favorite designs. You can create abstract patterns, floral motifs, or even hand-paint small summer scenes, like beach waves or sunsets. Don’t forget to add a protective layer of varnish to make sure your coasters last through many summer gatherings.

These painted coasters are not only functional but also serve as small pieces of art for your home. They make excellent housewarming or hostess gifts, and they’re a perfect addition to any modern back porch décor.

12. DIY Dream Catchers

Dream catchers are a beautiful craft that combines creativity with cultural tradition. They are a calming and meditative project, ideal for anyone looking to add a peaceful vibe to their home or outdoor space.

To make your own dream catcher, start with a metal or wooden hoop as your base. You can then use a variety of materials like yarn, feathers, beads, and ribbons to create intricate patterns. Experiment with colors and textures to make it personal—soft pastels can create a calming effect, while bright hues can add a pop of energy to your décor.

Hang your finished dream catcher in a place where it can sway gently in the breeze, either indoors or on your modern patio furniture. The combination of soft, flowing materials and natural elements will add both beauty and tranquility to your space.

13. Scented Candle Making

Creating your own custom-scented candles is a wonderful way to bring your favorite summer fragrances into your home. From fresh citrus to tropical coconut, these candles can create an inviting atmosphere for your summer gatherings, whether on your back porch or inside your home.

Start by purchasing candle-making supplies, including wax, wicks, and fragrance oils. You can also add colorants to create candles in your favorite hues, whether you opt for soft pastels or vibrant tones.

After melting the wax, pour it into your chosen containers (mason jars, tea cups, or decorative glass holders) and allow the candles to set. While they are setting, experiment with different scents to find the perfect blend. For a beach-inspired scent, try combining coconut and sea salt, or create a refreshing summer vibe with lavender and citrus.

These homemade candles make perfect gifts, and they add a cozy ambiance to your home, particularly on warm summer nights spent outdoors.

14. Pressed Flower Art

Pressed flower art is an elegant and timeless way to preserve the beauty of nature during the summer months. Whether you pick flowers from your garden or gather wildflowers on a nature walk, these blooms can be transformed into beautiful pieces of art.

To begin, pick fresh flowers and press them using parchment paper and a heavy book. Once the flowers are flattened and dried, arrange them on a piece of paper, canvas, or inside a picture frame. You can experiment with different compositions, creating symmetrical designs or more organic, free-flowing patterns.

Pressed flower art is perfect for adding a rustic touch to your modern back porch or home décor. The natural beauty of the flowers will bring the outdoors inside, and you can customize the colors and types of flowers to match the seasons or your space’s color scheme.

15. Painted Rocks for Garden Décor

If you’re looking for a simple, creative craft that also adds character to your garden or backyard, painting rocks is an excellent option. These painted rocks can be used as décor or even as a fun, colorful addition to your landscaping.

Start by collecting smooth, flat rocks from your garden or the beach. Clean them thoroughly, then get creative with designs like flowers, animals, inspirational quotes, or abstract patterns. You can use acrylic paints, sharpies, or even paint pens for precise designs.

Once your painted rocks are dry, place them around your garden, flower beds, or even along pathways to add a whimsical touch. They also make great gifts for friends, and kids will love helping with this craft too!

16. DIY Paper Lanterns

Add a festive atmosphere to your summer evenings with DIY paper lanterns. These lanterns are simple to make and can be customized to match your outdoor décor, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night outside.

To create your own paper lanterns, start by selecting colorful or patterned paper. Cut it into strips and glue or staple the edges to form a lantern shape. You can also add a handle for easy hanging. For extra flair, decorate your lanterns with ribbon, beads, or paint.

Once complete, place small LED candles inside the lanterns for a safe and cozy glow. Hang them along your porch, from trees, or in your garden for a beautiful, ambient light source. DIY paper lanterns add a touch of whimsy and charm to any outdoor space.

17. Tie-Dye Beach Towels

Tie-dye isn’t just for shirts—why not apply the same colorful technique to your beach towels? This project is a fun and practical way to personalize your beach day essentials.

Pick up a plain white beach towel, and choose your favorite tie-dye colors. Use the traditional spiral pattern, or experiment with different folding techniques to create stripes, hearts, or even abstract designs. The best part about tie-dye is that no two designs will ever be the same, so each towel will be one of a kind.

Once your towels are dry, they’ll add a burst of color to your summer beach trips, poolside afternoons, or backyard picnics. A fun, creative project, tie-dye beach towels are perfect for those who want to infuse their outdoor living with personality and flair.

18. Crafty Wine Glass Charms

Hosting a summer dinner party or picnic? Wine glass charms are a fun and functional craft that will help guests keep track of their drinks while adding a personalized touch to the table setting.

To make your own wine glass charms, gather some beads, wire, and small charms. String the beads onto the wire, shaping it into a circle to fit around the stem of the glass. You can personalize the charms with initials, fun symbols, or summer-themed items like seashells, tiny flowers, or colorful gems.

These charming wine markers are an easy and thoughtful addition to any outdoor party, helping guests find their glasses while giving your gathering a whimsical, personalized touch.

19. Embroidered Sun Hats

Sun hats are a practical summer accessory, but why not make them even more special by adding your own personal touch? Embroidering a sun hat allows you to create a one-of-a-kind piece that is both functional and fashionable.

Start with a plain straw or fabric sun hat. Choose embroidery floss in your favorite colors and start stitching a design along the brim or the crown. Simple flowers, geometric patterns, or even inspirational quotes will give your hat a unique flair.

Not only will your embroidered sun hat protect you from the sun, but it will also elevate your summer look. It’s a great project to work on while relaxing on your modern back porch or preparing for a day out in the sun.

20. Summer-inspired Soap Making

Soap making is a fantastic summer craft that combines creativity with functionality. Create your own natural, scented soaps with tropical fragrances or soothing ingredients like lavender, mint, or coconut.

To make soap, start with a soap base (such as glycerin or shea butter), then melt it down and add your choice of colorants and fragrances. You can also mix in dried flowers, herbs, or essential oils for added texture and scent. Pour the mixture into molds and let it set.

These homemade soaps are perfect for personal use, gifting, or even adding a homemade touch to your bathroom décor. Plus, making soap is a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend an afternoon while getting creative with scents and textures.

21. DIY Tie-Dye Tote Bags

In addition to clothing, tie-dye can be applied to accessories like tote bags. This craft is a great way to create a unique, colorful bag that’s both practical and stylish for your summer outings.

Pick up a plain cotton tote bag and get ready to experiment with different tie-dye techniques. Whether you create a spiral pattern, rainbow stripes, or more abstract designs, your tote bag will be a perfect accessory for trips to the beach, shopping, or running errands.

The best part? Tie-dye is incredibly easy to do, making it a quick and satisfying craft to take on.

22. Upcycled Picture Frames

Repurpose old picture frames into stylish, personalized décor for your home or back porch. Upcycling picture frames is a simple craft that allows you to add a creative, vintage touch to your walls.

Start by collecting old frames, then give them a new life with a coat of paint, a bit of distressing, or decorative embellishments. You can also decorate them with seashells, ribbons, or fabric for a beach-inspired look.

Once your frames are ready, display your favorite summer memories inside them. These upcycled frames are perfect for adding charm to your space while reducing waste.

23. Watercolor Beach Prints

Watercolor painting is a beautiful and relaxing way to capture the essence of summer. Watercolor beach prints are especially popular because they evoke feelings of calm, relaxation, and sunshine.

To create your own watercolor beach print, use watercolor paints to paint soft, flowing beach scenes. Think sunsets, ocean waves, or sandy shores. The delicate wash of watercolor creates a dreamy, ethereal effect perfect for summer décor.

These prints are wonderful for decorating your home or gifting to friends. You can frame them and hang them on your back porch or use them as inspiration for your own beachside memories.

Conclusion

Summer is the perfect time to unleash your creativity and spend some quality time crafting. Whether you’re creating personalized décor for your backyard, making gifts for friends, or just having fun with your family, these 23 summer craft ideas will inspire you to embrace your artistic side.

From painting seashell jewelry to crafting your own macrame wall hangings, each project brings its own unique charm to your home. These crafts not only beautify your space but also provide the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy the season. So grab your supplies, find a sunny spot, and start crafting!