Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity for teens to explore their creative side! Whether it’s a rainy day, a sunny afternoon, or a lazy weekend, crafting offers a fantastic way to pass the time. Here are 21 summer craft ideas that will keep your teens engaged and inspired all summer long. From DIY accessories to room decor, these projects are not only fun but also practical, allowing teens to create something unique they can proudly show off.
1. DIY Friendship Bracelets
Friendship bracelets are timeless, and they make the perfect summer craft for teens. Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer a chance to bond with friends. These customizable bracelets are great for showcasing different colors, patterns, and personal styles.
To get started, all you need is some embroidery floss in various colors, scissors, and creativity. You can try out several different knots, including the basic overhand knot or more intricate designs like chevrons and diagonal stripes. You can even add beads or charms for extra flair.
Friendship bracelets don’t just have to be worn—teens can also give them as gifts to their besties, making them an ideal craft for summer bonding. Whether you’re hanging out at the beach or watching movies at home, making friendship bracelets is a relaxing and social activity that can go on for hours.
Additionally, teens can experiment with different bracelet styles, such as adjustable sliders or double-strand twists, to keep things fresh and exciting. This craft doesn’t require too many supplies, making it easy to start immediately, and it’s portable—perfect for crafting on the go.
2. Personalized Tote Bags
A tote bag is a practical accessory, but when it’s personalized, it becomes a unique statement piece. Teens can transform a plain, inexpensive canvas tote into a one-of-a-kind creation that reflects their personality.
Start by gathering supplies like fabric paint, markers, stencils, and iron-on transfers. Teens can stencil a favorite quote, draw a funky design, or even try their hand at tie-dying the bag for a more vibrant look.
This project is easy to customize based on personal style, and it’s a great way to add some extra flair to your summer wardrobe. The bags can also double as beach bags, gym totes, or carry-alls for everyday use.
For an added touch, consider decorating the handles with colorful yarn or adding fabric flowers for a boho-chic vibe. Making these personalized bags doesn’t just produce a fun accessory; it also gives teens the chance to showcase their individuality while creating something both beautiful and functional.
3. Macramé Wall Hangings
Macramé is making a huge comeback in home decor, and it’s a perfect craft for teens who enjoy working with their hands. With just a few basic knots, teens can create intricate and beautiful wall hangings that add style to any room.
To make a macramé wall hanging, teens need macramé cord or twine, a wooden dowel, and a basic understanding of a few knots such as the square knot, lark’s head knot, and the half knot. There are plenty of online tutorials available to help teens learn these knots and create their designs.
This craft is not only meditative but also allows for immense creativity. From bohemian-style wall hangings to more modern geometric designs, macramé offers endless possibilities. It’s also a great project for decorating a teen’s bedroom or even gifting a hand-made piece of art to a friend or family member.
4. Painted Rock Art
Painted rock art is a fun, eco-friendly craft that involves collecting rocks and transforming them into beautiful pieces of art. This activity is great for teens looking to experiment with painting and design, and the best part is that it’s easy to get started.
Start by collecting smooth, flat rocks from the outdoors or purchasing special painting rocks from craft stores. Then, use acrylic paint to design colorful, fun patterns or images on the rocks. You can paint everything from inspirational quotes to adorable animals, geometric patterns, or even abstract art.
Once the paint dries, teens can display their painted rocks in the garden, their rooms, or even hide them around the neighborhood as part of a “rock hunting” game. This craft encourages teens to get outside, be creative, and explore different art techniques.
5. DIY Dream Catchers
Dream catchers are a great way to add a personal touch to a teen’s bedroom, and making one can be a fun and fulfilling craft project. Traditionally believed to trap bad dreams, dream catchers have become a symbol of good vibes and positive energy, making them perfect for teens looking to decorate their spaces with meaning.
To create a dream catcher, you’ll need a metal or wooden hoop, some twine, yarn, feathers, beads, and a glue gun. Teens can start by wrapping the hoop with yarn and then creating a “web” in the center using twine. After that, it’s time to get creative with embellishments like colorful beads and feathers hanging from the bottom.
This project allows teens to play with colors and patterns and adds a calming, boho touch to their rooms. Dream catchers are not only fun to make but also a wonderful way to connect with Native American traditions while adding a sense of personal style.
6. Tie-Dye Clothing
Tie-dye is a fun, colorful, and popular summer craft that can turn a simple t-shirt into a work of art. With just a few basic supplies, like white cotton clothing, fabric dye, rubber bands, and plastic squeeze bottles, teens can create vibrant, one-of-a-kind designs.
The process of tie-dyeing involves folding, twisting, and binding the fabric with rubber bands before applying different colors of dye. There are various techniques, such as spirals, stripes, and bullseye patterns, that teens can experiment with to create their desired effect.
Tie-dye is a great summer craft because it allows teens to get creative with colors and styles. They can create matching outfits for friends, design shirts for family events, or simply make something that expresses their personality. The final result is always unique, making each project exciting and rewarding.
7. Homemade Candles
Creating homemade candles is a fun and practical craft that allows teens to experiment with scents, colors, and shapes. Making candles involves melting wax and adding fragrance oils before pouring it into molds or jars to set.
Teens can get as creative as they like by using different colored wax, adding essential oils for a calming scent, and experimenting with layered candles or unique containers. Some even like to embed dried flowers or glitter into the wax for added texture and beauty.
Candles are perfect for adding ambiance to any room, and they also make great gifts. Homemade candles are perfect for customizing with scents that match a teen’s personality, from refreshing lavender to warm vanilla or fruity citrus blends. Plus, it’s a fun project that results in something useful and personal.
8. Friendship Pottery
For teens who enjoy getting their hands a little messy, friendship pottery is a fantastic summer craft idea. With a bit of clay, creativity, and patience, teens can create beautiful handmade pottery pieces like mugs, bowls, or decorative items.
Teens can experiment with different techniques such as hand-building, pinching, or coil-building to create their own unique pottery designs. Once their creations are shaped and dried, they can be painted with bright colors, glazes, or textured patterns to give them an artistic touch.
If pottery wheels are available at local community centers or art studios, teens can also try wheel throwing to make more complex designs. Pottery allows for true creativity and individuality, and the process is both therapeutic and fun. Plus, homemade pottery makes wonderful gifts for friends and family.
9. Photo Collage Posters
A photo collage is a creative and sentimental way to preserve memories. Teens can collect their favorite photos, old ticket stubs, postcards, and other personal items to create a collage that tells a story.
To start, teens can gather photos from different times in their life or a specific theme like vacations, holidays, or family events. Once the photos are chosen, arrange them on a large poster board or in a scrapbook-style album. You can use scissors, glue sticks, or even tape to attach the photos, allowing for flexibility in design.
A photo collage isn’t just a craft; it’s a way to celebrate memories and keep them alive. It’s also an excellent way for teens to display their favorite moments from the summer or the previous year, serving as both a creative project and a meaningful keepsake.
10. Upcycled Jewelry
Jewelry-making doesn’t always require expensive supplies. Teens can repurpose old, unused jewelry pieces, broken chains, or even fabric scraps to create beautiful new accessories. This craft is an ideal way to be sustainable and stylish at the same time.
Teens can use pliers, beads, wires, and charms to reassemble their old jewelry pieces into new designs, whether it’s a bracelet, necklace, or pair of earrings. Additionally, teens can combine materials like leather, fabric, and buttons to create boho-inspired or vintage-style pieces.
Upcycled jewelry is a great way for teens to personalize their accessories and add a unique touch to their outfits. Plus, it encourages sustainability by reusing materials that would otherwise go to waste.
11. Embroidery Hoop Art
Embroidery hoop art is an excellent craft for teens who enjoy working with fabric and thread. Not only is it a relaxing activity, but it also results in a beautiful piece of art that can decorate any room.
To start, teens will need an embroidery hoop, fabric (like cotton or linen), embroidery floss, and needles. Using basic embroidery stitches such as the backstitch, French knot, and satin stitch, they can create designs ranging from simple flowers to intricate geometric patterns.
This craft offers endless possibilities—teens can design their own patterns or follow free embroidery designs found online. The finished product can be framed in the hoop or turned into a pillow, wall hanging, or even a decorative banner. It’s a great way to combine creativity with the satisfaction of making something by hand, and teens will love the personal touch it adds to their space.
12. Custom Phone Cases
Personalizing a phone case is a fun and practical way for teens to express their style. Since phone cases are used daily, why not make one that reflects their unique personality?
Teens can start with a plain, clear plastic or silicone phone case and then decorate it with paint, stickers, or washi tape. For a more intricate design, they can use Mod Podge to adhere fabric or add glitter. If they want to make it extra special, they can also add rhinestones, charms, or even create a custom photo collage for a one-of-a-kind look.
This craft is not only easy to execute but also allows teens to show off their creativity and make a useful accessory. Teens can also create phone cases for their friends and family, making them great DIY gifts!
13. Pressed Flower Art
Pressed flower art is a lovely, nature-inspired craft that brings the outdoors inside. Teens can collect flowers during summer walks or trips and preserve them to create beautiful artwork.
To press flowers, teens can lay them between the pages of a heavy book or use a flower press. After a few days, the flowers will be flattened and ready to be used in art projects. They can create everything from bookmarks to framed prints or even greeting cards.
Pressed flowers bring a natural, delicate touch to any craft, and the finished pieces are perfect for adding elegance to any space. This craft allows teens to connect with nature while creating something both beautiful and meaningful.
14. Upcycled Denim Projects
Give old denim a second life by turning it into something new and stylish. Upcycling denim is a great way for teens to be creative while embracing sustainability.
Teens can take an old pair of jeans and cut them into shorts, create a denim bag, or even use the fabric to make custom patches for jackets. Another fun project is creating a denim quilt by cutting up old denim into squares and stitching them together for a trendy, eco-friendly blanket.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to upcycled denim, and it’s a great way to create something unique and sustainable. Plus, it’s an excellent way for teens to personalize their clothing while reducing waste.
15. Homemade Lip Balm
Making homemade lip balm is an easy and fun craft that results in a practical, natural product teens can use daily. You can customize the scent and color of the lip balm based on personal preference, making it a fantastic DIY project.
To make lip balm, teens need beeswax, coconut oil, and a few essential oils (like peppermint, lavender, or vanilla). They can melt the beeswax and coconut oil together, add the essential oils for fragrance, and pour the mixture into small containers to set.
Not only is this craft enjoyable, but it also gives teens a chance to learn about natural ingredients and DIY skincare. Homemade lip balms also make great gifts, and teens can even experiment with different colors or add glitter for extra sparkle!
16. No-Sew Felt Pillows
For teens who don’t have a sewing machine, no-sew felt pillows are a perfect project. Felt is easy to work with, and this craft requires no stitching—just glue and creativity.
Teens can cut felt into their desired shapes, such as squares or circles, and then glue the edges together. They can also personalize the pillows by adding embellishments like fabric paint, buttons, or felt flowers to give them a custom look.
These no-sew felt pillows make fantastic room decor and are perfect for adding comfort and style to any space. They are also an ideal craft project for teens looking for a quick, easy, and fun activity to do during summer.
17. Clay Jewelry Dishes
Teens can create personalized clay jewelry dishes to store their rings, earrings, or other small trinkets. This project involves molding clay into small, shallow dishes and then painting or glazing them for a stylish finish.
Teens can use air-dry clay to shape the dishes into any size or shape they like. After molding, they can add color and texture with acrylic paints or metallic markers to create beautiful patterns and designs.
These jewelry dishes not only serve as a functional craft but also add a touch of elegance to any room. Plus, they make excellent handmade gifts for friends and family.
18. Painted Plant Pots
If your teen has a green thumb, a great way to combine gardening and art is by painting plant pots. With some basic acrylic paint and creativity, teens can transform plain terracotta pots into unique, colorful pieces that showcase their personality.
Teens can paint fun patterns, inspirational quotes, or even nature-themed designs on the pots. Once the paint is dry, these pots are ready to be filled with flowers or succulents.
This project gives teens the chance to explore their artistic side while also incorporating a bit of nature into their homes. It’s an ideal craft for outdoor living spaces or adding a pop of color to their rooms.
19. DIY Wall Decals
Custom wall decals are a fantastic way to add personality and flair to a teen’s room without the commitment of painting or wallpaper. Using vinyl sheets or fabric, teens can create their own designs to decorate their walls.
Teens can cut out shapes, words, or images and apply them to their walls. They can even experiment with stenciling designs or creating a feature wall with different patterns. These decals can be removed without damage, making them perfect for personalizing their space temporarily.
Wall decals offer endless design possibilities, allowing teens to experiment with various styles, from minimalist to bold, without the commitment of permanent changes. Plus, they make redecorating easy and fun.
20. Friendship Keychains
Friendship keychains are a classic way to show you care, and they’re a fun craft for teens to make for their friends and family. Keychains are small, customizable, and portable—perfect for a gift or personal use.
Teens can make keychains out of beads, leather, or paracord, or even use small charms and pendants to create unique designs. They can choose colors and themes that match their friends’ personalities, making this craft especially personal.
Friendship keychains are simple to make but always meaningful. Plus, they’re perfect for teens to make together while hanging out, making this craft both a creative and social activity.
21. Quilted Patches
Quilted patches are a creative way for teens to personalize their clothing or accessories. By cutting fabric into fun shapes and sewing them together, teens can create stylish patches to add to jackets, backpacks, or hats.
This craft requires basic sewing skills but is a great way to learn the art of quilting. Teens can use different fabrics and colors to create patterns or even personalized designs like their initials, favorite symbols, or cool motifs.
Quilted patches add a fun, handmade touch to everyday items, and it’s a craft that can be continued throughout the year. Teens can make a patch for almost anything and experiment with different combinations of fabric, color, and stitching.
Conclusion
With these 21 summer crafts for teens ideas, your teen can have an endlessly fun and creative summer. From trendy DIY accessories like friendship bracelets and personalized phone cases to room decor projects like macramé wall hangings and painted plant pots, there’s a craft for every teen to enjoy.
Whether they want to explore new hobbies, bond with friends, or create something beautiful and functional, these crafts provide the perfect way to inspire creativity while learning new skills. And don’t forget, many of these projects can double as great gifts—allowing teens to share their creations with the people they care about.
So grab some supplies, let your teen’s creativity flow, and make this summer one to remember with these exciting craft ideas!
