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When school’s out and the days feel long, summer is the perfect time for teens to try fun, creative projects. Crafting keeps hands busy, sparks imagination, and gives them something cool (and sometimes useful) to show off when they’re done.
These ideas are easy to set up, affordable, and great for solo time or group hangouts. Here are 13 creative summer crafts that teens will actually enjoy making!
1. Tie-Dye T-Shirts or Tote Bags
Grab a plain shirt or bag and a tie-dye kit. Let teens create bold, colorful designs that are one-of-a-kind.
Why it works
It’s messy in a fun way, and they end up with something they can wear or use.
2. Friendship Bracelets
Stock up on colorful threads, beads, or charms. Teens can braid or knot patterns to swap with friends.
Why it works
It’s simple, portable, and a classic summer craft that never goes out of style.
3. Painted Flower Pots
Provide small terracotta pots and acrylic paints. Let them decorate with patterns, quotes, or characters.
Why it works
It’s creative, and they can use the finished pot for plants, pencils, or keepsakes.
4. DIY Phone Case Art
Get clear phone cases and let teens customize them with stickers, paint pens, or pressed flowers.
Why it works
It’s personal, useful, and gives their phone a unique look without spending big.
5. Sharpie Mug Designs
Plain white mugs + oil-based Sharpie markers endless design possibilities. Bake in the oven to set the artwork.
Why it works
It’s low-cost, and the finished mugs make fun gifts or desk accessories.
6. Scrapbook or Summer Journal
Give them a blank notebook, washi tape, stickers, and markers. They can fill it with summer memories, photos, or doodles.
Why it works
Encourages self-expression and gives them a keepsake of the season.
7. Macramé Keychains or Wall Hangings
Provide cord or yarn and a few simple tutorials. Teens can try basic knots to create small decor or keychains.
Why it works
It’s trendy, satisfying to make, and great for beginners.
8. Resin Charms or Jewelry
With a starter kit, teens can create custom resin pieces using glitter, dried flowers, or tiny charms.
Why it works
The results look store-bought, and they can make gifts or items to sell.
9. Watercolor Postcards
Set out watercolor paints and blank cards. Teens can create mini masterpieces to mail to friends or display.
Why it works
It’s calming, creative, and gives a reason to stay in touch over summer.
10. Decorated Canvas Tote Bags
Fabric paint, patches, or iron-on designs help turn a plain tote into a fun, functional piece of art.
Why it works
It’s practical, and they’ll love using something they made themselves.
11. Bottle Cap Magnets
Collect bottle caps and glue on small photos or designs inside. Add a magnet strip to the back.
Why it works
It’s a great upcycling project and perfect for decorating lockers or fridges.
12. Clay Trinket Dishes
Air-dry clay lets teens shape small dishes, then paint or decorate them once dry.
Why it works
The project is easy to customize, and the finished dish is handy for holding jewelry or keys.
13. DIY Sun Catchers
Use clear glue, food coloring, and plastic lids as molds. Once dry, hang in a sunny window.
Why it works
It’s colorful, fun to make, and adds a bright touch to their room.
