Summer is the perfect time for teens to explore their creativity and unwind from schoolwork. Whether you’re looking for fun activities to enjoy with friends or trying to make something unique for your space, summer crafts offer endless possibilities. From DIY fashion to home decor, these 25 craft ideas will keep your teens busy all summer long, and they’re all easy to follow! Here’s a list of the first 10 summer craft ideas to get started.

1. DIY Tie-Dye T-Shirts: A Colorful Way to Express Yourself

Tie-dye has made a major comeback in recent years, and it’s a fun, creative way to spend a summer afternoon. All you need are plain white t-shirts, fabric dye, rubber bands, and plastic squeeze bottles. The process is simple and offers endless patterns and color combinations that allow teens to express their unique personalities.

To start, fold the t-shirt in various ways, such as a spiral, accordion, or crumple design. Secure the folds with rubber bands, then apply different colors of dye to different sections. For a bright and bold summer wardrobe, you can go wild with neon colors, or opt for pastels for a more relaxed, bohemian look. Allow the shirts to dry completely, and then wash them separately to set the color.

This is also a great craft to do with friends. You can trade shirts at the end, or host a tie-dye party for an afternoon of creative fun.

2. Custom Painted Flower Pots: Bring Nature into Your Space

Give your summer garden a creative twist with custom-painted flower pots. Not only does this craft give new life to old pots, but it’s also an opportunity for teens to express their creativity and make something beautiful to enhance their outdoor spaces.

Start by collecting a few inexpensive, plain terra cotta pots. These are widely available at craft stores and garden centers. Clean and dry the pots thoroughly, then apply a coat of primer if desired. Once dry, teens can use acrylic paints to add vibrant patterns, designs, or even personalized quotes on their flower pots. You can experiment with stripes, geometric designs, or floral motifs to suit different tastes.

When the paint dries, add some fresh soil and your favorite plants to complete the look. These painted pots can be placed on the porch, balcony, or in the garden for an extra touch of charm.

3. Friendship Bracelets: A Fun Craft to Share with Friends

Friendship bracelets are a classic craft that’s perfect for summer, especially for teens who enjoy making something special to share with friends. This craft is simple, but there are so many ways to customize it with colors, beads, and different knotting techniques. It’s a great activity to do during summer road trips, sleepovers, or hangouts.

To get started, gather embroidery floss in various colors. Cut several strands to the desired length and start knotting them together using simple techniques like the forward knot or backward knot. Teens can experiment with different designs such as chevron, diagonal stripes, or twisted ropes.

Once the bracelet is finished, tie it around a friend’s wrist as a gesture of friendship. These bracelets can also be made into anklets, keychains, or even added to backpacks for a cute accessory.

4. Handmade Dreamcatchers: Create Your Own Boho Chic Decor

Dreamcatchers are a fun and decorative craft that adds a touch of bohemian flair to any room. Teens can create their own dreamcatchers by weaving intricate webs using string or thread, adding beads, feathers, and charms for extra personalization. Not only is this a creative project, but it also adds a calming, artistic vibe to their space.

Begin by gathering the necessary materials: a metal ring (or a wooden hoop), string or yarn, beads, feathers, and optional paint or ribbon for decorating. Start by wrapping the ring with string, then move on to creating the web in the center. Teens can use different knots or even beads to create a unique pattern.

Once the web is complete, add feathers, beads, and charms for decoration. The dreamcatcher can be hung above a bed, on a wall, or even used as a car accessory to add some personality to your space.

5. Upcycled Denim Crafts: Transform Old Jeans into Trendy Accessories

Instead of throwing away old jeans, why not transform them into something stylish and useful? Upcycling denim is an eco-friendly craft that allows teens to create accessories, home decor, or even new clothing items from old, worn-out jeans.

Start by cutting up old denim jeans into various shapes and sizes, and think about what you could create with the fabric. For example, you can cut the fabric into strips to make a denim bracelet or turn it into a fashionable bag. A denim pouch or wallet is also a great idea for carrying essentials during the summer months.

Denim is durable and versatile, so the possibilities for upcycled denim crafts are endless. Teens can add embellishments like studs, patches, or embroidery to make the creations even more personalized. This is a great way to repurpose fabric that would otherwise go to waste, all while creating something useful and trendy.

6. Painted Rock Art: Turn Rocks into Miniature Masterpieces

Another fun and creative craft is painted rock art. This project is not only simple, but it’s also a great way to explore nature while creating something beautiful. Teens can collect rocks during a hike or in their backyard, and transform them into little works of art using paint.

To get started, select a few smooth rocks with a flat surface. Clean the rocks thoroughly and let them dry. Then, using acrylic paints, teens can paint animals, flowers, geometric patterns, or inspirational quotes onto the rocks. They can use fine-tipped brushes for intricate designs or go for a more abstract approach.

Once the paint is dry, the rocks can be displayed in a garden, used as paperweights, or even hidden around the neighborhood for others to find as part of a “rock painting” trend that encourages kindness and creativity.

7. No-Sew T-Shirt Tote Bags: Simple, Sustainable, and Stylish

T-shirt tote bags are a fun, no-sew project that’s not only useful but also environmentally friendly. With just a plain t-shirt and some scissors, teens can create their very own reusable bags for shopping, the beach, or daily use.

To create a no-sew tote, start by cutting the sleeves off a t-shirt, then trim the neckline to form the bag opening. Next, cut the bottom of the shirt into strips, then tie the strips together to create a knotted bottom. This technique eliminates the need for sewing, making it quick and simple.

Teens can customize the tote bags by adding fabric paint, beads, or iron-on designs. It’s a fun and eco-conscious craft that promotes reusing materials and cutting down on plastic bag use.

8. Polymer Clay Jewelry: Mold Your Own Statement Pieces

Polymer clay jewelry is a trendy craft that allows teens to create their own unique jewelry pieces. From earrings and necklaces to rings and bracelets, the possibilities are endless when it comes to designing with polymer clay. Plus, the clay is easy to mold, bake, and customize.

Start by gathering a variety of polymer clay colors. Teens can mix the clay to create custom hues or use it in its natural form. Using tools like rolling pins, cutters, and molds, shape the clay into pendants, beads, or earrings. Once shaped, bake the clay according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

The finished pieces can be worn as-is or decorated with glitter, paint, or gold leaf for a more luxurious look. This is a great craft to do with friends or family, and the jewelry can be gifted to loved ones or sold at local markets.

9. DIY Lip Balm: Make Your Own Natural Beauty Products

Teens can combine creativity with self-care by making their own lip balms. This DIY craft allows them to experiment with different scents, colors, and textures, all while making a product that’s both practical and nourishing. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure that the lip balms are made with natural, healthy ingredients.

Start by gathering beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, and essential oils. Melt the beeswax and oils together in a double boiler, then add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance and colorants (such as mica powder or natural pigments). Pour the mixture into small containers or empty lip balm tubes and let them cool.

These homemade lip balms are perfect for summer, as they can keep lips moisturized while adding a subtle scent. Teens can also decorate the containers with stickers or labels for a personal touch.

10. Scrapbook Your Summer Memories: A Creative Keepsake

Scrapbooking is a wonderful way for teens to document their summer adventures. By capturing photos, ticket stubs, and other mementos, they can create a lasting memory book that’s both creative and sentimental. This project encourages teens to reflect on their summer experiences while giving them the opportunity to explore their artistic side.

Start with a basic scrapbook album, and collect all the photos and items that represent summer activities such as beach days, family barbecues, and trips with friends. Teens can use washi tape, stickers, and colorful paper to decorate each page. For a personal touch, add handwritten notes, quotes, and captions to bring the memories to life.

Not only is scrapbooking a great creative outlet, but it also provides a keepsake that can be cherished for years to come.

11. Mini Terrariums: Create a Tiny Garden in a Jar

Mini terrariums are a wonderful way to bring nature indoors and create a personalized, low-maintenance garden. Teens can use glass jars, old lightbulbs, or even small fish tanks to craft their very own miniature ecosystem. It’s a perfect project for those who enjoy gardening or just want to add a bit of greenery to their room.

Start by collecting a variety of small succulents or air plants, which require minimal care. You’ll also need some rocks, pebbles, activated charcoal (to prevent odor), potting soil, and moss. Begin by layering the bottom of your container with rocks for drainage, then add the charcoal and soil.

Teens can personalize their terrariums by adding decorative items like tiny figurines, shells, or colored stones. Once complete, these miniature gardens can be placed on shelves or desks, adding a touch of nature to any space.

12. DIY Candle Making: Craft Scented Candles for Your Space

Candle making is a fun craft that lets teens create custom-scented candles to light up their homes. This project is simple to do, and with the right materials, teens can make candles in their favorite scents, colors, and shapes. It’s also a great gift idea for friends and family during the summer months.

To get started, you’ll need wax (soy wax is a great eco-friendly option), wick, candle dye, fragrance oils, and a container (like a mason jar or a tin can). Begin by melting the wax in a double boiler. Once it’s melted, add fragrance oils and dye to the wax, then carefully pour it into the container with the wick positioned in the center.

Teens can decorate the outside of the container with ribbons, labels, or dried flowers for a personalized touch. These handmade candles not only make great decor but also provide a soothing ambiance for any space.

13. Fabric Keychains: Make Personalized Accessories

Fabric keychains are a simple yet trendy craft that teens can use to create unique accessories for their bags, backpacks, or keys. This project requires minimal sewing skills and is a great way to repurpose fabric scraps or old clothes.

Start by cutting fabric into small rectangles or shapes. Using a sewing machine (or hand-stitching), sew the edges to form a small pouch or shape. Add embellishments like embroidery, beads, or buttons to personalize the keychain. For added durability, you can also add a key ring or lobster clasp to the fabric.

Teens can experiment with different fabrics, colors, and patterns to create keychains that match their personal style. These handmade accessories are a fun, creative way to carry a little piece of art wherever they go.

14. Embroidery Hoop Art: A Trendy Way to Decorate Your Walls

Embroidery hoop art is an easy yet elegant craft that allows teens to decorate their walls with colorful designs and patterns. Using an embroidery hoop as a frame, they can create stunning art pieces using various embroidery stitches and techniques.

To get started, you’ll need an embroidery hoop, fabric (such as linen or cotton), embroidery floss, and a needle. Start by placing the fabric in the hoop and securing it tightly. Teens can then use different embroidery stitches like cross-stitch, satin stitch, or French knots to create intricate designs such as florals, animals, or geometric patterns.

This craft is perfect for teens who enjoy sewing and want to add a personal touch to their room decor. Finished pieces can be hung on walls, placed on shelves, or even gifted to friends.

15. Bath Bombs: Create Your Own Relaxing Spa Products

Bath bombs are a fun and relaxing craft that allows teens to create their own bath-time essentials. With simple ingredients like baking soda, citric acid, essential oils, and food coloring, they can make bath bombs in a variety of shapes and scents.

To make the bath bombs, mix the dry ingredients together in a bowl, then slowly add water and essential oils while stirring until the mixture has a damp, sand-like texture. Press the mixture into molds and let them dry overnight.

Teens can experiment with different scents and colors, creating unique combinations like lavender, citrus, or rose. These handmade bath bombs not only provide a soothing spa experience but can also be packaged in cute jars or bags for gifting.

16. Paper Mâché Projects: Crafting with Recycled Materials

Paper mâché is a fun, hands-on craft that’s perfect for creating sculptural art pieces or even home decor items. By using old newspapers, glue, and a bit of creativity, teens can craft everything from masks and bowls to small sculptures.

Start by tearing up old newspapers into small pieces and mixing them with a flour-and-water paste. Apply the paper strips to a mold (such as a balloon or cardboard frame), then allow the piece to dry completely. Once dry, teens can paint and decorate their creations.

This is an excellent way to recycle materials and create fun, quirky art pieces. Teens can make masks for costume parties, or even create bowls or vases that can be used in home decor.

17. String Art: A Creative Way to Display Your Art

String art is a trendy craft that involves creating designs by wrapping colorful string around nails or pins on a wooden board. The result is a geometric or abstract piece of art that’s perfect for decorating a teen’s room or workspace.

Start by choosing a design, such as a heart, star, or animal shape, and sketch it out on a piece of wood. Hammer nails or push pins along the outline of the shape. Then, use brightly colored thread to wrap around the nails in various patterns, creating a textured, vibrant piece of art.

Teens can experiment with different color combinations and shapes to create unique designs. String art is not only fun to make but also creates eye-catching decor that can brighten up any room.

18. Macramé Wall Hangings: Add Bohemian Vibes to Any Room

Macramé is a classic craft that adds a rustic, bohemian touch to any room. With a few basic knots, teens can create beautiful wall hangings that make a statement in their homes. This craft requires patience, but the results are worth the effort.

To start, you’ll need macramé cord, a wooden dowel, and some basic knotting techniques. Teens can begin with simple knots like the square knot or lark’s head knot and build more intricate patterns as they gain confidence. The finished wall hanging can be personalized with beads, feathers, or even dyed cords.

Macramé wall hangings are perfect for adding texture and personality to a bedroom, living room, or even the back porch.

19. Upcycled Craft Projects: Turn Old Items into New Creations

Upcycling is a fantastic way to create unique and eco-friendly crafts from items you already have around the house. Teens can transform old clothes, cardboard, cans, or bottles into new and functional pieces, from art to home decor.

For example, you can turn an old sweater into a cozy pillow, or repurpose cans into pencil holders or flower vases. The possibilities are endless, and this craft is perfect for teens who love to experiment and get creative with everyday materials.

By reusing items, teens not only save money but also reduce waste, making this an environmentally friendly craft that’s both fun and rewarding.

20. Beaded Hair Accessories: Add Sparkle to Your Summer Look

Beaded hair accessories are a fun, fashionable craft that teens can use to create unique and sparkly pieces for their summer hairstyles. Whether it’s beaded hairbands, clips, or scrunchies, these accessories can add a pop of color and shine to any look.

Start by gathering beads, wire, and hair accessories such as barrettes or elastic bands. Teens can design their own patterns by stringing beads onto the wire or thread and then attaching them to their chosen accessory. This is a great way to create a personalized, standout piece that will complement any outfit.

21. Decorative Mason Jars: Transform Ordinary Jars into Cute Containers

Mason jars are versatile and can be transformed into many different types of functional and decorative items. Teens can use mason jars to create candles, storage containers, or even terrariums, making them an ideal craft for any summer project.

To decorate mason jars, teens can use paint, ribbon, lace, or even chalkboard labels to personalize each jar. They can fill them with candles, flowers, or even use them as storage for supplies like pens or makeup brushes. Mason jars are not only functional but also add a vintage, rustic charm to any room.

22. DIY Polaroid Frames: Display Your Favorite Memories

Create personalized frames to showcase your favorite Polaroid photos or instant pictures from a summer vacation. This craft is a fun way to display cherished memories while adding a creative touch to the decor.

Teens can use popsicle sticks, cardboard, or even old picture frames to create their own photo frames. Decorate them with paint, washi tape, or embellishments like rhinestones and glitter. This craft allows teens to keep their favorite summer moments on display in a creative and fun way.

23. Hand-Painted Beach Stones: Keep the Beach Vibes Going

If you’ve spent a lot of time at the beach this summer, why not bring a little bit of the beach home? Teens can collect small, smooth stones and paint them with beach-inspired designs such as waves, shells, or palm trees.

This simple yet fun project allows teens to experiment with different colors and textures to create unique pieces of art. Once finished, these painted beach stones can be displayed in a garden, used as paperweights, or even given as thoughtful gifts.

24. Sew Your Own Summer Tote: A Fashionable and Functional Project

A summer tote is a must-have accessory for beach trips, picnics, or shopping. Teens who enjoy sewing can create their own personalized tote bags in fun fabrics and designs.

To get started, teens will need a pattern, fabric, thread, and a sewing machine. Once they’ve sewn together the sides and handles, they can add embellishments like embroidery, patches, or pockets to make the bag uniquely theirs. These totes are not only fashionable but also functional, making them the perfect accessory for a summer day out.

25. Glitter Slime: A Fun and Sparkly Sensory Activity

For teens who love tactile activities, glitter slime is the perfect summer craft. It’s easy to make, super fun to play with, and adds a little sparkle to your day.

Start by mixing glue, baking soda, and contact lens solution. Then, add glitter or confetti for a sparkly effect. Teens can experiment with different colors and textures, making it as stretchy or thick as they like. The result is a glittery, fun sensory experience that can be customized in so many ways.

Conclusion: Let the Creativity Flow This Summer

These 25 summer crafts are perfect for teens who want to make the most of their summer break. Whether you’re looking to add a personal touch to your home, create thoughtful gifts, or express yourself through art, these DIY projects are guaranteed to provide endless hours of fun and creativity.

From colorful tie-dye shirts to functional upcycled projects, there’s a craft for everyone on this list. So gather your supplies, invite your friends, and get crafting! Summer is the perfect time to let your imagination run wild and create something truly special. Happy crafting!