There’s no better way to spend a day than by getting crafty. With the summer holidays coming up, it’s the perfect time to start planning some easy crafts to do at home with the kids.

If you’re lacking inspiration when it comes to easy craft ideas, don’t worry! All you need for these easy at-home crafts is plenty of enthusiasm and a few simple items for hours of fun.

Why are arts and crafts important for kids?

Arts and crafts are a lot of fun, but being creative is also important for a child’s

development. Studies have shown that arts and crafts can also help with:

• Problem-solving
• Building confidence
• Fine motor skills

No matter what age we are, there’s nothing better than getting lost in a creative pursuit. Keep reading for easy craft ideas for kids (and adults) to make at home:

Easy Craft Ideas for Kids to Make at Home

1. DIY Dreamcatchers

All you need to get started making dreamcatchers is some cotton wool, an embroidery hoop and plenty of creativity. You can personalise to your heart’s content by using different coloured cotton wool, coloured tissue paper and feathers- we love these seriously creative unicorn dreamcatchers.

2. Make Your Own Slime

If you’re looking for fun crafts for kids and big kids alike, slime is sure to be a winner. You only need a few simple household ingredients to make this slime recipe. Once you’ve mastered the art of slime-making, you can add colours or alter the recipe to make fluffy slime, or even scented slime.

3. Paper Plate Turtles… or anything else

When it comes to easy paper crafts for kids, don’t underestimate the humble paper plate. We love these brightly-coloured paper plate turtles, decorated with multicoloured tissue paper.

If you’re looking for some more easy paper crafts for kids, why not try:

• Jellyfish
• Halloween Pumpkins
• Ladybirds
• Rainbows

4. DIY Pom Poms

If you’re wondering how to make crafts at home for kids, pom poms are a great place to start. Making pom poms from scratch is simple; all you need to get started is some cardboard (a cereal packet will do) and some brightly coloured wool of your choice.

Once you’ve mastered the art of making pom poms, why not turn them into these adorable pom pom piglets, or use them to make a wall hanging.

5. Tie Dye

Tie dye is a great way to brighten up an old t-shirt and promises to deliver that “wow” moment when you see the finished product.

The tie-dyeing process is simple; you tie an old t-shirt (or whatever item that you want to dye) before applying coloured dye to certain sections. This activity is great for kids, and they’ll love wearing their new creation.

6. Paper Chain Hungry Caterpillar

Paper chains are an easy paper craft for kids to do – with the added bonus of minimal mess.

If your child loves “The Very Hungry Caterpillar”, you can use the paper chain technique to bring the loveable book character to life

Kids will love getting stuck in cutting strips on paper using blunted scissors and decorating the caterpillar’s face with googly eyes and a pair of antennae.

7. Make Your Own Soap

Soap making is an activity more suitable for older kids, and adults should always take the reins when it comes to pouring the hot, melted soap into the moulds. But with adult supervision, this is an activity that the whole family can enjoy.

With soap making, you can play around with different colours and scents, and create beautiful gifts (if you aren’t tempted to keep them for yourself). Why not try this rainbow soap guide – and add a few drops of essential oil for a soothing scent.

8. Egg Carton Bugs

Recycling is important – and recycled egg cartons are also one of the most versatile objects when it comes to easy at home crafts. Kids will love turning an old egg carton into their favourite insects!

Simply cut up an old egg carton into individual cups, and paint them in different colours before setting them out to dry. Once the painted cups are dry, simply add your own personal touches such as like googly eyes pipe cleaners legs to create a family of different creepy-crawlies!

9. Painted Rocks

When it comes to art and craft ideas for home, rock painting is the perfect choice for a rainy day- or any day for that matter!

The beauty of rock painting is that you can also make an activity of going out and letting your kids find the perfect rocks to paint.

Of course, there’s no wrong way to paint, but if you’re looking for a bit of design inspiration, we love these strawberry painted rocks, which would look great in your home or garden!

10. Fairy Mason Jars

Mason jars are everywhere right now – and the crafty possibilities with these stylish jars are endless.

We love the idea of creating a fairy in a jar, using coloured glitter and glow sticks for a magical effect.

11. DIY Jewelry

Kids love making daisy chain jewellery, so why not switch up the flowers for something that will last a little longer?

It might be tempting to use ready-made beads, kids can make their own beads using dyed pasta, or even make them out of paper from old books.

Looking for more DIY and art and craft ideas? Take a look at our badge making kits and head to our blog for more easy crafts to do at home.

Happy crafting!

Make your own badges today