7 DIY summer craft ideas

Summertime is a great time for DIYs, and Cheryl’s favorite projects are always those that have some function.

Take our personalized planter for example; it is not only a beautiful addition to a front porch or stoop, but it also doubles as an identifier and warm welcome to guests–something we absolutely love.

Repurposing items is also big on our list when crafting, which is why we took some old jars and turned them into lanterns with a few rubber bands and some paint. They were super easy to make and the results speak for themselves!

You can check out these projects and more on this list of fun and easy DIY summer craft ideas, complete with step-by-step instructions on how to make them your own. Enjoy!

1. Painted placemats

Table top treasure

We are always on the lookout for unique ways to create placemats, so when we discovered cork tiles we knew we were on to something great! With a little fabric paint and stamps, we created custom cork placemats that are sure to be a conversation starter again and again!

2. DIY personalized planter

Upcycled entryway

Everyone has an old terracotta pot or two laying around, and maybe even some leftover paint. Take these two things and create an adorable personalized planter with your family name or house number to spruce up your entryway. They make awesome housewarming gifts too!

3. Vacation memory jar

The way we were

Want to do something special with your vacation keepsakes but scrapbooking is not your thing? Turn memories into treasured mementos with our easy DIY Memory Jars. The kiddos will love helping you with this simple craft, and Grandparents will love getting them as gifts and showing them off!

4. DIY beach bucket

The perfect carryall

This simple DIY is as functional as it is fun! Use a steel utility bucket, fabric, and Mod Podge to create this adorable beach bucket to carry flip flops, towels, suntan lotion and other beach necessities. This great carryall is just as fabulous for a girl’s day in the sun as it is for the kiddos!

5. Rolling storage table

Break out the drill–it’s building time

Need some storage in your backyard? We picked up an unfinished wood crate from a home improvement store and added a tabletop to make this adorable DIY storage table—a charming and functional addition to your outdoor living space.

6. DIY painted skewers

Color coded fun

Do your kiddos battle over who gets what skewer to roast marshmallows with at camp fire time? Win the war once and for all with our DIY painted skewers. They are color coded so everyone knows whose is whose, and we even made a canvas tote for them to call home. Package with some graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate for an easy DIY gift!

7. Upcycled garden lights

Let there be light!

Outdoor lighting can add just the right ambiance to an evening backyard gathering, but it can also be expensive. That’s why we took some old glass jars and upcycled them into simple yet stunning lanterns using rubber bands, spray paint and crafting wire. Finish with a tea light and you’ll have all the ambiance without the department store price.