These summer crafts for teens and tweens offer a mix of colorful art, hands-on techniques, and projects they can display or use. Some are ideal for a relaxed afternoon at home, while others work well as group activities with friends. Encourage young artists to adapt the ideas, experiment with materials, and make each project their own.
Older kids often enjoy learning a new skill and creating something personal for their room or wardrobe. A project does not have to follow a rigid set of instructions: offer a few materials and ideas, then leave space for individual choices. Some activities require specific supplies, while others can be adapted with items already at home.
For group sessions, set out materials before getting started and choose a work area that is easy to clean. Activities involving dyes, paints, scissors, or small pieces should be supervised as appropriate for the ages and abilities of the participants.
Summer crafts for teens and tweens
1. Dye sand for layered art bottles
Colored sand layered in a clear bottle makes a bright decorative piece. The original project used sand collected from Rhode Island beaches and recycled juice bottles. Sand can be dyed in sealed bags or sturdy containers; allow for its weight when choosing a vessel. A funnel can help keep the layers neat, and recycled clear bottles are a practical option if they are clean and dry.
2. Make a spin-art wall
A salad spinner can create lively patterns when small pieces of paper and washable paint are spun together. Cut plenty of paper squares in advance, and use a washable paint that can be dispensed in small amounts. As colors overlap, participants can observe how the patterns change. Protect the work surface and let each piece dry before arranging it as a wall display.
3. Create a rainbow weaving
For a soft, colorful weaving, dye wool roving or use ready-colored yarn. If dyeing yarn, choose 100% wool or 100% cotton; acrylic fibers do not absorb dye in the same way. This activity introduces weaving through repeated over-and-under movements. A simple frame or cardboard loom can help beginners keep the strands in place.
4. Paint coffee-filter wall art
Coffee filters absorb water-based color and become translucent, giving them a different look from ordinary paper. Put down a drying area before painting, since several filters may need space at once. Once they are dry, add lines, dots, or other marks to build up the designs. Hanging a group together can turn individual pieces into a coordinated display.
5. Make a papel picado garland
This project uses brightly painted coffee filters inspired by papel picado, the decorative cut-paper tradition associated with Mexico. Paint the filters with liquid watercolors, let them dry, then fold and cut small shapes along the edges. Open each piece carefully to reveal its pattern. Try different folds and cuts, and use scissors safely when working with younger participants.
6. Try Anna Blatman-inspired glue batik
This batik-inspired activity uses glue to create a resist pattern on fabric. After the design is complete, washing away the glue becomes part of the process. Set up a suitable washing area in advance; a tub or outdoor workspace can make cleanup easier. Keep the activity playful, and allow time for the fabric to be rinsed and handled carefully.
7. Turn plastic jars into lanterns
Large, clean plastic jars can become decorative lanterns with tissue paper, washi tape, string, and wire. Ask local food businesses whether they have suitable empty containers to reuse. Another option is to make colorful collage pieces on newspaper or coffee filters. Use battery-operated lighting rather than an open flame, and make sure any wire ends are safely secured.
8. Explore indigo shibori dyeing
Shibori combines folding, binding, and dyeing to create patterned fabric. During indigo dyeing, the fabric can appear green at first and then turn a deep blue as the dye oxidizes. Set up outdoors with large mixing containers and rubber gloves, and protect clothing and nearby surfaces from stains. Experimenting with different folds and ties can produce varied results.
9. Build cardboard animals inspired by Clare Youngs
Cut animal shapes from cardboard and decorate them with acrylic paint. Participants can choose warm colors, cool colors, or a combination, then add patterns and small details. Lay down a protective covering and allow the painted pieces to dry fully before displaying or assembling them.
10. Make blind-contour paintings
Blind-contour drawing means looking at a subject while drawing without focusing on the paper. The results can be funny, expressive, and different every time. Older kids can extend the activity by adding colorful patterns or a painted background. Displaying several finished pieces together makes an eye-catching gallery wall.
11. Make tactile modeling-compound slime
This slime variation combines slime with a soft modeling compound for a distinctive tactile activity. The original recipe is credited to Ava and includes a video. Follow the recipe’s directions closely, keep the mixture away from mouths and eyes, and wash hands after playing. Slime is for handling, not eating, even when it looks appealing.
More creative projects for teens and tweens
For more ideas, explore projects such as the craft collection below and paper-mache activities. When choosing a project, consider the available workspace, materials, and cleanup time so the activity is enjoyable from start to finish.
13 Crafts for Teens & Tweens
20 Paper Mache Ideas for Kids
Choosing summer crafts for teens and tweens
The best summer crafts for teens and tweens balance a clear starting point with room to experiment. Gather supplies ahead of time, adapt materials where possible, and let each person make creative decisions. The result can be a new skill, a handmade decoration, or simply an enjoyable way to spend time together.
