6 Fun Summer Crafts
Hello everyone! I wanted to say sorry for being MIA for the past month or so. I've been dealing with some health stuff, but I'm happy to report that I'm feeling much better now and excited to dive back into some crafting!
With summer in full swing (even if the weather hasn't quite caught on yet!), it's the perfect time to get creative with some fun summer projects. Crafting in the garden with friends is the ultimate summer activity, don't you think?
Below, I've shared some summer-themed craft ideas - some that I've tried before and loved, and others that are on my crafting bucket list. I hope you find something that sparks your interest!
Bunting
Bunting is such a lovely summer tradition, especially here in the UK!
It really brings a festive vibe to any party or even just as a cute home decor touch.
The best part is, you can totally personalize it to suit your style.
The options for materials are endless - from old newspapers to fabric scraps to felt, there's always something you can use.
If you're new to making bunting, starting with paper is a great idea.
You don't need any fancy tools, just some paper or thin card, scissors, a template, and a pencil.
Once you've cut out your shapes, simply glue or tie them onto some string or ribbon.
Fabric bunting is just as easy to make, even without a sewing machine. Just use some iron-on tape to stick the pieces together and then attach them to the ribbon or string.
Have fun getting creative with your bunting!
Lamps / Lanterns / Lights / Luminarias
Summer lighting is so important, isn't it?
There's nothing quite like relaxing in the garden as the sun sets, surrounded by the soft glow of beautiful lights.
And the best part is, you can easily create your own unique lighting using items you already have at home.
For example, you can transform simple jam jars into stunning lamps. Get creative with paints and decorations - I once hosted a workshop where we painted jars with jewel tones and added gold puffy paint for a Moroccan flair. We even added handles using craft wire or string for a charming touch.
Have you ever heard of luminarias? They're small paper lanterns filled with sand to hold a candle, often seen in Hispanic traditions. You can decorate them in countless ways, from painting to creating intricate patterns with hole punches.
And let's not forget about tin cans! Decorate them with punched patterns or decoupage for a unique look. Just a tip - use a tin opener that removes the lid completely for a smooth edge and no sharp bits.
So, why not get creative and brighten up your summer nights with some DIY lighting? It's a fun and affordable way to add a touch of magic to your outdoor space. Enjoy!
Macrame
Have you ever tried your hand at macrame projects? There are so many fun and cool things you can create! If you're just starting out, small items like summer macrame bracelets or hanging nets for your lamps or plants are a great way to dip your toes in.
Feeling a bit more adventurous? Why not try your hand at decorative macrame hangings - they may be a bit more challenging, but the end result is totally worth it!
Don't worry if you're new to macrame - there are plenty of basic knots that are super easy to learn and work with different types of yarns, cords, or threads. Whether you're working on fine, intricate pieces or chunky, statement decor, there's something for everyone!
When it comes to making bracelets or other jewelry pieces, I recommend using a macrame board and T-pins to keep everything in place. It'll help you keep your work neat and even.
And for larger projects, like the ones shown in the picture above, attaching your knots to a wooden dowel rod or piece of wood will make your life a whole lot easier - no more getting tangled up in your own creations!
So go ahead, grab some supplies and get knotting! You'll be amazed at what you can create with just a few simple techniques. Have fun and happy crafting!
Pyrography
I'm super excited to give pyrography a try!
I love crafting with natural materials like wood, stone, and gemstones.
When looking at pyrography tools online, there's a wide range of prices to consider. Some are more affordable at £20 - £30, but they may not be professional grade. On the other hand, the more professional tools can be quite pricey.
Since I'm new to this craft, I can't recommend which type of tool to go for. It's all about trial and error, right?
For wooden items to decorate, there are plenty of affordable wooden blanks available online. I've got a few packs from The Works that I'm excited to use. They have smooth surfaces, perfect for practicing on. The Works also has a pyrography tool for £10.00, which could be a good option to test out before investing in pricier tools.
I'm thinking of starting with simple designs on smooth surfaces before moving on to more challenging projects. I love the idea of using large wooden slices with bark edges.
Transferring patterns onto the wood seems easy enough using transfer paper or a graphite pencil. You can create your own design or find one online. Some tool packs even come with stencils, which could be helpful. I have some letter stencils that I'm excited to try out!
If I decide on which tools to use, I might write another blog post about it. Would that be something you'd be interested in reading? Let me know!
Tie Dye
Who doesn't love a fun summer tie-dye t-shirt, right? The bright colors just make you feel so happy!
And the best part is, it's super easy to do nowadays with all the fabric paints available. No need for messy buckets of dye - which is a huge relief for someone like me who tends to make a mess! Just paint the colors onto your fabric or use an ink dropper and let the paints work their magic.
I actually made this t-shirt a couple of years ago for a workshop I was hosting. I used elastic bands to create a cool pattern on the front, then dripped the paints on with an ink dropper. The colors blended together beautifully! But hey, tie-dye isn't just for t-shirts. You can try it on other fabrics like shirts or bedding too.
And if you're feeling adventurous, why not give bleach painting a go? It's the same idea as tie-dye, but with bleach instead of paint.
Check out this Ikea cushion cover I bleach dyed - I used fern fronds to create a cool negative space print.
Just remember to take it slow with the bleach - start with a little and add more as needed. And always do a patch test before you dive in.
I'm really happy with how my cushion cover turned out, but I'm already thinking about ways to make it even better. It's a project that I'm excited to keep improving on!
Windchimes / Mobiles
Isn't summer just the best time for windchimes? The gentle breezes and soothing sounds create the perfect summer vibe.
Have you ever thought about making your own windchime or mobile? It's so fun and easy!
Just take a look at the picture - shells make a beautiful and musical addition to any project.
You could use shells from your summer vacations or find a variety online. And hey, why not get creative with beach flotsam or old flip flops? It's a unique idea that will definitely spark some conversations!
There are so many little treasures lying around the house that could be incorporated into your project. For example, kids toys or buttons from your family's collection. The possibilities are endless!
Just go with whatever catches your eye and have fun with it.
So there you go, 6 summer craft ideas for you to play around with.
I've saved many of these ideas, plus some other interesting bits'n'bobs to the Pinterest folder as usual. So please feel free to check them out and have a go!
I would love to see what you've made so please feel free to post here on the blog or via the Instagram & Facebook pages.
Create! Crafting From the Heart CIC - Company Number: 15765146
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