50 easy crafts for kids that are fun, fast to set up, and totally engaging

Easy crafts for kids are the difference between a quiet and engaged activity and one that involves spending £15 and drinking bad coffee (we mean soft play). We found 50 crafts to do that are fun, cheap, and so simple.

As parents, research is always on, it starts with Googling 'best travel strollers' and it just never ends, you're Googling the best places to take kids, things to do with kids, and films to watch with kids. We know you're always on the lookout for the kids, especially at weekends or during the school holidays. And sometimes the weather puts a dampener on our ready-made outdoor plans. This is why we’ve created a handy list of craft ideas that are the perfect indoor activities for kids. And sure to save any long wet weekend.

While there's always a place for a kids movie on Netflix, sometimes we want to get them doing, not watching. Our crafts for kids are easy to do - so it doesn’t matter if you’re a complete craft beginner (like us) or already a creative pro. Plus, crafting can be a great mindfulness activity for kids too. 

Whatever your budget, and whether you've minutes or hours to dedicate to getting creative, we have 50 fantastic craft ideas for you to choose from.

Easy crafts for kids:

1. Homemade play dough

There's something both therapeutic and educational about moulding fresh play dough into shapes, especially for little ones. Young muscles can develop strength, control and fine motor skills, whilst experiencing the feel of different textures with this squidgy craft number. Better than buying some from the shops, our easy play dough recipe is as good (if not better and cheaper) than the shop-bought kind.

Get the method: Our best play dough recipe plus 7 fun things to make

2. A chatterbox or fortune teller

It doesn't get much simpler than this - with our origami chatterbox craft requiring just a few pens and a piece of paper to do. A playground favorite, kids will love decorating this toy and playing it with their friends and family.

Get the method: How to make a chatterbox

3. DIY stickers

What child doesn't love stickers and a good sticker book? This is one of our favorite crafts for kids, allowing your little ones can create their own personalized stickers and allow their imagination to run riot. This might just be the perfect activity for a rainy afternoon.

Get the method: How to make stickers

4. Lava lamp

Lava lamps are a great sensory stimulus for little ones, while showing bigger kids the science behind the cool chemical reactions. Making a lava lamp might seem like a big step forward if you're not a keen crafter, but this DIY tutorial is really easy to follow and requires mostly regular kitchen items to get stuck in.

Get the method: How to make a lava lamp with children

5. Jolly jellyfish

These jolly jellyfish another favorite craft for us. They also make for a great bedroom decoration when hung above a bed, or from a curtain pole. If you don't fancy forking out for googly eyes, the eyes can be drawn on instead. All other equipment like ribbons, tissue or wrapping paper, should be readily available in your house too.

Get the method: How to make a jellyfish

6. Rainbow wand

This rainbow wand is a fun activity, while doubling as a toy or handy dressing-up accessory. We've used glitter card, colorful ribbons, scissors and glue to assemble. Kids can always go wild and add extra customization with beads, gems or anything else that feels fun.

Get the method: How to make a rainbow wand

7. Rainbow decorations

Another hugely popular DIY activity, this time featuring the enduring popularity of rainbows. This is one of our easiest crafts for kids, with only five items of equipment needed. We reckon these rainbow decorations would go down well at any kids party too; just set up a craft table with the ready-cut card and ribbon, and be on hand to show children the ropes.

Get the method: How to make your own rainbow decorations

8. Toilet paper tube crafts

Toilet roll tubes are definitely something every household has. We recommend storing a few, and sitting down to try one of our thirteen toilet paper tube crafts once you have a collection. Our favorite includes these carp fish creations, which can so easily be transformed into a hanging mobile with some string and added creativity.

Get the method: 13 things to make with toilet roll tubes

9. Tie dye t-shirts

Another popular and colorful crafts for kids, this idea will transform an old white tee into an original tie-dye creation? Kids love rainbows and this fun activity will create a one-of-a-kind design that they can proudly show off to their friends.

Get the method: How to tie dye t-shirts

10. Rainbow sun catcher

Another one of our fantastic rainbow decorations is this rainbow sun catcher - a perfect decorative piece for any child's bedroom. We recommend constructing this craft around spring or summer when your child can be dazzled by the light, sending colorful beams around the room.

Get the method: How to make a rainbow sun catcher

11. Pen pots

Transform an old plastic water bottle into something functional to house all those pens and pencils that would otherwise find themselves lost. Children might need a little more adult assistance with cutting the plastic, but decorating their creations will occupy them once the hard part is complete. These homemade pen pots would make great gifts come Mother's Day, Father's Day or a family member's birthday.

Get the method: How to make pen pots from plastic bottles

12. Paper hats

Crafting doesn't get any easier than these quirky paper hats, which can be made using anything from old newspapers to left-over wrapping paper. They're great for incorporating into games and the origami process develops key hand-eye coordination, and concentration skills.

Get the method: How to make a paper hat

13. Party piñata

This fish piñata is a great craft to do with your child and will go down a storm at any upcoming birthday parties. Just keep an eye on your kid and any sweets that go 'missing' during the making process...

Get the method: How to make a pinata

14. Rainbow art

Why not use up any surplus rainbow ribbons from the wand and heart craft, and create this fun colorful craft too. These rainbow sun and cloud paper plate crafts uses similar materials, plus paint and a paper plate. We recommended stringing these up in the window of your home to send a positive message to passersby.

Get the method: How to turn a paper plate into a rainbow

15. Cardboard kitchen

Little ones love imitating their parents by playing at cooking in the kitchen. So why not recreate a colorful play kitchen from a couple of old shoe boxes? You can finish it off with some cheap kids play pots and pans from Amazon or they can always borrow ones already found in your kitchen cupboards.

Get the method: How to make a toy box kitchen

16. DIY dreamcatchers

Children love getting creative with beads and feathers. These dreamcatchers could also help relieve any anxiety youngsters hold over having bad dreams or nightmares too. Help them construct their own with some paper plates, string and a little imagination.

Get the method: How to make dreamcatchers

17. Vegetable printing

Vegetable printing is sure to be something any crafty kid will love. An added benefit being it's a great way to use up any uneatable fruit and vegetables from the fridge. Simply get your template, paint and material ready, then you're good to go! We love this heart-shaped potato print bunting in particular.

Get the method: How to do vegetable printing

18. Homemade hair scrunchies

This is one craft older children will especially love, as they can customize their own scrunchies with a bright array of patterns and colours. Using materials of their choice and this handy tutorial, you can learn how to make your own scrunchy. Unique and useful - this is one of our favorite crafts for kids.

Get the method: How to make hair scrunchies

19. Funny face frames

What is one of the best things about heading to the pier at any British seaside resort? The wacky photo stands of course! Capture that excitement at home with this fun craft and have children invent with their own quirky characters.

Get the method: How to make funny-face frames

20. Pebble people

Who doesn't have old pebbles from the beach or stones from the garden lying around? Instead of letting them get under your feet, get your kids to make them into fun characters - or even portraits of your family. Along with the pebbles, all you need is a couple of pots of paint and a bit of inspiration.

Get the method: How to make pebble people

21. Paper mache

Spend the weekend creating an amazing paper mache creation - one of our super simple crafts for kids. There's plenty of cutting and sticking to do with this one, which helps develop key fine motor skills in the process. As with all crafts with scissors - adult supervision is recommended.

Get the method: How to paper mache

22. Rainbow streamers

With this simple tutorial, create rainbow streamers by transforming a toilet roll tube into a fun toy that kids of all ages will love. Once finished, hang them outside to watch the streamers really come alive.

Get the method: How to make rainbow streamers

23. DIY dinosaur

Kids with a passion for the prehistoric period can create their own dinosaur kingdom from readily available household objects like toilet rolls and paper plates. Copy our sauropod design to start with, then branch out to fan favorites like the T-rex or a triceratops.

Get the method: How to make a paper dinosaur

24. Puppet theatre

This kids craft is a little more complex and will require specific items like velcro (which mum or dad will have to iron). But don't let that put you off; once constructed this theatre will keep kiddies busy for hours, as they conjure up vivid stories and characters to share via the stage.

Get the method: How to make a puppet theatre

25. Elephant's feet

To make these nifty elephant's feet you'll need some large tin cans and plenty of paint. If you've just painted a room recently, even better! Use the old paint cans to create this excellent crafting project and let your little ones bring their dreams of stomping across the savanna to life.

Get the method here: How to make elephant's feet with tin cans

26. Tin can kites

Another of our tin based crafts for kids, these tin can kites will brighten up any dull day. Anyone with a cupboard full of tinned goods is sure to have a few spare cans lying around - get your child to put them to good use with splatterings of paint and lots of ribbon.

Get the method: How to make neon kites by recycling old tin cans

27. Easter pom-pom animals

Originally one of our more seasonal crafts for kids, these Easter pom-pom animals can make an excellent decoration at any time of the year - stretch your creativity to transfer this craft to any celebration. Be sure to hang the finished item around the house ready for whichever festivity you've made them for - they could even be planted around the house to make a fun treasure hunt.

Get the method: How to make adorable Easter pom pom animals

28. Bug hotel

This is the perfect craft for any green fingered child fascinated by creatures. Source any leftover building materials like bricks, felt or even an old tire, then assemble your mini-beast motel with our easy-to-follow tutorial. Kids will love checking in on guests regularly, and learning all the fun facts about them.

Get the method: How to make a bug hotel

29. Fans

These paper fans make gorgeous decorations for a kid's play room or temporary den. Made from patterned paper and a lollipop stick, they're also one of the cheapest crafts for kids in our round-up.

Get the method: How to make pretty paper fans

30. Calming glitter jars

These glitter jars are thoroughly therapeutic and can be created in five speedy steps using a clean jam jar, some glitter and water. Kids (and adults) can enjoy a quiet moment watching the glitter fall, which in turn will enable them to re-centre their energy, focus and any pent-up stress.

Get the method: How to make glitter jars

31. Sunshine

If you've hosted a birthday party recently, chances are you'll have a few paper plates going spare. If so, this sunshine craft is the perfect activity to re-upholster and re-cycle them. Cheap to do, you'll just need some yellow paint and coloured card to construct.

Get the method: How to make a paper-plate sun

32. Egg-box bus

Never under-estimate a good old-fashioned egg-box craft creation. We've come up with 10 different things you can create with them, including this bright egg-box bus that'll keep your child busy for an afternoon or two.

Get the method: 10 things to make with egg boxes

33. Paper boat

Much like the paper hats, these paper boats are a really fun and inventive way to use up old newspaper or wrapping paper. Create unique designs with as many different colors and patterns as you like, then set sail.

Get the method: How to make a paper boat

34. A paper gun (that shoots)

Any budding cowboy or cowgirl of the house needs a pistol to re-enact their Wild West adventures. Follow our easy tutorial to create a gun from paper that actually shoots out counters.

Get the method: How to make a paper gun that shoots

35. Wanda the Witch

With some basic craft materials and a wooden spoon, your child can get into the Halloween spirit at any time of year, with this wonderful wicked witch creation. This craft doubles up as a great decoration when the spooky day comes around - try slotting the end of the spoon into some soil on your front lawn to give the neighbors a real fright.

Get the method: How to make Wanda the witch

36. A cloud pinboard

Children will be delighted to adorn a wall with this fun cloud-shaped pinboard that they’ve created themselves. Filling it with family photos, their own pictures, or reminders of important dates, will add to the fun. With only a small amount of equipment needed, get messy and transform a boring pinboard into something wonderful. 

Get the method: How to make a cloud pinboard

37. A teacup bird feeder

We have found the perfect way to introduce children to upcycling, with this teacup bird feeder that repurposes chipped or broken crockery. Instead of sending old teacups and saucers to the dustbin, add personality to your garden and help out any feathered visitors with this decorative bird feeder - just be sure to use glue suitable for withstanding all weather!

Get the method: How to make a teacup bird feeder

38. Marquee letters

These are bang on trend, but can be expensive to buy. Save yourself some money and unleash creativity, with DIY marquee letters that are certain to get visitors talking. Taking personalization to the max, anything can be created from the letters you make; names, funny or inspirational quotes, the world is your oyster.

Get the method: How to make marquee letters

39. Kids thank you cards

Nothing says “thank you” quite like a personal card from the grateful recipient. Get children to offer their thanks for Christmas or birthday gifts, with these homemade cards that offer an individual touch. Not only that, parents can help out with this fun activity, keeping the whole family entertained in the process. 

Get the method: Homemade kids thank you cards

40. Mini bow and arrow

Youngsters can keep their precious possessions protected from in-coming foe, with this bow and arrow craft! An alternative to buying a toy bow and arrow set, this activity is both environmentally friendly and offers hours of fun for a very low cost. Be sure to have Washi tape to hand for this project, which is also perfect for many other craft ideas we have for you. 

Get the method: How to make a mini bow and arrow

41. Terrazzo candle holder

Another perfect upcycling project, our terrazzo candle holder tutorial will show you how to update an old candle holder with a jazzy terrazzo effect. Modeling-clay and a little imagination are all you need for crafting a traditional terrazzo pattern, plus the environment will thank you for upcycling old candle holders rather than sending them to landfill.

Get the method: How to make a terrazzo candle holder

42. A crayon letter picture

Rainy days spent indoors are now sorted, with this project that results in the perfect picture for adorning the walls. Children can select their favorite colors and shades (or parents can help them pick out the ones that match existing decor!) to create a letter picture to be admired by all. Choosing the shape of the letter before printing the template, offers plenty of personalization opportunities for young crafters. You’ll need a glue gun for this one, so be aware of hot glue, and little fingers accidentally getting stuck together…!

Get the method: Make your own crayon letter picture craft

43. A 3D cactus

A simple paper craft, children will be delighted to create their very own 3D paper cacti. If it’s a Western-themed bedroom you’re after, or an alternative to real plants for your shelves, this project has you covered. Grab some tissue paper, card and glue, and a pot plant if this is how you choose to display them. The best thing is they won’t need watering or any attention, unlike traditional house plants!

Get the method: Fun 3D cactus craft

44. String art

This is one for slightly older children, who can give an old cork memo board a new lease of life by transforming it into a colorful string art creation. Choose a paint to make your old memo board as good as new, then let loose with weaving together colorful string into a beautiful heart-shaped pattern. While increasing patience skills and concentration, this craft will also make the perfect home decoration or gift.

Get the method: How to make string art

45. Animal plant holders

Children will love putting letting their imaginations run wild with these animal plant holders, while creating a beautiful gift in the process. Scoop up any old toy animal no longer in use, and transform them into an original way to showcase plants. Aimed at 3-5 year olds, adults will need to help with the initial cutting and the small people can do the rest. They can be themed for a room in your own room, or gifted to family and friends for something to treasure. 

Get the method: Animal plant holders

46. Fifteen amazing loom band ideas

The loom band trend has swept schools everywhere, and here we have not just one, but 15 incredible ideas for your loom band enthusiast. From Winnie the Pooh and Minions, to unicorns and personalized bracelets, there will be a tutorial for everyone. Even better, everything you need can be found online, with loom band packs starting from under £1, making this a cost-effective activity.

Get the method: 15 amazing loom band ideas

47. Bath bombs

Bath time just got even relaxing for adults, with these homemade bath bombs their children can make. Choose your own fragrances and let the kids get to work; but be aware that essential oils can cause skin irritation, and following our instructions and carrying out your own research is vital before stepping into that aromatic bath water…

Get the method: How to make bath bombs

48. Bits & bobs canvas

Not sure what a bits & bobs canvas is? It’s something you need in your life, and the children will love putting it together! Aimed at those aged 4 and over, this project will round up and find a use for the random plastic items every household accrues. Don’t throw out broken toys, odd buttons and other unwanted items, but use our method and your imagination to craft a fantastic item. 

Get the method: How to make your own bits & bobs canvas

49. Father's Day gifts

Spoil dad on the day that’s all about him, with a homemade gift. We have plenty of ideas here for children at all ages and stages, to create the perfect gift for their parent. It could be a tool-shaped bookmark, or themed storage for his office supplies - there will be something here sure to delight daddy!

Get the method:  Homemade Father's Day gifts

50. Colorful spinning tops

Picture beads are given a new and fun purpose, with this inventive project for crafty kids aged 7-9. Grab a handful of the beads and arrange on a pegboard, and be wowed when the finished product is a spinning top! This simple idea not only uses up old picture beads, but creates a new toy in the process - you can thank us for the extra hours of fun your small people will have when they’ve finished. 

Get the method: How to make colorful spinning tops from picture beads

What can kids make that is easy?

A mess. We joke, we joke. The answer to this is a bit like 'how long is a piece of string'. What's easy for one kid might be a challenge to another. You know your kid better than anyone. The safest bet to encourage kids with crafts, easy or not, is to focus on the doing no the end result. When they show you a painting or a drawing, talk about how focussed they were, and how hard it looked like they were trying, instead of 'amazing drawing'.

What crafts are good for kids who don't like crafts?

Messy engaging ones, usually. We get it, there's a lot of pressure on parents to get it right and crafting is one of them, a wholesome activity that many a parent think parenting 101. But sometimes, no matter how hard you try your kid just isn't interested in crafting. 

• Dot art - simple take a pack of colourful dotted stickers and challenge them to spell out their name out in dots, or 'fastest draw' see who can get 50 stickers on the paper first.
• Let rip - Collaging, but not calling it collaging could work. Let them rip and cut up papers, magazines, leaflets anything they can find. Then sit together and imagine something, a message you want the non-collage to convey, then get sticking. 
• Paint with marbles - all you need is a baking tray, A4 card, marbles and paint. Dip each marble in paint and roll around the baking tray. The trail of paint will create a masterpiece.  

If this list has inspired you and there's a collection of cardboard boxes accumulating in your house, we have a list of 23 cardboard box crafts for kids. Crafting isn't just for the little ones - these easy craft projects for beginners can be done when the children are sleeping, for some relaxing adult downtime.