Summer is the perfect time to unwind, get creative, and make something beautiful. Whether you’re looking for relaxing solo projects, fun group crafts for weekend get-togethers, or thoughtful handmade gifts, summer crafts are a joyful way to spend your time. This curated list of 20 chic and simple summer crafts is tailored specifically for adults who want low-stress projects with big visual payoffs. These ideas blend style with ease, and many include Amazon product recommendations to help you get started fast. From boho-inspired home décor to functional art, each project is designed to be both rewarding and perfect for gifting. Let’s dive into these refreshing craft ideas that will spark your creativity and brighten your summer days.
1. Seashell Candle Holders
source @gika.eg
Bring the beach into your home with DIY seashell candle holders. This craft blends coastal charm with romantic ambiance, using real or faux shells to cradle tealights or votives. Simply hot glue your chosen shells around a glass container or repurpose larger shells as standalone holders. These are perfect as gifts for beach lovers or summer dinner party hosts. Pick up a hot glue gun and a shell variety pack on Amazon for a fast and easy start. Their natural beauty gives them a boutique look without the boutique price tag.
2. Boho Yarn Wall Hanging
source @macramessage
Yarn wall hangings are an easy way to elevate any room with bohemian flair. Using a wooden dowel and yarn in various summer shades—think coral, turquoise, or mustard—you can create a stunning piece of textile art. Customize the pattern with braids, knots, or tassels to match your style. Lightweight and stylish, they also make wonderful housewarming or birthday gifts. You can find budget-friendly yarn kits with everything you need on Amazon. This is a meditative project that looks like a masterpiece when finished.
3. DIY Macramé Plant Hangers
source @handcraftedbeautyca
Nothing says summer like lush greenery hanging by your window or patio. A macramé plant hanger is an elegant, functional craft that’s easier to make than it looks. With just cotton rope, a wooden ring, and basic knotting techniques, you can create a modern-boho plant holder in under an hour. These are excellent handmade gifts for plant parents or anyone decorating a small space. Beginner macramé kits are widely available on Amazon, often including instructional guides. Crafting one is not only satisfying but also a chic decor upgrade.
4. Hand-Painted Terra Cotta Pots
source @ranahakiim
Give your plant babies a stylish new home with hand-painted terra cotta pots. Use acrylic paints and masking tape to create geometric or floral patterns that reflect your personality. These pots are perfect for herbs, succulents, or summer flowers and make lovely personalized gifts. For extra flair, seal them with a waterproof varnish to use outdoors. Grab a set of mini pots and outdoor-safe paint on Amazon to get started. It’s a colorful way to combine art and gardening.
5. Summer Scented DIY Soy Candles
source @mayaartandcraft
Scent can transport you to a sunny beach or blooming garden instantly. Making your own soy candles allows you to blend essential oils like coconut, lemongrass, or lavender into a relaxing summer vibe. Pouring wax into cute jars or tins adds a personal touch, especially if you’re gifting them. Soy candle-making kits with fragrance oils, wicks, and tins are easy to find on Amazon. You’ll love how this simple craft transforms your space with seasonal aroma and style.
6. Beach-Inspired Resin Coasters
source @tulsi_resinstore
Resin coasters with embedded sand, shells, or glitter are both practical and visually stunning. They capture summer’s essence in a functional art piece that protects your furniture while serving coastal style. While working with resin requires a bit of patience, starter kits on Amazon make it surprisingly accessible. These make fabulous gifts for summer birthdays or hostess favors. Each coaster turns out unique, so you’ll never get bored making them.
7. Painted Rock Garden Markers
source @jenevererocks
Upgrade your garden game with painted rock garden markers. Use weatherproof paint pens to label herbs, veggies, or flowers on smooth stones. Not only do these markers look whimsical, but they’re also a charming gift for gardeners and hobbyists. You can order a set of paint pens and river rocks right from Amazon. This outdoor craft brings both practicality and personality to your green spaces.
8. Tie-Dye Picnic Blanket
source @islandy.lk
Nothing says summer nostalgia like tie-dye—but go beyond t-shirts with a DIY tie-dye picnic blanket. Use a large cotton throw or canvas sheet and create spiral or ombré patterns in bright or pastel hues. It’s perfect for beach days, festivals, or backyard lounging, and you can customize the colors to match your summer aesthetic. Tie-dye kits with squeeze bottles and gloves are easily accessible on Amazon. The result is a soft, functional piece that screams sunshine and good vibes.
9. Shell and Bead Anklets
source @webmalll.lk
Jewelry making gets a tropical twist with DIY shell and bead anklets. Using hemp cord or elastic string, combine cowrie shells, seed beads, and small charms for a beachy accessory you can wear all season. These dainty anklets make adorable friendship gifts or travel keepsakes. Starter kits on Amazon include all the materials and instructions needed for beginners. This is a quick, satisfying project that’s fun to make in batches.
10. Watercolor Summer Postcards
source @that.crazy.doodler
Put your artistic side to work with handmade watercolor postcards. Use watercolor paper and vibrant paints to create floral, coastal, or sunset designs, then write a heartfelt message on the back. These are ideal for sending vacation greetings or including in gift bags. Watercolor starter sets, including brushes and paper, are available in compact kits on Amazon. It’s a beautiful way to connect with others while sharpening your painting skills.
11. Citrus Slice Felt Coasters
source @xy_craftstudio
Felt coasters shaped like orange, lemon, or lime slices are playful and practical. Use colorful felt, fabric glue, and a circular template to assemble each fruity layer. These are great conversation starters at summer brunches and make cheerful handmade gifts. Pre-cut felt sheets and templates are easy to find online, making the process seamless. Plus, no sewing is required—just creativity and scissors.
12. DIY Bath Bombs with Floral Scents
source @cocoabathco
Cool off with fizzy bath bombs infused with lavender, rose, or eucalyptus. Crafting your own lets you control the scent and ingredients, avoiding harsh chemicals. Mix baking soda, citric acid, and essential oils in silicone molds for a spa-worthy result. These are ideal for self-care kits or bridal shower favors. Complete kits, including molds and oils, are available on Amazon. You’ll love how luxurious and giftable they feel.
13. Stamped Tea Towels
source @domleistore
Create custom stamped tea towels with summer motifs like pineapples, palm leaves, or lemons. Use foam stamps and fabric paint to decorate plain white towels in vibrant prints. These are perfect for summer host gifts, kitchen makeovers, or market stall crafts. Cotton towels and stamp sets can be ordered together as a bundle from Amazon. It’s a mess-free and charming project with practical appeal.
14. Floral Pressed Bookmark
source @thedandelionfoxart
Celebrate summer blooms with pressed flower bookmarks. Collect small flowers or ferns, press them in a book for a week, then seal them between laminating sheets or in resin. These make lovely keepsakes for readers or nature lovers. Flower pressing kits and laminating tools are simple to find online. Every bookmark tells a story and preserves a moment of summer beauty.
15. Rope-Wrapped Vases
source @plantluxe.bn
Transform old jars or glass bottles into coastal-style vases with a bit of jute rope and hot glue. Wrap the rope tightly around the base or neck for a nautical flair, and fill them with fresh or dried summer flowers. These vases are gorgeous as centerpieces or gifts for housewarmings. Jute rope and glue gun bundles are easy to find on Amazon and take only minutes to assemble. It’s upcycling with sophistication.
16. DIY Ice Dye Totes
source @asensiblehabit
Ice dyeing creates dreamy, watercolor-like effects on fabric. Try this on canvas totes using dye powder, ice cubes, and a rack to elevate your project. The melting ice creates random, artistic patterns that are always one-of-a-kind. These tote bags are perfect for summer errands or gift bags. Ice dye kits and blank totes are available in eco-friendly sets online. It’s one of the trendiest crafts that looks straight out of a boutique.
17. Lavender Sachets
source @lavender_on_the_bryn
Keep your drawers and closets smelling fresh with handmade lavender sachets. Sew or glue small fabric pouches and fill them with dried lavender buds and rice. These are classic gifts for moms, teachers, or yourself. Choose pretty fabrics and ribbon ties for a polished finish. Amazon offers dried lavender in bulk, along with pre-cut fabric squares. This calming, fragrant craft is simple yet elegant.
18. Beaded Wind Chimes
source @flagshipmailroom
Add a musical touch to your porch or balcony with DIY beaded wind chimes. Use driftwood or metal hoops as the base and string together beads, bells, and shells to create your desired melody. The soft tinkling sound adds a relaxing atmosphere to any outdoor space. Kits with colorful beads and cords are widely available online. Wind chimes also make thoughtful, personalized housewarming gifts.
19. Fabric-Covered Notebooks
source @mayastudionz
Give a plain notebook a stylish makeover with your favorite summer-print fabric. Use fabric glue to attach the fabric to the cover, then trim and fold for a clean edge. These are great for journaling, to-do lists, or travel logs—and even better as thoughtful handmade gifts. A set of blank journals and fabric glue is all you need to begin. Personalize with ribbon or monograms for an elevated look.
20. Painted Wooden Spoons
source @veronicatorresmiller
Turn everyday kitchen utensils into art with painted wooden spoons. Use non-toxic acrylic paint to add patterns like stripes, florals, or polka dots, then seal with food-safe sealant. These are adorable additions to gift baskets or summer cookouts. Blank spoon sets and food-safe sealants can be found in kitchen craft bundles online. They’re easy, quick, and guaranteed to spark joy every time they’re used.
Conclusion
Crafting during the summer offers more than just a creative outlet—it’s a way to slow down, connect, and make memories. Whether you’re creating a beachy home accent, a handmade gift for someone special, or a personal treat, these 20 summer crafts are designed to inspire and delight. With minimal supplies and lots of heart, you can turn simple materials into chic treasures. From tie-dye to macramé, every project invites you to enjoy the season with creativity and intention. Don’t wait for a reason to craft—these ideas are your invitation to make this summer your most creative one yet.
