Showing posts sorted by date for query kid craft. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by date for query kid craft. Sort by relevance Show all posts

What Home Ideas Are Kid-Proof, Budget-Friendly, and Still Pinterest-Worthy?

 You love crisp walls and tidy shelves. Your kids love markers and momentum. Sticky fingers land on every surface, and toy cars zap straight toward table legs. Suddenly, that designer coffee table feels like a liability, and fresh paint shows fingerprints in days.

Sound familiar? You are not alone. Parents everywhere want a stylish home but refuse to spend fortunes on décor that can’t handle daily chaos. The good news: Durable and beautiful can live in the same room. 

You only need the right materials and a few smart swaps. The six ideas below help you craft a space that photographs well, handles rough play, and respects your budget.

1. Washable Paints That Actually Work

Walls take the first hit when kids roam free. Crayons glide, juice splashes, and mystery smudges appear overnight. Ordinary matte paint flakes under repeated scrubbing, leaving dull patches. You can dodge that headache with formulas designed for high traffic.

Look for satin or semi-gloss finishes with “scrubbable” on the label. These coatings seal pigment beneath a tight film, so stains lift with mild soap and water. They also bounce light, which softens small dents and brightens dark hallways.

Choose soft neutrals—warm grays, creamy whites, gentle taupe. Light tones still thrill Instagram, yet they mask minor marks better than stark white. If you crave color, reserve bold shades for an accent wall or a half wall protected by wainscoting. That way, you keep depth but reduce risk.

2. Peel-and-Stick Wall Panels That Cover and Wow

Sometimes walls need more than paint. Maybe an older child’s bed scratched the plaster, or a remote-control helicopter left dents. Traditional repairs mean sanders, putty, and primer. Peel-and-stick panels skip the mess and turn damage into design.

Faux brick, shiplap, and geometric wood tiles arrive in lightweight sheets with adhesive backs. You trim with a utility knife, press, and you’re done. They hide flaws, absorb bumps, and create texture that looks handcrafted. Even renters use them because removal seldom harms drywall.

Brands vary, yet many parents like panels that mimic weathered brick. For example, Brick My Walls lists thin veneers that you apply without mortar or nails—ideal when you need fast change without the use of power tools. The key is to measure twice, line seams carefully, and smooth air bubbles with a plastic card. You gain an accent wall that photographs like a magazine spread, but you skip plaster dust and contractor fees.

3. Hidden Storage That Keeps Chaos Out of Sight

Toys breed. One plush dinosaur invites ten friends, and puzzle boxes shed pieces under couches. Visible clutter stresses parents and distracts kids. Hidden storage lets you tidy in seconds.

Start with multifunctional furniture:

  • Ottomans that open to hold blocks.

  • Benches with lift-up seats beside the entryway for shoes and sports gear.

  • Beds with drawers underneath for extra linens and off-season clothes.

Then layer in baskets with lids. Cotton rope or woven seagrass feels cozy yet hides the neon plastic within. Slide baskets on low shelves, so small hands can reach toys and return them later.

Pick finishes that match your décor—charcoal gray bins for modern rooms, natural rattan for boho vibes. When storage blends with style, your living room avoids the “daycare” look even when the bins overflow.

4. Soft-Edge Furniture That Doesn’t Sacrifice Style

Kids move fast and fall faster. Sharp corners raise bruise counts and parental anxiety. You can lower both by choosing pieces with gentle silhouettes.

Swap glass coffee tables for round wooden ones. Consider a plush ottoman that doubles as extra seating. Look for sofas with smooth arms and tapered legs rather than metal edges.

Layered rugs help, too. Place a thick cotton flat-weave under a softer shag. The first anchors the space; the second cushions stumbles. Mixing patterns—say, a subtle stripe under a neutral Moroccan knot—adds depth and hides crumbs between vacuum runs.

Concerned about sacrificing grown-up style? Curved lines feel high-end when paired with slim legs and quality upholstery. Plus, organic shapes rank high on design boards right now. Safety and style align nicely here.

5. Wipeable Fabrics and Furniture Covers

Spilled milk should not cause panic. Performance fabrics stop stains before they settle. Technology in modern textiles adds coatings that repel moisture and resist oil.

When shopping, tap the tag. Words like Crypton, Nanotex, or stain-resistant polyester signal easy care. If slipcovers catch your eye, choose machine-washable cotton-blend twill. Remove, wash cold, line dry, and slip back on—done.

Prints and woven textures hide wear better than solids. A tweed section sofa masks crumbs until you vacuum. Patterned throw pillows draw sightlines away from inevitable smudges on cushions.

Protect dining chairs, too. Vinyl or leather wipes clean, but if you prefer fabric, add waterproof seat pads. They stay invisible under place mats yet spare you from deep scrubbing tomato sauce.

Conclusion

Design and parenthood rarely follow the same rules, yet they do not have to clash. Focus on materials that endure, shapes that soften impacts, and systems that hide clutter fast. Your home remains Pinterest-worthy, your budget stays healthy, and your kids stay safe. That balance might just be the greatest DIY victory of all.


Dive into Fun with a Kid-Made Fish Tank!

 Calling all creative captains! Are you ready to set sail for an ocean of imagination? Today, we're building a cute little fish tank, and the best part is, there are no limits to what your little ones can create!

This exciting craft is perfect for a rainy day or a dose of undersea whimsy. It's easy to customize and allows kids to explore their artistic talents while learning about the fascinating world of fish.



This project is perfect for a rainy day. It uses simple supplies and is so much fun to add your own touches. Kids will love making their own little friend, and taking it everywhere!

Supplies:

Small jar with lid (I used the button jars from Dollar Tree)

Several buttons

A 6” section of string

Glue

Tape

Scissors

Googly eyes

Paint samples





Directions:

Fold a paint sample in half

Cut the paint sample in the shape of a fish so that you have 2 fish.




Place glue on the backs of the fish.

Place the string so that it is in the center of the fish when they are placed on top of each other.

Glue on the eyes.




Tape the string to the inside of the lid of the jar.

Place a few buttons inside the jar.





Place the lid on the jar and admire your adorable swimming fish.



Aren't these so cute? You can make them in a variety of colors, and if you have a container that is large enough you can add multiple fish! Just vary the length of your string so they aren't hanging at the same level.


Harper had a ton of fun with this project and I know your kids will too. We took this little guy along on quite a few adventures. He traveled quite well!


Crafting with kids isn't just about making cool stuff (though that's definitely a perk!). It's a fantas
tic opportunity to bond, get creative, and explore the world through a hands-on lens. But with busy schedules and overflowing craft supply bins, getting started can feel overwhelming.

Here are some tips for making the most of craft time.

  • Get down to their level: Sit on the floor with your child and participate in the activity. Show them your own excitement and creativity!
  • Focus on the process, not the product: The joy of crafting comes from creating together, not achieving perfection.
  • Let them take the lead: Encourage their creativity and allow them to make choices. Their unique ideas are what makes their crafts special!


Setting the Stage for Success:

  • Prepare your workspace: Cover the table with newspaper or a tablecloth for easy cleanup. Have all materials within reach to avoid frustration.
  • Embrace the mess: Crafting can get messy, and that's perfectly okay! Lay down a tarp outdoors for messy activities or use a large plastic bin for easy containment.
  • Safety first: Be mindful of your child's age and choose age-appropriate materials. Adult supervision is always recommended for younger children, especially with scissors or glue.


Find more favorite craft ideas here:

Fantastic Flower Crafts for Spring


Bloom Where You're Planted: Unleash Your Creativity with Flower Crafts!

Flowers bring color, joy, and a touch of nature's beauty into our lives. But their magic extends far beyond the vase! Today, we're celebrating the art of flower crafts, a vibrant world where creativity blossoms alongside blooming details.

Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just starting your artistic journey, flower crafts offer something for everyone. From simple projects perfect for little hands to intricate designs that challenge experienced makers, the possibilities are endless.



We love crafting flowers. Here are a few of my favorite projects from over the years.

3d Tulips

Ten Cute Tulip Projects

Play Doh Cactus

Sock Roses


Here are just a few reasons to embrace the world of flower crafts:

  • Unleash your inner artist: Flower crafts are a beautiful canvas for expressing your creativity. Experiment with different colors, textures, and materials to bring your unique vision to life.
  • Embrace mindfulness: Crafting can be a wonderful way to unwind and de-stress. The repetitive motions and focus required in many flower crafts can be a form of meditation, allowing you to find peace and tranquility in the creative process.
  • Spread the joy of handmade: Handmade gifts hold a special place in our hearts. Whether you're crafting a vibrant bouquet for a loved one or decorating your home with blooming creations, flower crafts are a thoughtful and heartfelt way to share your creativity with others.
  • Upcycle and repurpose: Give new life to everyday objects! From using leftover fabric scraps to crafting with recycled materials like cardboard tubes, flower crafts encourage resourcefulness and sustainability practices.
  • Bond with loved ones: Crafting is a wonderful activity to share with friends and family. Get together for a crafting session, teach younger generations the joys of handmade creations, and create lasting memories together.

So, gather your supplies, let your imagination bloom, and dive into the world of flower crafts! With a little creativity and these timeless projects, you can bring a touch of floral flair to your life and the lives of those around you.

Ready to get started? Explore these links, from some of my favorite bloggers for a vast array of flower craft tutorials, or simply grab your favorite crafting materials and let your creativity bloom!



 Paper Roses by Crafting Jeannie

Flower Garden Sensory Bin by Sweet Silly Sara

Tissue Paper and Twig Flowers by Barley and Birch

Paper Plate Sunflowers by The Printables Fairy




Felt Roses by Two Kids and a Coupon

Button Flower Pins by Artsy Fartsy Mama

Fingerprint Flower Pots by Crafts by Amanda

Pressed Wildflower Bookmarks by An Off Grid Life

Water Bottle Flowers by Kid Friendly Things to Do

Paper and Seed Sunflowers by Easy Crafts for Kids




3d Pop Up Flower Cards by Mommy Made That

Paper Sunflowers by The Inspiration Edit 

Handprint Flowers by Little Ladoo

Flower Handprint Card by Simple Everyday Mom 

Pressed Flower Suncatchers by In the Playroom

Cupcake Liner Flowers by A Little Pinch of Perfect

Tissue Paper Flowers by Mom Wife Busy Life 

Egg Carton Flowers by The Boondocks

Mini Flower Wreath by Sustain My Craft Habit


Lego Stamped Pumpkin Art

 Harper and I love to paint with, well, anything but a paint brush! Last week she came home from school and asked me if I wanted to make something with paint, and how could I resist the invitation? This lego pumpkin idea was just the thing. It pairs cute and creepy together just right.



This is such an easy activity, and it is fun for kids of all ages! Even Rolf, who is 12 now, was curious about this and told us it was a "cool idea" before dashing back to his busy preteen activities. 




Supplies:
Orange Paint
Black Paint
Green Paint
Legos
Paper Plate
Paper


Directions:

Pour a small amount of orange, black and green paint onto a paper plate.

Offer your child legos in assorted sizes and paper.

Encourage your child to dip a lego into the orange paint and make the shape of a pumpkin.


Now, fill that shape in with more lego stamps.




When you have filled in the shape of the pumpkin, dip a lego into the black paint and make a face.







Next, give your pumpkin a stem with the green paint.
Allow to dry and display.


These were a really fun, kid led Halloween craft. I know your kids will love making pumpkin art this way.


You can find all of my Halloween crafts here

Painting projects here:

Reader favorites include:

Pumpkin Window Clings

Ghost Play Dough Ornaments

Prickly Play Doh Cactus

Are you looking for a fun project for older kids that something you probably already have at home? This prickly play doh cactus craft is awesome for tweens and teens and maybe even Mom or Dad too. Anyone who loves cacti will appreciate this easy and fun way to add a little cactus flair to your space.


I have always been a big fan of play doh. When I was a kid myself, I begged for it all the time. When I was a tween, I did every school project possible with play doh. As a twenty something, I made my much cooler friends roll their eyes at my play doh collection. Now I am a mom, and guess what? I STILL LOVE PLAY DOH! 

This project came about during an afternoon of missing the kids while they were at school. I started playing with green doh and here we are, making a cool, prickly play doh cactus.

Disclaimer. This is NOT a kid project. Do not do this with your toddlers, preschoolers, infants, or kindergartners. They will get hurt. 

Supplies:
A small terracotta pot
Green play doh
Toothpicks
A few rocks


Directions:
Fill half of your pot with rocks. 


 Shape your green play doh into a long lump.


Attach a few lumps to the sides, like the arms of a cactus.


Now, take about ten toothpicks and break them in half.



Start sticking the toothpicks into the play doh, like the little spikes of a cactus, insert them broken side into the doh.


As you can see, I thought a little purple flower was a nice touch. Feel free to vary this as you like.


Display on your desk, or on a shelf out of reach of little hands. Over time this will dry out. You can toss it, or keep it as is when that happens. It is a matter of preference.


If you liked this project check out all of my play doh projects.
Reader favorites include:

I would be so grateful if you shared this post on social media, or pin it to your crafts for adults board.

15+ Fin-tastic Shark Crafts for Adults




Take a bite out of the lost pencil situation and make this Shark Pencil Pouch by The Patchwork Posse. These are so cute that everyone will want one!



Add a lot of personality to your clothespin bag with this Shark Clothes Pin Bag by the Polka Dot Chair. It is sure to make laundry chores feel more like a day at the beach!


Make your own super funky shark jewelry with this tutorial from Morena's Corner. This is an awesome idea for teens and adults!



Shark Mittens are an adorable way to keep the cold from biting little hands! They also double as an awesome tool for puppet play. Check the tutorial out from A Night Owl Blog.



Surfs and sips up with these etched shark wine glasses by Doodle Craft. These are perfect for making your glassware unique!





Patchwork Shark Pillow Cases by Today's Creative Life are perfect for adding a one of a kind touch to your home.



Make a DIY Shark Bag for a special kid and they will be fin flipping happy! Get the tutorial at the Small and Friendly site.



Let a hammerhead guard the fridge with this DIY shark magnet project by Kids Activities Blog.



Add a bite of fun to your next pool party with these cute pool noodle sharks by Views From a Step Stool.



Beaded Shark Necklaces are a great way to DIY your own accessories! Get the instructions from Buggy and Buddy.



Don't lose your place in your book. These shark bookmarks from Red Ted Art are a colorful way to leave a shark in charge of your reading materials.



Make a DIY Shark Tooth Necklace with this tutorial by Happy Go Lucky.



Make your own wrap around shark shirt with this free file from Where the Smiles Have Been.



Add a touch of eerily elegant to your wardrobe with this gold foil shark shirt by Doodle Craft.



Make a flip flop wreath to warn visitors of Shark Infested Waters with this tutorial from Dollar STore Crafts