Looking for the perfect way to keep kids engaged, creative, and off screens this summer? A craft camp is a fantastic way to spark imagination, build confidence, and let kids explore hands-on projects they’ll love. Whether you’re planning a full camp experience or just a fun week of themed activities at home or church, this list of 18 easy and creative crafts is designed to be low-prep, budget-friendly, and big on fun.
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How to Host a Craft Camp
Hosting a craft camp doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it just takes a little planning and flexibility! Here are a few simple steps to get started:
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Decide on the camp length – Will it run for a few days, a full week, or just a single fun day?
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Choose your location – Indoors, outdoors, at home, a classroom, or a church space.
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Set your group size – Plan based on how many kids will attend and the supervision needed.
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Gather basic supplies – Stock up on paper, markers, glue, scissors, paint, and other affordable craft materials.
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Pick your crafts – Choose projects from your list that match the kids’ ages, time available, and space.
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Keep it fun and relaxed – Allow time for breaks, snacks, movement, and letting kids show off their creations.
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Add a theme – Daily themes like “Under the Sea,” “Nature Day,” or “Bible Heroes” can add extra excitement and direction.
With just a bit of prep, you can create a craft camp experience kids will remember and look forward to year after year!
18 Crafts to do at Craft Camp
Ready to fill your craft camp with fun, mess-friendly, and kid-approved projects? These 18 creative crafts are easy to set up, use simple supplies, and are perfect for a wide range of ages. Whether you’re running a full camp or a single craft day, this list has something for everyone!
Canvas Art
Let kids unleash their inner artist with canvas painting! Whether it’s abstract splashes or themed canvas art like nature or sunsets, this is a great way to encourage creativity and confidence.
Rock Painting
Turn ordinary rocks into colorful works of art using paint, markers, and a bit of imagination. Kids can make animals, patterns, or uplifting message stones to share or keep.
Simple Origami
Teach kids how to fold paper into fun shapes like animals, bookmarks, or hearts. Origami is a relaxing craft that builds focus and fine motor skills.
God’s Eye Yarn with Sticks
Using two sticks and colorful yarn, kids can create a woven “God’s Eye” symbol. This craft is both calming and symbolic, often used to talk about watching over loved ones.
Salt Name Art
With glue, salt, and watercolors, kids can design their names in a magical textured art piece. It’s a vibrant, hands-on way to mix art and science.
Straw Rockets
Build mini paper rockets that really fly using just paper and straws! This simple STEM craft is perfect for outdoor fun and learning about motion.
Paper Mosaic
Let kids cut or tear paper to create beautiful mosaic art. From patterns to animals to initials, this craft encourages creativity and color matching. This can be simple with construction paper.
Paper Plate Frisbee
Kids can decorate paper plates and then turn them into flying frisbees for games. It’s a simple and active craft that blends art and play.
Dream Catcher
Using yarn, beads, and a hoop or paper plate, kids can make their own dream catchers. It’s a meaningful craft that doubles as beautiful room décor.
Paper Spinner
Create colorful spinning toys with paper, a string, and some clever design. These simple spinners are fun to make and even more fun to watch in action!
Penny Spinner
With just some cardstock and a penny, kids can make a DIY fidget spinner that actually works. Decorate with markers and enjoy the spin!
Panda with a Yarn Belly
This cute panda craft combines coloring and yarn wrapping to create a 3D belly. It’s an adorable project that’s great for little hands.
Summer Bucket List with Printable
Kids can decorate and fill in their own printable summer bucket list. It’s a creative way to plan fun activities and get excited about the season.
Butterfly Coffee Filters
Turn coffee filters into beautiful watercolor butterflies with markers and a spray of water. Add clothespins and antennae for a fluttery finish!
Stacking Turtle
This layered paper turtle craft lets kids color and cut out turtle shapes that stack on top of each other. It’s simple, adorable, and great for fine motor skills.
Tissue Paper Rainbow
Kids glue bright squares of tissue paper to make their own rainbow art. It’s colorful, cheery, and perfect for learning about colors or weather.
Paint with Straws
Let kids blow through straws to spread paint into crazy, colorful patterns. It’s messy, giggly fun that produces surprisingly cool abstract art!
Egg Carton Bugs
Reuse egg cartons to make adorable bugs like ladybugs, caterpillars, or bees. Add pipe cleaners, googly eyes, and paint to bring your bugs to life!
Schedule for a Craft Camp
Here’s a sample daily schedule you can follow or adapt for your craft camp:
9:00 AM – Arrival & Icebreaker Game
9:30 AM – Craft #1 (Main Craft of the Day)
10:15 AM – Snack & Play Break
10:45 AM – Craft #2 (Quick, Hands-On or Outdoor Craft)
11:30 AM – Show & Tell or Group Game
12:00 PM – Dismissal or Lunch if Staying Longer
If your camp is longer than half a day, add in free art time, a themed story or music session, or a group craft that builds over several days. The key is to keep things moving but flexible—crafting should be fun, not rushed!
Also, if your crafts are shorter, you can add in a third craft and shorten the craft times.
What fun Crafts Will You do at Craft Camp?
Craft camp is a wonderful way to inspire creativity, build community, and give kids the chance to make something they’re proud of. With just a few simple supplies and some easy-to-follow ideas, you can create a memorable experience that keeps little hands and imaginations busy all week long. Use this list of 18 creative crafts as your guide, and don’t be surprised if craft camp becomes a new favorite summer tradition!
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