On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, bring summer into your creativity with these nature crafts perfect for the whole family.
Summer’s here, and what better way to soak in the sun than getting crafty with nature? Connecting with the great outdoors can ignite your creativity and provide endless materials right at your fingertips. There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning natural finds into beautiful crafts that enhance your living space or make thoughtful gifts. From simple leaf prints to stunning rock paintings, these 19 nature crafts will breathe life into your summer days. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and unleash your inner artist!
These projects are not just fun; they’re eco-friendly, using materials that Mother Nature provides! Gather the kids, head out for a nature walk, and collect twigs, stones, flowers, and leaves. You’ll be amazed at what you can create. Let’s dive into these delightful nature crafts that will transform your summer into a colorful, creative experience.
1. Leaf Press Art
One of the simplest yet most elegant crafts is creating leaf press art. All you need are fresh leaves, some heavy books, and paper. Start by collecting leaves of different shapes and colors during your outdoor adventure. To help with the pressing process, consider using a heavy duty book press for a more efficient and even press. Place the leaves between two sheets of paper and press them in a heavy book for a week. Once dried, remove them and arrange on a canvas or a piece of cardstock.
Using eco-friendly craft glue or double-sided tape, affix the leaves in a creative layout. You can also paint around them to create a beautiful background!
– Tip: Use dark or vivid colors for the background to make the leaves pop!
– Unique Insight: This craft not only gives you beautiful decor but also helps kids learn about different types of leaves.
– Eco-Friendly: All materials used are biodegradable, making this an excellent nature craft for the summer! Consider using acid-free craft paper for your projects to ensure longevity and quality.
Let your imagination run wild with arrangements, or send these lovely pieces as cards to family and friends.
Product Recommendations:
• heavy duty book press
• eco-friendly craft glue
• acid-free craft paper
2. Rock Painting
Rock painting is a fun and trendy craft that has taken many people by storm. The great thing about it? You can find rocks in your own backyard! After a delightful afternoon of collecting smooth stones, gather some acrylic paints to unleash your creativity. You can paint anything from simple designs to intricate patterns or even inspiring messages.
To get started, set up a designated outdoor painting station using a blue tarpaulin waterproof tarp. This will keep your area clean and protect the ground from any paint spills. Once your artwork is finished, don’t forget to use a sealant spray for crafts to protect your painted rocks from the elements. A clear satin finish will ensure your designs stay vibrant and intact, even when exposed to outdoor conditions.
Decorated rocks can then be hidden around your neighborhood to spread joy or placed in your garden as unique decor. This project not only fosters creativity but also encourages a sense of community spirit as you share your painted rocks with others, inviting them to join in the fun! For an added bonus, grab an acrylic paint set with a variety of colors to let your imagination flow.
Product Recommendations:
• Blue tarpaulin waterproof tarp
• Sealant spray for crafts
• Acrylic paint set
3. Flower Crown Making
Bring a touch of enchanting nature to your summer days by crafting beautiful flower crowns. You’ll need a selection of fresh flowers, some sturdy floral wire, and floral tape. Start by choosing flowers that are in bloom and have sturdy stems, like daisies, wildflowers, or any garden favorites.
– Instructions: Cut the stems to about 4-6 inches long and form a flower chain by twisting them together. Use floral wire to create a base that fits comfortably around your head, ensuring that it holds the weight of your flowers. Secure the flowers in place with floral tape, which will help keep everything intact and looking fresh.
– Tip: To make your crown last longer, pick your flowers early in the morning and keep them in water until ready to use.
– Unique Insight: These crowns are not only great for summer festivals but also make for adorable photo shoots with friends and family. For those looking for a variety of blooms, consider getting a fresh flower assortment, which provides you with a beautiful selection to choose from.
Creating a flower crown is a magical summer experience that allows everyone to express their personality and style while enjoying the beauty of nature.
Product Recommendations:
• Floral wire
• Floral tape
• Fresh flower assortment
4. Nature Journals
Capture the essence of summer with a nature journal, perfect for both kids and adults! This craft involves collecting leaves, flowers, and other natural items to create a personalized journal. Start with a blank nature journal, which features half blank and wide-ruled pages, allowing you to jot down your observations and sketches comfortably. You can also make your own journal with recycled paper and decorate the cover with nature-themed drawings.
While you’re out, take notes about what you see: different plants, animals, or even the weather. Glue in leaves or flower petals as you go, making each page a unique piece of art. For an added creative touch, consider using nature-themed stickers to embellish your entries—these waterproof, reusable stickers are perfect for enhancing the visual appeal of your journal.
Additionally, if you enjoy drawing, a set of watercolor pencils can help you capture the colors and details of the natural world around you. Each entry can transform into a cherished memory, combining your observations with artistic expression.
Nature journals not only encourage observation skills but also serve as a great reference for learning about local ecosystems. This craft fosters a deep connection with nature, making each entry a keepsake of your summer adventures!
Product Recommendations:
• blank nature journal
• nature-themed stickers
• watercolor pencils
5. Pinecone Bird Feeders
Bring nature to your backyard by making pinecone bird feeders! These simple feeders attract birds and are easy to create with just a few ingredients. Start by gathering some natural pinecones, like the ones available as 240PCS pine cones (natural), during your next walk. Once you have your pinecones, coat them in smooth peanut butter, such as Pip & Nut – smooth peanut butter (natural, no added sugar). This makes for an ideal sticky surface to hold the birdseed.
Next, roll the coated pinecone in birdseed, using a blend like Extra Select premium wild bird food, until it’s fully covered.
– Instructions: Hang these on trees using twine or string and watch nature come to life as birds flock to your homemade treats!
– Tip: Place multiple feeders around your garden to attract various birds.
– Unique Insight: This craft can be a fun learning experience for children about local wildlife and the importance of caring for our feathered friends.
Making pinecone bird feeders is a delightful way to engage with wildlife while supporting local ecosystems, making it a perfect summer activity!
Product Recommendations:
• 240PCS pine cones (natural)
• Pip & Nut – smooth peanut butter (natural
• no added sugar)
• Extra Select premium wild bird food
6. Nature Tye-Dye
You’re going to love how easy and vibrant nature tie-dye can be! This eco-friendly project transforms plain white fabrics into colorful masterpieces using flowers, fruits, and leaves. Simply gather natural dyes by crushing or boiling your collected materials and mixing them with water.
Start by soaking your fabric, such as cotton muslin fabric, in a vinegar-water solution to help the colors set better. Next, use rubber bands for crafts to tie sections of the fabric, which will create unique patterns once dyed. Once you’ve applied your dyes, let the fabric dry in the sun and admire the stunning patterns that emerge.
Tip: Experiment with different plant materials for a variety of colors!
Unique Insight: This craft not only creates beautiful clothing but also teaches kids about natural dyes and the science behind color extraction. Plus, if you want to elevate your project, consider a natural fabric dye kit that includes all you need for vibrant colors without toxins.
Nature tie-dye is an exciting way to encourage creativity while promoting eco-friendly practices!
Product Recommendations:
• cotton muslin fabric
• rubber bands for crafts
• natural fabric dye kit
7. Seashell Crafting
### 7. Seashell Crafting
If you’ve spent a sunny day at the beach, you probably collected a few seashells. Instead of leaving them in a jar, why not turn them into stunning crafts? With seashells, you can create beautiful necklaces, picture frames, or even decorative jars.
– **How-To**: Start by cleaning your shells. For attaching shells to picture frames or jars, a reliable tool like the Tilswall hot glue gun will make the job quick and easy. This 50W mini melt gun comes with 75 glue sticks, perfect for all your crafting needs, whether you’re creating art, sealing items, or making DIY projects.
– **Tip**: Enhance your seashells with vibrant colors using the KOLOR KINGDOM acrylic paint set. This set includes 24 colors and 3 brushes, providing you with a wide palette to bring your seashells to life.
– **Unique Insight**: This craft allows children to express their creativity and learn about marine life simultaneously, making it both educational and fun. Additionally, if you’re planning to display your creations, consider using the HAUSPROFI picture frame kit for all your hanging needs. This kit has various hooks and accessories to ensure your beautiful creations are showcased perfectly.
Seashell crafting is a fantastic way to preserve summer memories and bring a touch of the beach to your home!
Product Recommendations:
• Tilswall hot glue gun
• KOLOR KINGDOM acrylic paint set
• HAUSPROFI picture frame kit
8. Nature Weaving
Nature weaving is a fantastic way to combine crafting with the beauty of your surroundings. Gather sticks, leaves, and grasses to create your own natural weaving loom.
– Instructions: Use two sturdy sticks as the base and tie them together with twine, such as natural twine. This biodegradable jute twine is perfect for securely fastening your loom and is eco-friendly, making it a great addition to your nature-inspired project. Then, use thinner branches or grasses to weave in and out, adding leaves or flowers as you go. If you need to cut your materials, craft scissors with ultra-sharp titanium coating will help ensure clean cuts, making the process smooth and enjoyable for everyone.
– Tip: The more variety in materials you use, the more vibrant your weaving will be! Consider using some assorted craft leaves and flowers to add color and texture to your project. These artificial silk leaves can complement your natural finds and create a visually stunning piece.
– Unique Insight: This project promotes fine motor skills in younger children while allowing everyone to engage with the textures and colors of nature. Creating your own nature weaving can enhance your outdoor experience, turning a simple walk into an artistic adventure!
Product Recommendations:
• natural twine
• craft scissors
• assorted craft leaves and flowers
9. Garden Markers with Stones
Make your garden even more charming with unique garden markers crafted from stones! This craft is a great way to engage children in gardening while adding a personal touch. Start by gathering smooth stones, like the smooth river stones, which are perfect for painting and come in a natural shape and size for your project.
Next, grab some acrylic paint, such as the Acrylic Paint Set featuring 24 vibrant colors. This set is ideal for creating colorful names of your plants or decorative designs on the stones.
Once your stones are painted and dry, seal your creations with a clear acrylic spray, like the clear acrylic spray sealer, to protect them from weather wear and tear.
Creating garden markers blends art with nature, turning your garden into a personalized oasis while also helping young ones learn about plant names and care!
Product Recommendations:
• smooth river stones
• Acrylic Paint Set
• clear acrylic spray sealer
10. Twig Picture Frames
Capture your summer memories with unique twig picture frames! Gather twigs from your backyard or local park, or for added convenience, pick up a pack of natural twigs bundle to get started on building a frame for your favorite photos.
– Instructions: Arrange the twigs in a rectangular or circular shape and use a hot glue gun to secure them together. This easy-to-use tool will make it simple to attach the twigs, ensuring they stay in place as you create your masterpiece. You can also add embellishments like flowers or leaves for a natural touch.
– Tip: Use a sturdy backing like cardboard sheets to support your frame. The thick cardboard will provide the necessary strength and stability, making it perfect for displaying your artwork.
This project not only decorates your home but also encourages children to appreciate the beauty of natural materials. Twig picture frames are an easy and charming way to showcase those cherished summer moments!
Product Recommendations:
• natural twigs bundle
• hot glue gun
• cardboard sheets
11. Nature Collage
Get creative with a nature collage! This craft offers endless possibilities using leaves, petals, and other organic materials. Start by collecting your favorites during a nature walk, and then arrange them on a canvas or paper.
To secure your items, you’ll need reliable adhesive, such as Bostik PVA Glue, which is solvent-free and dries clear, making it perfect for arts and crafts without any mess.
Once you’ve gathered your natural treasures, use canvas panels to provide a sturdy base for your artwork. These triple-primed, acid-free canvases ensure that your creations remain vibrant and intact over time.
You can create themes like ‘Summer Colors’ or ‘Nature’s Textures’ by gluing your collected items down in a collage format. Diversifying the sizes and shapes of your materials will add visual interest to your piece.
For a more guided experience, consider the Nature Craft Kit, which is designed for kids ages 5 and up. This kit includes everything needed to spark creativity and connect with the outdoor world.
Each collage can tell a story about your summer adventures and spark discussions about nature. Nature collages are a fantastic way for kids to express themselves and deepen their appreciation for the environment!
Product Recommendations:
• Bostik PVA Glue
• canvas panels
• Nature Craft Kit
12. Conch Shell Candles
### 12. Conch Shell Candles
Bring a little tropical vibe to your summer evenings with conch shell candles! These are perfect for outdoor dining or cozy nights. You’ll need conch shells, wax, and wicks to create these delightful candles.
Start by melting the wax using a double boiler. For the wax, consider using Soy Wax, BOYUJK Premium Natural Candle Wax, which is 100% soy and free from additives, ensuring a clean and safe burn. Once melted, carefully pour it into clean, dry conch shells. Make sure to insert the wick, which you can find in bulk as Candle Wicks for Making Candles, before the wax hardens.
For an extra touch of charm, you can add essential oils to the wax for a delightful fragrance. You can source beautiful conch shells as Natural Conch Shells, perfect for this craft.
These conch shell candles can be a charming gift or a centerpiece for summer parties, creating an inviting atmosphere. They blend the beauty of nature with practical use, making them a fantastic summer craft!
Product Recommendations:
• Soy Wax
• BOYUJK Premium Natural Candle Wax
• Candle Wicks for Making Candles
• Natural Conch Shells
13. Leaf Rubbings
Leaf rubbings are a classic craft that’s simple yet effective. This project is perfect for younger kids and helps them learn about different leaves. To create beautiful leaf rubbings, start by collecting various leaves with interesting shapes and placing them under a sheet of paper. Then, using some vibrant crayons, like Crayola crayons, rub over the top to reveal stunning patterns.
Additionally, to capture your child’s artistic creations, consider using a drawing paper pad with premium pages perfect for coloring and sketching. This will give them a dedicated space to showcase their leaf rubbings and other art projects.
For those eager to explore nature more, a nature exploration kit can enhance the experience. It includes tools like binoculars and a magnifying glass, fostering curiosity and encouraging outdoor adventures. Leaf rubbings not only nurture creativity but also help children identify local plants, making it a delightful way to combine nature study with art, leaving you with lovely pieces of artwork!
Product Recommendations:
• Crayola crayons
• drawing paper pad
• nature exploration kit
14. Sun Prints
Capture the beauty of nature with sun prints! This technique uses light-sensitive paper to create stunning images of leaves, flowers, and other objects. You’ll need sun print paper and your favorite natural elements to get started.
To make your sun prints, arrange objects on sun print paper in direct sunlight, then rinse the paper after a few minutes with water to reveal your prints. For those looking to enhance their collection of natural elements, consider using the natural elements collection featuring 39 dried flowers from 15 different kinds, perfect for creating unique designs.
Additionally, if you wish to add some finishing touches to your artwork, a watercolor set can be a great way to elevate your sun prints with beautiful colors.
Experiment with different exposure times for unique effects, and enjoy the process as this craft merges science with art, teaching kids about light and shadow while encouraging exploration. Sun prints are a magical way to immortalize nature’s beauty and create unique art pieces that showcase your creativity!
Product Recommendations:
• Sun print paper
• watercolor set
15. Dried Flower Bookmarks
Create beautiful bookmarks using dried flowers! This craft is not only practical but also allows you to preserve the beauty of summer blooms. Collect small flowers and leaves, then press them in a heavy book until dried. A great option for pressing is the Sanlebi large flower press kit, which features 10 layers and comes with a storage bag, making it easy to create your own pressed flower collection.
Once your flowers are dried, use a thin layer of clear contact paper to laminate your bookmarks. This will not only protect your beautiful creations but also give them a polished finish. After laminating, cut to your preferred size for lovely personalized bookmarks!
For a charming final touch, consider adding some decorative flair with decorative ribbons. They come in natural jute fabric, perfect for enhancing your bookmarks and making them truly special.
These dried flower bookmarks serve as a wonderful reminder of summer reading adventures and are an eco-friendly way to cherish summer’s beauty while indulging in your favorite stories!
Product Recommendations:
• Sanlebi large flower press kit
• clear contact paper
• decorative ribbons
16. Natural Soap Making
Turn your summer crafting into a delightful experience with natural soap making! This craft can be done using melt-and-pour soap bases along with natural ingredients like essential oils and herbs. For an excellent foundation, consider using the Melt and Pour Soap Base Shea Butter, which is SLS free and comes in various sizes to suit your needs.
To elevate the scent and therapeutic qualities of your soap, you’ll want to mix in some natural fragrance. The Essential Oils for Soap Making offer a fantastic selection of premium-grade oils perfect for crafting aromatic soaps.
Once you have your soap base and ingredients ready, melt the soap base, mix in your chosen natural ingredients, and pour into molds. For fun shapes, try using Silicone Soap Molds. These molds allow for creativity and ease of use, making it simple to create unique designs.
Allow your soaps to set and enjoy using or gifting your creations! This craft not only encourages creativity but also promotes self-care through natural products, making it a rewarding summer activity that combines fun and practicality.
Product Recommendations:
• Melt and Pour Soap Base Shea Butter
• Essential Oils for Soap Making
• Silicone Soap Molds
17. Nature Marble Painting
Nature marble painting brings a twist to traditional marble painting using leaves and flowers! To start, use a shallow box or tray like the DBOO 5 Pcs plastic trays which are perfect for keeping your workspace clean while allowing for easy movement of your canvas. Simply place your canvas inside the tray, add paint, and dip leaves or flowers for a tactile experience.
Arrange your leaves and flowers inside the box and roll marbles, such as the Ram 100 X glass marbles, around to create stunning patterns. These marbles are not just fun but also enhance the rolling effect, creating beautiful abstract art as they mix colors.
Don’t forget to use a variety of colors with an Acrylic paint set for vibrant results! The different shades will contribute to the final artwork’s beauty.
This craft promotes sensory exploration while engaging children’s creativity, making nature marble painting a playful and artistic way to enjoy the outdoors while creating your unique piece of art!
Product Recommendations:
• DBOO 5 Pcs plastic trays
• Ram 100 X glass marbles
• Acrylic paint set
18. Nature Wind Chimes
Bring soothing sounds to your garden with nature wind chimes! Collect twigs, shells, and other found objects around your yard or beach. To help you craft these unique chimes, consider using natural twine. This biodegradable jute string is perfect for tying your collected items together, ensuring they stay secure while swaying freely in the breeze.
– Instructions: Arrange your collected items based on size and shape, then use the twine to bind them together. Hang your chimes in a breezy area!
– Tip: For extra sound, think about adding some small bells for crafts. These little metal bells not only add a charming touch but enhance the musical quality of your wind chimes.
– Unique Insight: Wind chimes not only beautify your outdoor space but also promote mindfulness through their calming sounds.
Additionally, if you’re looking for natural elements to incorporate, consider using assorted shells for crafting. With a bag containing over 30 pieces, these beach shells offer a wonderful variety to include in your design.
Crafting nature wind chimes is a beautiful and tuneful way to enjoy the summer breeze!
Product Recommendations:
• natural twine
• small bells for crafts
• assorted shells for crafting
19. Summer Scented Sachets
Create delightful summer-scented sachets using dried flowers and herbs! Gather lavender, chamomile, or rose petals during your outdoor adventures and dry them thoroughly.
– Instructions: Fill small fabric pouches or bags, like these fabric pouches for sachets, with your dried herbs and flowers. These reusable bags are perfect for holding your fragrant creations. Sew or tie them closed with supplies from an sewing kit for crafting, which comes with everything you need including needles and thread. Place your sachets in drawers or closets to keep things smelling fresh!
– Tip: Mix different scents for a unique blend!
– Unique Insight: These sachets make wonderful gifts that showcase the beauty and fragrance of summer. You can enhance your sachets with options like dried flowers and herbs mix, particularly fragrant lavender buds, to create delightful combinations.
Summer-scented sachets are a lovely way to keep your spaces smelling fresh while preserving the essence of your summer adventures!
Product Recommendations:
• fabric pouches for sachets
• sewing kit for crafting
• dried flowers and herbs mix
Conclusion
Crafting with nature offers endless possibilities for creativity and fun during the summer! Whether it’s making art with leaves, creating beautiful gifts, or engaging with wildlife, these 19 nature crafts provide unique opportunities to connect with the environment. Gather your materials, invite friends or family, and let your creativity bloom!
As you embark on these crafty adventures, remember to embrace the beauty of nature and the joy it brings. Share your creations and inspire others to embrace crafting with nature too! Here’s to a summer filled with creativity and wholesome experiences.
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