Let’s be real — being creative is a bit like therapy, but with glitter and glue guns! If you’re anything like me, the idea of adding artsy ideas to your bucket list probably sounds like a colorful mix of inspiration and delightful messes.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY-er or just dipping your toes into the realm of arts & crafts, this list is packed with artsy adventures that are guaranteed to spark creativity, and maybe even add a new hobby or two to your repertoire.
Fun Artsy Things to Try
1. Blow Glass
Blowing glass might sound like something you’d leave to the pros, but it’s surprisingly approachable for beginners. Don’t get me wrong, there’s a learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, you can create all sorts of cool stuff. Think colorful vases, funky ornaments, or even your own drinking glasses.
Start by looking up community colleges or universities, art institutes, or studios in your area that offer introductory courses.
2. Make a Terrarium
If you’ve ever wanted to bring a little nature indoors without turning your living room into a jungle, making a terrarium is the way to go. You just need a glass container, some soil, pebbles, and a few low-maintenance plants. It’s as easy as layering a parfait.
Want to build a self-sustaining ecosystem? Inspired by Charm has some great instructions and Life in Mini shows how to make the cutest mini terrariums!
3. Build a birdhouse
Building a birdhouse is a fun, hands-on project that can turn your backyard into a haven for local birds. There are boxy ones, fancy ones that look like houses, and even ones shaped like owls! And hey, if you want to be extra, research the birds in your area. Knowing their tastes in housing can help you build the perfect crib.
Ready to become a backyard birder? Learn how to build a birdhouse here:
4. Do a “Paint by Numbers” piece of art
Completing a “Paint by Numbers” piece is like coloring inside the lines, but with a grown-up twist. It’s simple to get started; all you need is a kit, which basically includes everything you need, including pre-mixed colors and brushes.
PS: I’ve picked some cute ones for you to try: 25 Best Paint by Number Kits for Adults (Create a Masterpiece!)
5. Complete a Cross Stitch Piece
Okay, so cross-stitching may seem like something your grandma does, but I promise it’s a really enjoyable way to pass the time. It’s a bit like painting by numbers but with thread.
6. Make a Recipes Book
If you’ve ever wanted to preserve your family’s culinary treasures or just organize all those recipe scraps you’ve collected over the years, a recipe book project is the way to go.
7. Work on a Pottery Wheel
The first moment your hands come into contact with the cool, moist clay while the wheel hums beneath you is very amazing. Sure, you’ll probably make a lopsided bowl or two, but that’s all part of the fun. PS: It makes for the perfect date night too!
8. Keep a Wine Journal
Keeping a wine journal might sound like something out of a sommelier’s handbook, but it’s actually a fun and easy way to elevate your wine experience. Got a bottle you loved? Write it down. A wine that made you scrunch your face? Yep, that goes in too.
9. Craft dream catchers
Dream catchers – ever heard of them? They’re these cool, circular crafts made with hoops, feathers, beads, and string, like little webs for your dreams. Traditionally, they filter out nightmares, letting only the sweetest dreams sneak through.
Making one is easier than it looks, seriously. Just grab some hoops, twine, feathers, and beads, and you’re halfway there. There’s tons of online guides that can walk you through the steps, here’s a couple good ones:
10. Create a Bumper Sticker
Whether you want to share a witty quip or declare your love for tacos, the options for creating a bumper sticker are endless. One tip I could give is less is more with bumper stickers — keep it simple, catchy, and let the sticker speak for itself. PS: you can easily get them printed online at Vistaprint!
11. Create a Children’s Book
If you’ve ever had a simple story bubbling in your brain, creating a children’s book is a perfect way to let it out. Many famous authors, like Dr. Seuss, started out by jotting down simple rhymes and doodles, which eventually grew into classics like “The Cat in the Hat”.
12. Design a Family Logo
Creating a family logo is like crafting your own little crest, a badge that says, ‘This is us!’ Start by brainstorming symbols or colors that mean something to your family and go from there. The toughest part might just be agreeing on the design!
Feeling stumped? This can help for some logo design inspiration: 30 Best Family Logo Design Ideas You Should Check by Kreafolk
13. Create a Family Tree
How well do you know your family? I mean really know them. Creating a family tree is like peeling back layers of history, one branch at a time. It’s not as tough as it sounds — just start with what you know and work your way back. You’ll find yourself chatting with relatives more often, diving into old records, and maybe even discovering a few surprises.
Grab a notebook, a genealogy app (I like Ancestory.com), or just a big sheet of paper, and start mapping out your roots.
14. Make a New Ice Cream Flavor
Creating a new ice cream flavor is like being the mad scientist of desserts—it’s all about mixing up the familiar with the unexpected. Whether you’re blending basil with strawberries or adding a pinch of paprika to caramel, the joy comes in crafting something truly your own.
15. Make a Piece of Art & Sell it
Turning your creative flair into a paycheck sounds pretty sweet, right? Making and selling your own art is s an opportunity to showcase your skill and earn additional money, whether you’re knitting, painting, or creating digital art.
16. Do leaf rubbing art
Ever tried making art with leaves? Leaf rubbing is like a blast from the past — remember rubbing coins under paper as a kid? It’s that, but with nature’s artwork. Just grab some leaves, place them under a sheet of paper, and rub with crayons or pencils. You’ll reveal the intricate veins and patterns of the leaves, creating a natural masterpiece.
17. Design Your Own Fragrance
Stores like Olfactory NYC offer the chance to mix and match notes until you’ve got something that feels, well, like you. But hey, you don’t have to stop there — you can whip up your signature scent at home too—Savvy Homemade can show you how.
18. Create your own Personal Stationery
Crafting your own personal stationery is like putting your signature on paper. From designing your letterhead to creating fun note cards, it’s a chance to show off your style.
19. Decorate Rocks
Rocks—they’re practically everywhere, which will make for a cheap canvas for your creativity. You can try painting colorful animal portraits to calm landscapes and unique abstract patterns. You can then use your masterpiece as charming garden decorations or personalized paperweights.
20. Decoupage Something
Decoupage, or as I like to call it, the art of gluing stuff with style, is an age-old technique involving sticking paper cutouts to a surface (such a plain picture frame or a thrift store table) and then covering them with a lacquer or varnish to provide protection. Give it a try, and you’ll see how easy it is to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary!
21. Design a Piece of Jewelry
Have you ever considered creating a custom jewelry design? You get to pick the colors, forms, and style that best suit your mood. And if you’re having a hard time going the DIY route, no worries — you can team up with a jeweler who’ll help turn your idea into something real.
22. Design a Website
Whether you’re showcasing your photography, artwork, or even a personal blog, your own website is a way to express yourself digitally. It’s a mix of creativity and strategy, where you get to choose colors, layouts, fonts, and images to reflect you.
P.S. Even if you have no knowledge of web design, there are tons of website builders (like Squarespace or Wix) that make it easy to drag and drop elements to create your layout.
23. Do a 3D Puzzle
If solving puzzles on a 2D plane (like a jigsaw) isn’t challenging enough, why not take it up a notch with a 3D puzzle? Instead of a flat image, you’re assembling a structure, often resembling vehicles, animals, or even famous landmarks (like one of Big Ben in London) . It’s a bit like putting together a model kit or a Lego set, where each piece clicks into place to form something real and impressive.
24. Do a Water Balloon Painting
To do water balloon painting, all you really need are water balloons filled with paint and a surface to paint on, and chuck away! With all the elements of randomness and surprise involved, you never quite know what the final result will look like (and that’s part of the fun.)
25. Do Graffiti
While it takes a mix of creativity, boldness, and some technical skills like spray painting and stenciling, the real magic happens when you let your imagination run wild and master the spray can. Whether you find a public graffiti wall in your area or set up a makeshift one in your backyard, the key is to dive in and start creating your art.
26. Enter Art in an Exhibit
Entering your art in an exhibit is like throwing your creative hat into the ring of public opinion. It’s a chance to showcase your masterpieces and see how the world reacts to your vision. Whether your artwork is a simple sketch or a quirky self portrait, art is all about perception—what speaks to one might puzzle another.
27. Furnish a Dollhouse
From picking out tiny furniture to arranging it just right, furnishing a dollhouse is like designing your own miniature dream home. You can go vintage with delicate wooden pieces or modern with sleek, colorful designs. Add miniature rugs, curtains, and even tiny wall art to add personality to each of your dollhouse’s rooms. And, of course, let’s not forget the little doll people!
28. Hang a homemade wind chimes
Wind chimes have a way of turning even the slightest breeze into music, and there’s something extra special about creating your own. Each chime, whether made from shells, metal, or wood, adds a personal touch to your outdoor space, not to mention the joy of seeing and hearing them every time the wind blows. Need cute ideas? Check out these 13 DIY Wind Chimes.
29. Knit a Scarf
Scarves are relatively simple to make (which is great for beginners) and they’re a versatile accessory that can be worn year-round. Plus, they’re a great way to experiment with different knitting stitches and techniques.
30. Make a Calendar with Your Own Photos
A calendar you create from your own photos is a wonderful way to display your best moments all year long. Plus, flipping the page each month feels a bit like opening a new chapter of your story. Shutterfly is a great place to make one!
31. Make a Candle
Crafting candles yourself combines creativity and practicality, and witnessing your homemade candles lit is just simply rewarding. Better Homes & Gardens has a great guide on how to make candles with your favorite scents.
32. Make a Coloring Book
Draw out some simple designs like cute animals or characters (or use a digital program like Canva), or if you want to take it up a notch, you can go crazy with intricate designs and illustrations (especially for adult coloring books.). Then either take it to your local printer or find one online.
33. Make a Cork Board
Got a bunch of corks lying around from all of those wine nights? Yea, me too. Why not turn them into a corkboard? Making your own is a fun and crafty way to add some charm to your space while keeping all those important notes, photos, or quirky doodles organized.
Check out this article for more a crafty idea to kick-start your corkboard project: The secret to making a DIY cork bulletin board by Green with Decor
34. Make a Flower Arrangement
Whether you go for a classic bouquet or explore the art of ikebana — a Japanese technique emphasizing minimalism and balance— flower arranging lets you brighten up any space or gift someone a bit of nature’s beauty.
35. Make a Font Out of My Handwriting
Ever thought your scribbles could star in their own font? Well, now they can! Turning your handwriting into a custom typeface is a super fun artsy project that adds a personal flair to everything from invitations to digital notes. You can check out websites like Calligraphr or apps like iFontMaker to start turning your handwriting into a font masterpiece!
36. Make a Gingerbread House
There’s something magical about crafting your own little sugary cottage, complete with the candy roofs and gumdrop pathways.
If you’re not ready to bake from scratch, you can get yourself a gingerbread house kit instead. They make it easy to get started and focus on the fun part: decorating!
37. Make a Handmade Gift
Whether you’re knitting a cozy scarf, painting a one-of-a-kind mug, or whipping up some homemade bath salts, nothing says “I care” like a gift made with your own two hands.
Handmade gifts are so much fun to make, and these links can help you get some cool ideas:
38. Make a Handmade Greeting Card
Greeting cards have been around forever, but there’s just something extra special about the ones you make with your own two hands. Whether it’s a quirky doodle or a heartfelt note, handmade cards have a way of making someone’s day a bit brighter.
39. Make a paper mache sculptures
Paper mache might sound like something you did in elementary school, but it’s actually super fun as an adult too. It’s literally playing with paste and paper — who knew that could be so therapeutic?
Ready to turn a mess of newspaper and glue into a masterpiece? Craft Passion has some cute ideas!
40. Make a Scrapbook
For some nostalgic me-time, scrapbooking is the perfect art project. Whether it’s a big trip or a small, sweet memory, putting it all together in a scrapbook lets you relive those experiences every time you flip through the pages.
41. Make a Tie Dye Shirt
Making a tie-dye shirt is like bringing a burst of color to your wardrobe. The best part? You can create all sorts of patterns with different techniques.
Want a classic spiral? Twist your shirt like you’re wringing out a towel. Prefer bullseye? Bunch up sections and bind them tight.
42. Make a Wreath
Whether you’re crafting a springtime bloom or a cozy autumn masterpiece, making a wreath is like painting with nature’s finest materials. You can mix fresh flowers, dried herbs, or even quirky decorations like miniature fairy doors or a mini birdhouse. Check out A Piece of Rainbow, she’s got some cute ideas!
43. Make an Origami Animal
Folding a piece of paper into something magical is like turning nothing into something, and that’s the essence of making an origami animal. Start with a classic if you’re new to this kind of art, like a paper crane. I’ve got directions in my how to make an origami paper crane.
44. Make garden stepping stones with mosaics
Feel like your garden needs a bit more color? Why not jazz it up and add personality to your outdoor space with some garden stepping stones adorned with mosaics?
Just choose some vibrant tiles, glass fragments, or stones, and create patterns, designs, or even a mosaic of your pet’s face — talk about a conversation starter!
45. Make homemade snow globes
Ever wondered what goes into making a snow globe? It sounds like a craft for kids, but it’s really fun for adults too! A glass jar, some glycerin, glitter, and a small figurine(s) are all you’ll need. Whether you dream up a snowy village or an enchanted forest, the sky’s the limit! The Art of Doing Stuff has a great tutorial.
46. Make Paper
Start by shredding old paper, soaking it, and then blending it into a pulp. Spread the pulp onto a screen, press out the excess water, and voilà, you’ve got your own homemade paper! It’s like giving yesterday’s news a fresh start.
Here is a good DIY tutorials for making your own paper at home: How to Make Handmade Paper from Recycled Materials by Paperslurry.
47. Make Soap
Making soap is like whipping up a cake—the right mix of ingredients, careful measurements, and a bit of patience can lead to something great. If you’re after something straightforward, pre-made melt and pour bases are a great start. But if you’re game for a bit of a challenge and want to flex your creative muscles, diving into the full process is a must-try.
48. Make Stained Glass
Creating stained glass is definitely not a cakewalk. It’s an art that demands patience, precision, and a steady hand, making it one of the trickier crafts out there.
If handling glass sounds a bit daunting, no worries—there are plenty of faux stained glass projects to explore. Using plastic or acrylic makes these crafts easier to manage and less likely to break, perfect for beginners or those who want a less risky option.
49. Make tin can lanterns
Ever thought about turning trash into treasure? Tin can lanterns are an easy way to add a warm, homemade glow to your space without breaking the bank. All you need are some empty cans, a hammer, a nail, and a little creativity. Punch out a pattern, pop in a candle, and voilà — your very own lantern, perfect for cozy nights or outdoor gatherings.
For more detailed instructions and inspiring ideas, be sure to check out these helpful resources:
50. Make Your Own Lip Balm
Lip balm is one of those little things you never really think about… until you can’t find one at the bottom of your bag. But why not go beyond the usual store-bought stuff and make your own? It’s easier than you think, plus you get to control what goes into it, so no mystery ingredients here!
Ready to pucker up to a new art hobby? This article will help: Homemade Lip Balm Recipe by Wellness Mama
51. Paint Something at a Ceramic Store
When it comes to ceramics, getting your hands dirty can lead to some seriously fun results. You pick out a blank ceramic piece — maybe a mug, plate, or quirky figurine, and let your creativity do its thing.
52. Paint Something Worthy of Framing
Whether you’re channeling Van Gogh or just trying to avoid another abstract mess, aim for a piece that makes you say “Yup, that’s going on the wall!” Remember, the most valuable art is often the most personal.
53. Press Leaves & Flowers
Have you ever wanted to preserve a memory in a way that’s more than just a photo? Pressing flowers and leaves is a beautiful and simple method to do it; it involves flattening and drying botanicals between sheets of parchment paper in order to preserve them. I love using these pressed beauties in decorative art projects, from homemade cards to framed wall art.
54. Refinish a Piece of Furniture
Was there a time you saw an old piece of furniture and thought, “This still has potential”? Refinishing furniture allows you to give it new life when it would otherwise be thrown out. You get to strip away the years, smooth out the rough patches, and add your own touch to it.
55. Sew a Quilt
If you’ve ever curled up under a quilt, you know it’s like hugging a warm, cozy cloud.
Start by picking fabrics that tell your story—maybe a piece of Grandma’s old dress or some funky new patterns. The process might seem like piecing together a puzzle, but once you’ve stitched it all together, you’ll have a handmade masterpiece that’s both functional and sentimental.
56. Sew Something you can Wear
Sewing might seem a bit old-school, but trust me, there’s magic in taking a piece of fabric and turning it into your very own clothing. Plus, nothing beats the bragging rights that come with, “Oh, this? I made it!”.
57. Take a Painting Class
Ever felt the itch to unleash your inner Picasso? Taking a painting class might just be the perfect fix. It’s one of those artsy projects where you can let your creativity run wild—no rules, just you and a canvas.
58. Write a Letter in Calligraphy
It is refreshing to write a letter in calligraphy in this digital age where most of our communication is reduced to emojis and abbreviations. There’s something special about seeing your thoughts take shape in elegant curves and lines. It’s like sending a piece of yourself, beautifully crafted and totally unexpected.
There you have it; ways to transform your craft bucket list from a mere idea to a hands-on, paint-splattered, glitter-covered reality. Whether you’re sewing, painting with water balloons, or making your own ice cream flavor, these projects will add a splash of creativity to your days. Roll up your sleeves, get a little messy, and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting something with your own hands.
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