If you enjoy crafting, you’re in luck! Studies have found that engaging in arts and crafts, such as painting or knitting, can positively impact mental health by increasing life satisfaction, reducing stress, and combating loneliness. These creative activities help contribute to well-being by fostering a sense of accomplishment and purpose.
If you’ve never crafted in your life, but would like to start, or if you’re looking for some new ideas, we’ve got you covered! In observance of National Craft Month, we’ve rounded up a few easy crafts to get you started.
This craft inspired by instant noodles turns everyday supplies into a cute, customizable keepsake. It’s quick, kid‑friendly, and full of opportunities to get creative!
diy explosion boxes
Don’t worry, you don’t need any explosive materials for these customizable gift boxes. Once the lid is removed, the sides fall to reveal what’s inside. Some people add confetti, items that pop out, or multiple layers, but we’re keeping it simple (and practical).
diy window clings
You won’t believe how easy and inexpensive window clings are to make. Plus, your keiki can get involved. While the clings we made are hearts in honor of Valentine’s Day, you can make any shape you’d like!
celebrate the hoary bat
Even though this was a Halloween craft, you can honor Hawaii’s only native land mammal, the hoary bat, anytime! Keiki will have fun launching them into the air to see how far they can fly.
felt fortune cookies
These colorful and adorable felt fortune cookies are surprisingly easy to make! We made them in red and pink for Valentine’s Day, but you can use any color you’d like!
fry guy card
Giving someone a box of paper fries may seem like a strange gift, but they’re sure to love this printable and customizable card. It’s cute, zero calories, and won’t clog arteries!
glow-in-the-dark slippers
If you’ve ever had a difficult time finding your slippers in the dark, this craft is for you. Pick up some nontoxic, glow-in-the-dark paint from a craft store, big box retailer, or online. You can customize your existing slippers or purchase inexpensive slippers for the entire family!
koinobori: let your fish flag fly
Celebrate creativity any time of year with this vibrant koinobori craft. With our downloadable template and a few simple supplies, you and your family can make your own unique koinobori on May 5, Children’s Day in Japan, and beyond.
mini snow globes
What’s more whimsical than a snow globe? They’re fun to look at, but regular-sized snow globes can take up a lot of space. That’s why we’re making a mini version from items around the house, giving them a second life.
unleash your creativi-tea teapot
Originally intended as a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift, this peekaboo teapot is a quick, easy, and meaningful craft that’s fun for keiki to make. They can use a photo, write a heartfelt message, and have a tea-rrific time when they assemble this adorable teapot card.
punch cards (to achieve goals)
For Heart Month, we wrote an article about how punch cards can help you stay on track to get enough water, eat healthier meals, and move more! We also have a blank punch card you can customize to help you achieve your own goals. The more creative, the better!
sweet and simple snack lei
Hawaii is known for its beautiful flowers and tradition of giving lei. But what if a friend or family member is allergic to flowers or would prefer not to receive them? You could make a yarn or ribbon lei or create something even more personalized (and yummy)! Here’s a simple snack lei that’s easy to make and thoughtful, too.
