For some reason, there is this idea that craft time is only for young girls. Of course, we know that this isn’t the case — but unfortunately it is still a stereotype that prevails. We are here to break out of the mold and tell you that boys can be just as interested in artistic crafts, and performing crafts is just as important to a young boy’s development as it is to anyone else’s.
Unfortunately, many of the tutorials that you will find online are very gendered in their approach, which may make some young boys hesitate to show an interest in them. In this article, we will present 15 of our favorite crafts that will appeal to the young boy in your life!
Dinosaur Fossils
Every boy (and many girls) go through a dinosaur phase — okay, so for some of us, this phase isn’t over yet. You can help ignite your child’s interest in dinosaurs by performing this dinosaur fossil craft from Rainy Day Mum. Not only is it very hands-on, which makes it great for a child’s tactical development, but it is also a great opportunity to provide your kid with a geology lesson!
Styrofoam Owls
Styrofoam as a material gets a bad rep — mostly because we know how long it sits in the landfill before it is recycled. However, one of the things that you can do with styrofoam that you have accumulated is reuse it. If you collect enough styrofoam, you could put it to good use by making this styrofoam owl cup as seen at I Heart Crafty Things. “Hoo” wouldn’t have a great time putting this together?
Pipe Cleaner Ninjas
Pipe cleaners are one of those strange art supplies that, while somewhat ubiquitous, are also equally forgotten about until one day you are strolling down the aisles and just so happen to come upon one. Although it can be easy to write off pipe cleaners as one hit wonders (did you ever use them to make spiders in art class as a kid?), they can have many different uses. Among them being ninjas! Yes, that’s right: this guide from Frugal Fun 4 Boys will show you how you can use pipe cleaners to create a pack of ninjas for your boy or boys to play with.
Monster Bookmarks
Here is a wonderful craft idea for the budding book worm in your life! While it may not be pleasant to think about monsters living underneath the bed, it’s a different story when it comes to monsters living on your bookmark —we welcome their existence. You can find out how to make your own monster-themed bookmark over at Tally’s Treasury. Hint: these also make wonderful gifts!
Glove Monsters
This craft is a wonderful activity to do with your old hats and mittens that have been outgrown or worn out! Monsters seem to be a common theme among these crafts, but that’s okay — kids love monsters, especially when they are cute and silly looking! You can find out how to make entertaining monster puppets out of gloves by taking a peak at this tutorial from Craftaholics Anonymous.
Pool Noodle Rockets
Pool noodles can be cause for a lot of fun, but anyone who has ever spent a lot of time in a pool knows the struggle of remembering to take your noodles out of the pool before you close it up for the night. Failing to do so could leave you with the dreaded “waterlogged” noodle, which makes them not so useful as a floatation device. However, you can still make sure of them by making use of them at craft time — this tutorial from Frugal Fun 4 Boys can show you how an old pool noodle is the perfect material for making a pool noodle rocket!
Harry Potter Golden Snitch
Harry Potter is one of the most popular children’s books of all time, and merchandise related to the series abounds. However, why buy a piece of merchandise when you could make your own? If you follow this tutorial from Surpriseaholic, you can discover how you can make the celebrated golden snitch with just a few materials! This is sure to keep your child busy for at least one afternoon.
Tornado in a Bottle
If you grew up sometime in the 80s or 90s, you may be familiar with the concept of the tornado in the bottle. It was commonly used in science classrooms to demonstrate the way that different liquids interact with one another! You can pass the magic along to your child by showing them how to make their very own tornado in a bottle. This tutorial from Learning Resources is the easiest one to follow.
Tin Foil River
Here is a different kind of craft! Don’t be alarmed by its strange name — this tin foil river idea from 3 Little Greenwoods is not nearly as complicated or as messy as it sounds! It is actually the perfect backyard activity, especially if it is a hot day as you can also use the hose as a way to cool down. Bonus points if you can use discarded or otherwise recycled tinfoil, instead of going out and buying more materials!
Pine Cone Spider
We mentioned spiders earlier, and while they may not be the most unique of craft ideas, they are still a lot of fun to make! Plus, what kid doesn’t have some kind of fascination with insects, including spiders? You can make adorable cuddly spiders out of pine cones by following this tutorial over at Fireflies and Mudpies.
Balloon Animals
Did you think that balloon animals were only meant for clowns at birthday parties or special events? Think again! You can make your own balloon animals at home provided you have access to the right kind of balloons, as well as the right tutorials. Find inspiration for making your own balloon animals over at the Spruce Crafts.
Exploding Paint Bombs
We’re sure that the phrase “paint bomb” is capable of sending just as much fear into the heart’s of parents everywhere as it is capable of filling kids with joy. However, if you complete this craft outside on a hot summer’s day, you can pull it off with minimal mess! The best part is that you will end up with a beautiful canvas that is a celebration of color. Find out how over at Kid’s Activities Blog.
Pinecone Gnomes
If you are looking for something creative to do with your day, why not put your energy into making a pinecone gnome — the craft so sweet that it even rhymes! While gnomes are often thought of as ceramic monuments that sit in the front yard, there are other ways to use gnomes as decoration, as seen in this example from We Bloom Here.
Fire Breathing Dragon
What could possible be cooler than a dragon-themed craft? How about one that features a fire breathing dragon? That’s exactly what you’ll find if you follow this tutorial over at One Little Project. This is a craft project that is great for a rainy day or for a teacher who is looking for art class ideas! We love that this craft also only uses reused craft materials, which makes it very eco-friendly to boot. Chances are that you can make it with only things that you already have hanging around the house.
Clay Volcano
No list would be complete without the addition of the classic vinegar and baking soda volcano! We especially love how this volcano from the Spruce Crafts is made out of clay. It is sure to provide hours upon hours of entertainment! Of course, if your child has to do a science project, then that makes this craft an even more viable option.
So there you have it — crafting knows no gender, and boys can have just as much fun making crafts as girls can! Hopefully these craft options will help keep you little one busy for hours at end.