Mothers day crafts: kid painting a flowerpot

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50 creative and simple things kids can make and sell

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Looking for ways to nurture your child’s creativity while teaching them entrepreneurial skills? Crafting and selling handmade items is a fantastic way to merge fun with learning. Whether it’s for pocket money, a school fundraising event, or market day, these projects not only keep kids engaged but also help build life skills like budgeting, marketing, and customer interaction.

Benefits of selling handmade items

Learning to craft and sell can help kids in several ways.

Creativity and self-expression: Making items allows kids to explore their artistic side and express individuality.
Entrepreneurial skills: From calculating costs and setting prices to selling to customers, it’s a hands-on way to develop business acumen.
Confidence building: Seeing someone buy or admire their work boosts kids’ self-esteem.
Family bonding: Many of these craft ideas are family-friendly, giving parents the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with their kids.

With that in mind, here are 50 creative and simple things kids can make and sell.

Crafts kids can make and sell

1. Friendship bracelets

Friendship bracelets are a timeless craft. Kids can use embroidery threads or colorful cords to create bracelets with patterns like chevrons, braids, or twists. They can personalize each bracelet with charms or letter beads to make them extra special. These bracelets are small and affordable, making them ideal for selling at school events or craft fairs.

2. Handmade greeting cards

Using cardstock, markers, stickers, and stamps, kids can design unique greeting cards for birthdays, holidays, or just to say thank you. Adding thoughtful touches like pop-up elements or glitter can make them stand out. Popular designs can be duplicated to sell in bulk.

3. Bath bombs

Kids can mix baking soda, citric acid, essential oils, and food coloring to make bath bombs with fizzy, relaxing effects. Molds in fun shapes like hearts or stars can add creativity. Packaging them in decorative bags or boxes with handwritten labels can appeal to potential buyers who love homemade spa products.

4. Beaded jewelry

With elastic string and colorful or themed beads, kids can create necklaces, bracelets, or even keychains. Adding letter beads allows for a variety of personalization options, such as names or inspirational words. These are simple to make and could be perfect for both kids and adults looking for unique handmade accessories.

5. Painted flower pots

Terracotta pots can be transformed with acrylic paints and sealed for durability. Kids might decorate them with polka dots, animal faces, or vibrant patterns. These pots can be marketed to people who love gardening or home decor and can be paired with a small plant for an added touch.

6. Sugar scrubs

Combining sugar, coconut oil, and essential oils, kids can create luxurious sugar scrubs in scents like lavender, citrus, or vanilla. Adding food coloring for a visual pop and packing them into mason jars with decorative ribbons can give them extra curb appeal for potential buyers.

7. Origami bookmarks

Using colorful paper, kids can fold unique origami bookmarks in shapes like animals, hearts, or abstract designs. Simple and lightweight, these bookmarks are easy to sell at low prices and could appeal to book lovers of all ages. They’re also a great project for kids to practice fine motor skills.

8. Pet accessories

Kids can use fabric to sew collars, bandanas, or tug toys for pets. Using patterns with paw prints, bones, or bright colors can add charm. Since pet owners love spoiling their furry companions, these affordable and practical products are often an easy sell.

9. Slime

Slime remains a favorite among kids. By mixing glue, borax or contact solution, and optional add-ins like glitter, food coloring, or scents, kids can create fun variations. Packaging slime in small containers with fun labels is a way to sell them at school or community events.

10. Tie-dye clothing

Using tie-dye kits and plain t-shirts, sweatpants, socks, or tote bags, kids can create vibrant designs, such as spiral, crumple, or stripe patterns. Tie-dye clothing was popular in the 1970s with more psychedelic designs and has become trendy again recently with more muted colors.

11. Candles

Kids can use silicone molds to craft hand-poured candles in various shapes, while adding scents like lavender, vanilla, or citrus. Keep in mind safety concerns if making candles from hot melted wax, or make sand candles from granulated wax, which removes any burn risk and allows kids to layer colors.

12. Sun-catchers

Sun-catchers can be created using a variety of materials, such as contact paper, colorful beads, string, or painted glass pieces. Kids can design patterns that sparkle in the sunlight, making them perfect for hanging in windows and adding a cheerful, artistic vibe to any room or outdoor space.

13. Mini terrariums

Kids can assemble tiny gardens using jars, pebbles, soil, moss, and small plants like succulents. They can even add little figurines for extra charm. These are trendy because they bring nature indoors and are low-maintenance, making them a good option to sell at craft fairs.

14. Felt ornaments

Using felt sheets, kids can cut out shapes like stars, trees, or animals and sew or glue them together. Add sequins, buttons, or embroidery to make them extra festive. These can sell well during the holidays as cute, handmade decorations.

15. Lip balm

Kids can melt beeswax and coconut oil together, add a little flavoring like peppermint or vanilla, and pour it into small containers. Homemade lip balm is popular because it’s natural, customizable, and perfect for dry lips.

16. Personalized phone cases

Take plain phone cases and transform them with acrylic paints, glitter, stickers, gems, or other fun embellishments. Kids can create custom designs or produce duplicates if they develop a design that is popular with buyers. Make sure to pick cases that fit the most popular phone models currently on the market.

17. Decorated tote bags

With fabric paints, markers, or stencils, kids can turn plain tote bags into vibrant, reusable works of art. They can draw fun patterns, write quotes, or add their favorite characters. Buyers love these eco-friendly, one-of-a-kind totes for shopping or daily use.

18. Painted rocks

Rocks become art with a little acrylic paint and creativity! Kids can paint designs like animals, mandalas, or inspirational quotes. These are perfect as paperweights, garden décor, or small gifts, making them an easy and affordable craft to sell.

19. Customized mugs

Using ceramic paint pens, kids can draw designs, patterns, or even people’s names on plain mugs. Blank mugs come in a variety of colors. Once the designs are complete, bake the mugs in the oven at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, so the paint sets, making them dishwasher-safe.

20. Decorative magnets

Refrigerator magnets can be created in virtually endless variations, whether kids prefer to craft them out of clay and bake them, carve or repurpose wood, or upcycle other items, such as bottle caps. Then, they can attach an adhesive magnet to the back or use glue to attach a non-adhesive one.

21. Button earrings

Kids can repurpose unused buttons by gluing them onto earring posts using strong adhesive. Choosing buttons in unique shapes, colors, or textures allows them to create quirky, one-of-a-kind designs. Button earrings are lightweight, colorful, and easy to customize, making them appealing, affordable accessories.

22. Paper bag puppets

Using paper lunch bags, markers, googly eyes, and craft supplies like yarn or felt, kids can design fun, expressive puppets. They can create animals, characters, or even superheroes. These puppets are perfect for storytelling and imaginative play, making them a simple but charming product.

23. Hair accessories

With fabric scraps, elastic, or ribbons, kids can make stylish hair accessories, like scrunchies, headbands, or ribbon bow clips. Glue guns or basic sewing skills can bring these designs to life. The appeal lies in their versatility, as they can be made in trendy colors or patterns to match outfits.

24. Etched glass jars

Using stencils, etching cream, and old jars, kids can create frosted designs like flowers, stars, or monograms. These jars can be upcycled into candle holders, storage containers, or decorative pieces. Their eco-friendly aspect and personalized touch make them attractive items for environmentally conscious buyers.

25. Stress balls

Kids can make stress balls by filling balloons with flour, rice, or cornstarch, then tying the ends securely. They can decorate the balloons with markers or wrap them in colorful fabric. These stress balls are fun to squish to relieve tension.

26. Mini fairy gardens

Using small pots, pebbles, moss, and tiny figurines, kids can create enchanting fairy gardens. They can add miniature furniture or houses made from twigs and natural materials. These whimsical creations are great for home décor or as gifts for plant and fantasy lovers.

27. Painted coasters

Cork or wooden coasters can be painted with vibrant colors, geometric patterns, or personalized designs using acrylic paints or markers. A layer of varnish can be applied to protect the artwork. These unique, functional pieces are ideal for adding personality to a table setting and make fantastic handmade gifts.

28. Dreamcatchers

Using embroidery hoops, string, beads, and feathers, kids can craft intricate dreamcatchers. They will need to craft a web with string or yarn and attach adornments, which are usually feathers hanging from the bottom of the hoop and said to help good dreams find the sleeping, but they can also be customized. These boho-style decorations are perfect for hanging above beds or as wall art.

29. Clay figurines

Kids can use air-dry or oven-bake clay to sculpt small figurines like animals, characters, or abstract designs. They can paint and seal the figurines for a polished finish. These adorable creations make great collectibles, keychains, or even desk ornaments.

30. Scented sachets

Using small fabric pouches or sewing their own from scrap fabric, kids can fill them with dried lavender, herbs, or essential oil-infused rice. These sachets are perfect for freshening up drawers, closets, or even cars. Their soothing scents and practicality make them popular as thoughtful gifts or relaxing items for home use.

31. Photo frames

Kids can take plain wooden frames and decorate them with paint, stickers, glitter, or even small objects like shells or buttons. Personalizing these frames can make great gifts or decorative items for a variety of occasions.

32. Gingerbread cookies

With holiday-themed cookie cutters and colorful icing, kids can bake and decorate gingerbread cookies in festive designs like snowmen, trees, or stars. Their seasonal charm and delicious taste can make them appealing to holiday shoppers at markets or bake sales.

33. Comic strip magnets

Kids can cut out small sections of old comics, glue them to sturdy surfaces like bottle caps or small tiles, and attach a magnet backing. These trendy and nostalgic magnets are perfect for comic lovers looking to add a fun touch to their fridge or office space.

34. Water bottle art

Using plain reusable water bottles, kids can add designs with paint pens, stickers, or vinyl decals. Personalizing bottles with names or themes makes them practical and eco-friendly gifts, perfect for encouraging sustainability while appealing to buyers.

35. Knit scarves

Older kids with basic knitting skills can create cozy scarves in vibrant colors or patterns. These are ideal for winter markets, as buyers often look for handmade, warm accessories during colder months.

36. Cookie mix jars

Kids can layer dry cookie ingredients (like flour, sugar, and chocolate chips) in mason jars, then add a decorative ribbon and baking instructions. These jars make thoughtful gifts and are perfect for busy people who want a quick and easy way to bake cookies.

37. Paper quilling art

Paper quilling is the art of rolling and shaping strips of colored paper. Kids can form intricate designs like flowers, animals, or abstract patterns. Framing these creations turns them into unique wall art, which could appeal to buyers looking for handmade home décor.

38. DIY soap bars

DIY soap bars require a base of oils, such as coconut and olive oil, combined with a lye solution, which is sodium hydroxide mixed with water. Add scent with essential oils and color before pouring into a mold to set. This option may need parental assistance due to requiring careful measurements and undertaking safety precautions due to the lye.

39. Birdhouses

With simple wooden kits or scraps of wood, kids can assemble and paint birdhouses with creative designs. These functional and decorative items are great for bird lovers looking to add charm to their gardens or patios.

40. Mason jar lanterns

Kids can decorate mason jars with paint, lace, or decals, then add fairy lights or small candles inside to create glowing lanterns. These DIY lanterns make beautiful centerpieces or outdoor décor, appealing to buyers seeking unique lighting options.

41. Upcycled denim accessories

Kids can repurpose old denim jeans or jackets by cutting them into smaller pieces and sewing them into bags, wallets, or coasters. Adding fun embellishments like patches, embroidery, or fabric paint makes each item unique. Their sustainability and trendy, rugged look can make them appealing to potential buyers.

42. Charm bracelets

Kids can craft unique charm bracelets using a variety of beads, strings, and themed charms to match different hobbies, interests, or styles. These handmade treasures are not only fun to create but also versatile and meaningful, making them appealing as thoughtful gifts or cherished keepsakes.

43. Hand-painted sneakers

Transform plain white sneakers into wearable masterpieces. Kids can use fabric paint or permanent markers to create vibrant designs, from bold patterns to playful characters or abstract art. These one-of-a-kind shoes stand out as personalized, stylish additions to any outfit.

44. Mini scrapbook kits

Kids can curate mini scrapbook kits by assembling small papers, stickers, washi tape, and other crafting essentials. These kits inspire creativity and are perfect for memory-keeping or heartfelt gifts, appealing to anyone who loves sentimental and hands-on projects.

45. Plant holders

With simple macrame techniques or upcycled jars, kids can craft decorative plant holders that are eco-friendly and charming. These handmade pieces provide plant lovers with unique, stylish ways to display greenery while adding a personal touch to any space.

46. Painted journals

Plain journals get a creative upgrade when kids decorate them with paint, stencils, or stickers. These customized covers transform ordinary notebooks into special, eye-catching treasures that writers and dreamers will cherish.

47. DIY keychains

Kids can create delightful keychains using materials like beads, polymer clay, or fabric scraps. These small, affordable accessories combine practicality with unique designs, potentially making them popular with buyers seeking fun and functional items.

48. Watercolor postcards

By painting simple, beautiful designs on sturdy cardstock, kids can craft handmade watercolor postcards. These artistic creations are perfect for sending heartfelt notes or framing as decorative art pieces, offering a personal and creative touch.

49. Holiday wreaths

Mini holiday wreaths, made with ribbons, faux greenery, ornaments, and circular bases, are festive and versatile decorations. Kids can craft these cheerful designs, which are in high demand during the holidays, making them ideal for gifting or selling.

50. Fabric bookmarks

Kids can transform fabric scraps into cozy bookmarks with decorative stitching or tassels. These soft, durable bookmarks are not only practical but also add a handmade charm that readers love to pair with their favorite books.

How to get started

Setting up a small-scale business for your kids doesn’t require much — just supplies and enthusiasm. Encourage them to budget for materials and decide on reasonable pricing. If selling online, platforms like Etsy or Facebook Marketplace are great starting points. For a more hands-on experience, consider local craft fairs or school market days where they can meet customers face-to-face.

How to help your kids manage their hard-earned cash

Once your child starts earning money, consider how to help them manage it. Greenlight offers a debit card and app designed specifically for kids, with parental controls and financial education built-in. With Greenlight, parents can teach their kids financial responsibility by setting spending limits, assigning chores for allowance, and monitoring all spending activities. Try Greenlight now.

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.