The tween years can be tricky when it comes to crafts. Suddenly the simple cutting-and-sticking projects that kept them busy at six or seven don’t quite cut it anymore. But crafty kids aged 8 to 12 still love making things — they just want projects with a bit more challenge, a bit more independence, and (ideally) a cool factor their friends will be jealous of.
We’ve pulled together 12 more funky craft ideas for tweens that tick all those boxes. Some are quick weekend projects, others are the kind of thing they can disappear into for an entire rainy afternoon. All of them are screen-free, hands-on, and genuinely fun to make.
You may also enjoy: Get Creative! 12 Funky Crafts for Kids Aged 8-12 yrs
Quick look — the 12 crafts in this list:
- Papier Mache Pants Pen Holder
- Marshmallow Shooter
- Button Art
- Crystal Names
- Unicorn Poop Slime
- Tie Dye Beach Towel
- Build a Lego Candy Dispenser
- Make a Snow Globe
- Buggles
- Crochet Cat
- Rainbow Paper Lanterns
- Galaxy Print T-Shirt
Crafts for Kids and Tweens
#1. Papier Mache Pants Pen Holder
This one is genuinely clever — a craft that’s fun to make and actually useful afterwards. This idea from Lunktiks uses a balloon to build the shape, and it’s a great way to teach your tween the basics of papier mache. Once they’ve got the hang of it, they can design their own version from scratch.
You may also enjoy: How to Make a Funky Pen Holder From Paper
#2. Marshmallow Shooter
All you need is a balloon, a disposable cup and some duct tape to build this Marshmallow Shooter from Discover Explore Learn. It’s ready-made for a friendly shoot-out with siblings or friends — set up a target and see who can get the best score.
You may also enjoy: Easy Balloon and Button Craft Ideas for Kids
#3. Button Art
This button art canvas from Simply Designing is a lovely one for creative tweens. Paint an outline onto a canvas, then glue on buttons of different shapes, colours and sizes until the design is complete. They also make a really nice personalised gift for grandparents or friends.
You may also enjoy: Fun Guaranteed with these 22 Easy Painting Ideas for Kids
#4. Crystal Names
Crafts and a little science together — always a win. These crystal names from Playdough to Plato let your tween grow real, sparkling crystals over their own name, or a sibling’s or friend’s name as a gift.
You may also enjoy: Simple Science Experiments for Kids to Try at Home
#5. Unicorn Poop Slime
Any craft with “slime,” “poop” or “unicorn” in the title is guaranteed tween approval — this one has all three. Head to Mom Dot for the full how-to on making this rainbow-coloured slime.
You may also enjoy: How To Get Slime Off Clothes, Carpet, Sofa, Hair…
#6. Tie Dye Beach Towel
Made with a plain white beach towel and some fabric dye, these watermelon tie-dye beach towels from Having Fun at Home are a lovely summer project that both boys and girls enjoy. Once they’ve mastered the technique, see what other tie-dye patterns they can invent.
You may also enjoy: 8 Stunning Shell Crafts for Kids to Make and Keep
#7. Build a Lego Candy Dispenser
Most houses have a stash of LEGO somewhere, and tweens haven’t necessarily outgrown it — they’ve just outgrown the baby builds. This homemade LEGO candy dispenser from Frugal Fun comes with full building instructions and is a genuinely satisfying build.
You may also enjoy: 50+ Free LEGO Instructions: Learn How To Be a Master Builder!
#8. Make a Snow Globe
Using small glass jars and a handful of ingredients, your tween can make their own snow globe, like these from Craftaholics Anonymous. They’re lovely as homemade gifts or party favours too.
You may also enjoy: Get Creative with 15 Wonderful Winter Crafts for Kids
#9. Buggles
These little Buggle Gems from Making Life Blissful are quick to put together and make cute, customisable gifts. Add a small magnet to the back and they double up as fun fridge magnets.
You may also enjoy: 20 Super Spring Crafts for Kids to Create
#10. Crochet Cat
Whether your tween is a total beginner or has crocheted before, this rainbow cat is a fun project to try. Get the free pattern for this colourful crocheted cat from The Green Dragonfly. Beginners can start with a single colour and work up to a full rainbow version as their confidence grows.
You may also enjoy: 6 Easy Knitting Projects for Kids and Beginners
#11. Rainbow Paper Lanterns
If your tween is keen to give their bedroom a refresh, these upcycled paper lanterns from The Swell Designer are a fun, low-cost way to do it — and a great chance for them to put their own stamp on their space.
You may also enjoy: 28 Wonderful Rainbow Inspired Activities for Kids to Do
#12. Galaxy Print T-Shirt
Create a genuinely out-of-this-world t-shirt using a dark tee, some bleach, fabric paint, an empty spray bottle and a paintbrush. This idea from By Hand London makes a brilliant project for space fans and Star Wars fans alike.
You may also enjoy: 50 Brilliant Ideas for Art & Crafts for Kids, worth the Mess!
Frequently Asked Questions
What age group are these crafts suitable for?
These projects are designed with tweens aged 8 to 12 in mind — they’re a step up from simpler kids’ crafts and give older children more independence and a bit more challenge.
Do I need special equipment or craft skills?
No. Most of these projects use everyday household items or inexpensive craft supplies, and step-by-step guidance is linked for each one. A couple, like the crochet cat, are easier with some adult supervision the first time round.
Are these good rainy day activities?
Yes — they’re ideal for a wet afternoon when screens have lost their appeal. Most can be done indoors with items you likely already have at home.
Can these crafts be made as gifts?
Definitely. Several of these — the button art, snow globes, buggles and crochet cat in particular — make lovely handmade gifts for family or friends.
Loved These Crafty Kids Ideas?
If your tween enjoyed these, take a browse through our wider collection of craft ideas for kids of all ages — there’s always something new to try on a rainy day. Save this article now so you’ve got a ready-made list next time you need a screen-free activity in a hurry.
Have your say! Have you tried any of these funky crafts for kids? Leave a comment below and let us know — we’d love to hear from you!
More Craft Ideas You’ll Love
- Get Creative! 12 Funky Crafts for Kids Aged 8-12 yrs
- 50 Brilliant Ideas for Art & Crafts for Kids, Worth the Mess!
- 20 Super Spring Crafts for Kids to Create
- Get Creative with 15 Wonderful Winter Crafts for Kids
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