10+ Modern DIY Arts And Crafts

Paper Flowers

I’ve always had a soft spot for paper flowers because they bring such instant cheer without needing sunlight or water. Honestly, the first time I made one, it looked more like a crumpled ball than a rose, but over time I figured out that the trick is in layering and shaping. I usually grab old colored papers or even gift wraps lying around, cut them into petals, and then glue them one by one around a small rolled piece. Sometimes I even add a bit of green paper for leaves—it makes the whole thing look surprisingly real.

To be fair, paper flowers have saved me more than once. I remember decorating for a last-minute birthday party, and instead of stressing about real flowers, I made a whole bunch of these. They turned out so pretty that people actually asked me where I bought them. In my opinion, that’s the beauty of this craft—it’s simple, forgiving, and always looks thoughtful.

Clay Pot Bird Feeder

Now this one’s a project I adore because it connects crafting with a bit of nature. I took an old clay pot once, flipped it upside down, added a saucer on top, and suddenly—bam—a bird feeder! It was such a satisfying moment seeing sparrows nibble from something I made with my own hands. If you’ve got a spare pot, some rope, and a bit of paint, you’re basically good to go. I love painting mine in bright, bold colors so it adds a splash of charm to the garden.

Honestly, the best part is watching the birds come around every morning. I’ve found that placing the feeder near a quiet corner works best, so the birds feel safe. One time, I even spotted a tiny squirrel stealing seeds, and instead of being annoyed, I couldn’t stop laughing. These little moments make the clay pot feeder one of my favorite crafts—it feels alive.

Recycled Magazine Coasters

Recycled magazine coasters are my go-to craft when I want something fun but practical. I started making them one rainy afternoon when I had a stack of old magazines and nothing much to do. All I did was cut strips, roll them tightly, and glue them into little spirals. At first, they looked a bit wobbly, but once I layered on some varnish, they became sturdy and surprisingly stylish. Plus, I love that no two coasters ever look the same—the colors and prints always mix differently.

In my opinion, these coasters are such a conversation starter. I once gifted a set to a friend, and she kept showing them off whenever guests came over. To be fair, it’s such a budget-friendly craft too—literally free if you already have magazines lying around. And honestly, there’s something so satisfying about turning what would have been trash into something useful. It feels clever, creative, and eco-friendly all at once.

Tin Can Lanterns

These tin can lanterns make a beautiful addition to your home décor or outdoor garden, especially for evening gatherings.

Materials Used:

• Empty tin cans
• Hammer and nail
• Tea light candles
• Paint (optional)

Steps:

1. Clean and dry the tin can thoroughly.
2. Use a hammer and nail to create small holes in the can, forming a design or pattern of your choice.
3. If you want, paint the outside of the can to add color before adding the holes.
4. Place a small tea light candle inside the tin can and light it. The holes will let the light shine through, creating a lantern effect.

Popsicle Stick Photo Frame

Creating your own photo frame from popsicle sticks is a fun and easy craft project that can be customized to fit your style.

Materials Used:

• Popsicle sticks
• Hot glue gun or glue
• Paint or markers
• A photo to frame
• Decorative items (ribbons, buttons, etc.)

Steps:

1. Lay out five popsicle sticks to form a rectangular shape. Glue them together at the edges.
2. Cut additional popsicle sticks to form the sides of the frame.
3. Once the basic frame is glued, paint or decorate it with markers, buttons, or any other embellishments you prefer.
4. Once the frame is dry, attach your photo to the back of the frame using glue or tape.
5. You can also create a stand by gluing a popsicle stick at the back in an “L” shape.

Paper Mâché Bowls

Paper mâché bowls are versatile and can be used for storage or as a decorative piece for your home.

Materials Used:

• Newspaper or tissue paper
• Flour and water (for paste)
• Balloon
• Paint (optional)

Steps:

1. Inflate a balloon to your desired size to form the base of your bowl.
2. Tear newspaper or tissue paper into strips.
3. Mix flour and water to create a paste. Dip the paper strips into the paste and apply them over the balloon, layering until you have a thick coat.
4. Allow the paper mâché to dry completely (overnight is ideal).
5. Once dry, pop the balloon and remove it from the bowl.
6. Paint and decorate the bowl as desired.

Yarn Wall Hanging

A yarn wall hanging can add a cozy and colorful vibe to any room. This craft is perfect for beginners and those looking for a quick, decorative project.

Materials Used:

• Yarn in different colors
• Wooden dowel or stick
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Cut several strands of yarn to your desired length.
2. Tie the yarn to a wooden dowel using a simple knot, ensuring the strands hang evenly.
3. Continue tying additional strands of yarn to the dowel, layering colors and lengths to create a pattern or texture.
4. Once all yarn is tied, trim the ends evenly to create a neat, uniform look.
5. Hang your yarn wall hanging on the wall using string or hooks.

Button Jewelry

Button jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, is an eco-friendly craft using buttons that can give you unique, handmade accessories.

Materials Used:

• Assorted buttons
• Jewelry wire
• Earring hooks or bracelet clasps
• Needle and thread

Steps:

1. Choose buttons of various sizes and colors to create your desired design.
2. Thread the buttons onto the jewelry wire, layering them to form a necklace or bracelet.
3. Use needle and thread to attach smaller buttons to earring hooks for unique button earrings.
4. Secure the ends of the wire with clasps or loops as needed for bracelets and necklaces.

Fabric Scrap Bookmark

Using fabric scraps to create a bookmark is a quick and easy craft that can also serve as a lovely gift.

Materials Used:

• Fabric scraps
• Scissors
• Ribbon or string
• Glue or sewing machine

Steps:

1. Cut the fabric scraps into a rectangular shape, the size of a standard bookmark.
2. Fold the edges of the fabric to prevent fraying, then glue or sew them down.
3. Add a small piece of ribbon or string at the top for a decorative touch.
4. If desired, you can add embellishments like buttons, embroidery, or appliqué designs.

Upcycled T-Shirt Tote Bag

Transform an old t-shirt into a stylish and reusable tote bag with this easy DIY craft.

Materials Used:

• Old t-shirt
• Scissors
• Needle and thread (optional)

Steps:

1. Lay the t-shirt flat and cut off the sleeves and neckline to create the bag’s opening.
2. Cut the bottom of the t-shirt to your desired bag size.
3. Turn the t-shirt inside out and sew the bottom together, leaving a small seam.
4. You can also use fabric glue if you don’t want to sew. Once the seams are secured, turn the t-shirt right-side out.
5. Your tote bag is now ready to use!

Salt Dough Ornaments

Salt dough ornaments are easy to make and perfect for gifts or holiday decorations.

Materials Used:

• 1 cup of flour
• 1/2 cup of salt
• 1/4 cup of water
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Paint (optional)

Steps:

1. Mix the flour, salt, and water in a bowl to form a dough.
2. Roll out the dough with a rolling pin to your desired thickness.
3. Use cookie cutters to shape the dough into ornaments.
4. Use a straw or toothpick to make a hole at the top of each ornament for hanging.
5. Bake the ornaments at 250°F (120°C) for about 2 hours until hard.
6. Once cooled, you can paint and decorate your ornaments.

 Rock Painting

Rock painting is a simple yet creative way to turn everyday stones into little works of art, perfect for gift-giving or decoration.

Materials Used:

• Smooth rocks
• Acrylic paints
• Brushes
• Clear acrylic sealer

Steps:

1. Wash and dry the rocks thoroughly.
2. Paint the rocks with acrylic paints, creating any design or pattern you like.
3. Allow the paint to dry completely.
4. Optionally, add a layer of clear acrylic sealer to make the design more durable.

Embroidery Hoop Art

Embroidery hoop art is a lovely way to display handmade designs on fabric, creating beautiful and personalized wall art.

Materials Used:

• Embroidery hoop
• Fabric
• Embroidery thread
• Needle

Steps:

1. Place the fabric into the embroidery hoop and tighten it.
2. Use embroidery thread to create a design or pattern on the fabric.
3. Once you’ve completed the embroidery, trim any excess fabric and secure the edges to the back of the hoop.
4. Hang the hoop on the wall or display it as desired.

Macramé Plant Hangers

Macramé plant hangers are a trendy and functional way to display your plants, all while adding a touch of boho style to your space.

Materials Used:

• Macramé cord
• Scissors
• Wooden ring (optional)

Steps:

1. Cut several lengths of macramé cord.
2. Fold the cords in half and attach them to the wooden ring (if using).
3. Begin knotting the cords together using various macramé knots to form a decorative hanger for your plant.
4. Once the hanger is complete, attach a pot and hang your plant.

 Button Art

Button art is a creative and easy way to use up leftover buttons and create a decorative piece of art.

Materials Used:

• Assorted buttons
• Canvas or sturdy cardboard
• Glue
• Paint (optional)

Steps:

1. Start by sketching the design you want to create on the canvas or cardboard.
2. Begin gluing the buttons to the surface, filling in your design with different colored buttons.
3. Once dry, frame the artwork or hang it as-is on the wall.

 Paper Plate Masks

Create fun, custom masks for kids or costumes using simple materials like paper plates and craft supplies.

Materials Used:

• Paper plates
• Scissors
• Paint, markers, or crayons
• String
• Glue

Steps:

1. Cut out eye holes in the paper plate to fit your face.
2. Paint or decorate the mask with markers, paint, or crayons.
3. Once the decoration is complete, punch holes on either side of the mask and tie string through them.
4. Wear the mask and enjoy!

Pom Pom Garland

Pom pom garlands are a fun and colorful decoration for parties, birthdays, or just to brighten up your space.

Materials Used:

• Yarn in various colors
• Scissors
• Needle and thread

Steps:

1. Make pom poms by wrapping yarn around your fingers, tying the center with a string, and cutting the loops.
2. Trim the pom poms to your desired shape and size.
3. Thread a needle with a long piece of string, and attach the pom poms to it, spacing them out evenly.
4. Hang the garland wherever you need some color!

 Milk Carton Birdhouse

Transform an old milk carton into a birdhouse, creating a fun way to attract birds to your yard.

Materials Used:

• Empty milk carton
• Paint
• Scissors
• String

Steps:

1. Rinse and dry the milk carton thoroughly.
2. Cut out a small hole on the side of the carton for the birds to enter.
3. Decorate the birdhouse with paint or markers.
4. Punch a hole at the top of the carton and attach a string to hang it outside.

Fabric Scrap Pillow

Upcycle fabric scraps to create a unique, cozy pillow that adds character to any room.

Materials Used:

• Fabric scraps
• Needle and thread or sewing machine
• Pillow stuffing

Steps:

1. Cut fabric scraps into squares or shapes.
2. Arrange the pieces in a patchwork pattern.
3. Sew the fabric pieces together to create one large piece.
4. Fold the fabric into a pillow shape, leaving one side open.
5. Stuff the pillow with stuffing and sew the final side closed.

Painted Rock Magnets

Create personalized magnets from painted rocks to add color to your refrigerator or magnetic boards.

Materials Used:

• Small smooth rocks
• Paint
• Magnets
• Hot glue gun

Steps:

1. Paint your rocks with unique designs, patterns, or even simple pictures.
2. Let the paint dry completely.
3. Glue a small magnet to the back of each rock.
4. Stick your new rock magnets to any magnetic surface.

Mason Jar Snow Globe

Turn a mason jar into a charming snow globe, a perfect holiday or wintertime decoration.

Materials Used:

• Mason jar with lid
• Small figurines
• Glitter or fake snow
• Hot glue gun
• Water

Steps:

1. Glue your figurine(s) to the inside of the mason jar lid.
2. Fill the jar with water and glitter (or fake snow).
3. Screw the lid onto the jar tightly.
4. Shake the jar gently to see the snow fall around the figurine.

Paper Straws Wreath

A paper straw wreath is a festive and colorful way to decorate for holidays or special occasions.

Materials Used:

• Paper straws
• Wreath form (foam or cardboard)
• Hot glue gun

Steps:

1. Cut the paper straws into small pieces, if necessary.
2. Attach the pieces to the wreath form with hot glue, layering them to cover the form entirely.
3. Decorate with other embellishments, such as ribbons or small ornaments.

T-shirt Rug

A t-shirt rug is a great way to upcycle old shirts into a cozy and practical mat for your home.

Materials Used:

• Old t-shirts
• Scissors
• Crochet hook

Steps:

1. Cut the t-shirts into long strips.
2. Use a crochet hook to weave the strips together into a rug.
3. Keep adding strips and crocheting until the rug is the desired size.

Snowman Sock

Make a cute snowman using an old sock! It’s a perfect craft to do with kids during the winter months.

Materials Used:

• White sock
• Rice or cotton stuffing
• Ribbon, buttons, and felt (for decoration)

Steps:

1. Fill the sock with rice or cotton to form the snowman’s body.
2. Tie off the top to create a head and use a ribbon to tie around the neck.
3. Use buttons to create eyes and buttons on the body, and felt for the nose and scarf.

Wooden Spoon Puppets

Wooden spoon puppets are a simple and imaginative way to create characters for storytelling.

Materials Used:

• Wooden spoons
• Paint, markers, or fabric
• Glue
• Yarn or string for hair

Steps:

1. Paint the wooden spoons with faces or characters.
2. Add yarn or string for hair, and use fabric or felt to make clothes.
3. Once decorated, use the puppets in a show or as fun props.

Flower Pressing

Flower pressing is an ancient craft that preserves the beauty of flowers and can be used to create beautiful art.

Materials Used:

• Fresh flowers
• Heavy books
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Place the flowers between two pieces of parchment paper.
2. Put the paper with flowers in between heavy books to press the flowers flat.
3. Leave them for a few days or until the flowers are fully pressed.
4. Use the pressed flowers for greeting cards, frames, or scrapbooks.

Bubble Wrap Prints

Bubble wrap prints are a fun way to create textured artwork that is both fun and tactile.

Materials Used:

• Bubble wrap
• Paint
• Paper

Steps:

1. Cut a piece of bubble wrap to the size of your paper.
2. Paint the bubble wrap with bright colors.
3. Press the painted bubble wrap onto a piece of paper to make prints, and then peel it off for a textured effect.

Recycled Bottle Planter

Turn an old plastic bottle into a planter for small plants or herbs.

Materials Used:

• Plastic bottles
• Scissors
• Soil and small plant or seeds
• Paint or decorative tape

Steps:

1. Cut the plastic bottle in half to form a planter.
2. Paint or decorate the outside of the bottle to make it more attractive.
3. Add soil and plant your small plant or seeds in the bottle.
4. Water and place in a sunny location for growth.

Decorative Pencil Holder

Transform a tin can or other container into a beautiful pencil holder for your desk or workspace.

Materials Used:

• Empty tin can or container
• Decorative paper or fabric
• Glue

Steps:

1. Clean the tin can thoroughly.
2. Cut decorative paper or fabric to fit around the can.
3. Glue the paper or fabric to the can, making sure it’s snug and secure.
4. Use the holder for pencils, pens, or other small items.

Recycled CD Mosaics

Recycled CDs can be used to create a shiny, colorful mosaic piece of art.

Materials Used:

• Old CDs
• Scissors
• Glue
• Cardboard or canvas for the base

Steps:

1. Cut the CDs into small pieces using scissors.
2. Arrange the pieces on a piece of cardboard or canvas, creating a mosaic design.
3. Glue the pieces down once you’re happy with the layout.
4. Allow the glue to dry, and display your shiny art