Summer Fun Starts at Goodwill: 5 Easy DIYs for Kids Using Thrifted Treasures
School’s out, and if you’re a parent, you’re probably looking for screen-free ways to keep your kids entertained. The good news? You don’t need a trip to a craft store or a huge budget to make something magical. With a little imagination and a quick trip to your local Goodwill, you can spark hours of creative fun right at home.
These Goodwill crafts for kids are perfect for summer afternoons, birthday party activities, or even rainy-day boredom busters. Plus, they’re easy to personalize and require only simple, low-cost supplies—many of which you can find secondhand.
Here are 5 fun and easy DIY for kids ideas to try this summer—plus bonus tips to expand each project!
1. Backyard Fort Adventure
What You’ll Need:
🪢 Thrifted quilts or blankets
📦 Wooden crates or chairs
🧵 Twine or rope
How-To:
Build your own backyard hideaway using colorful thrifted quilts or blankets as tent coverings. Drape them over stacked crates, chairs, or even a clothesline. Let kids help build their dream fort and bring in books, flashlights, and pillows for a cozy vibe.
Bonus Inspiration:
- Search Goodwill for string lights or battery-powered lamps for nighttime fun.
- Look for secondhand sheets to create a color-themed or “pirate ship” fort.
- Add a chalkboard or thrifted mirror inside for a secret clubhouse feel.
2. DIY Puppet Show
What You’ll Need:
🧤 Thrifted gloves or socks
🔘 Buttons, ribbon, felt scraps
🖍️ Glue or fabric-safe adhesive
How-To:
Turn old gloves or socks into unique puppets! Let kids pick fun buttons for eyes and cut out felt shapes to create ears, hats, or hair. Once dried, put on a show!
Bonus Inspiration:
- Create a cardboard puppet stage using an old Goodwill box and paint.
- Visit the book section at Goodwill and turn favorite characters into puppet stars.
- Make themed puppets (animals, superheroes, aliens—you name it!).
3. Picture Perfect Frames
What You’ll Need:
🖼️ Thrifted photo frames
🎨 Acrylic paint, beads, stickers
📷 Printed summer memories
How-To:
Decorate old frames with paint, stickers, or glued-on shells and beads. Then, insert your favorite summer photo to make a personalized keepsake.
Bonus Inspiration:
- Make a frame gallery wall in the kids’ room with different colors or themes.
- Turn small frames into dry-erase boards by inserting blank white paper behind the glass.
- Try making a memory frame with ticket stubs or pressed flowers.
4. Whimsical Garden Decor
What You’ll Need:
🪴 Thrifted vases, planters, or tea cups
🌈 Paint, glitter, or natural items
🧚 Mini fairy figurines (optional)
How-To:
Give old planters new life by turning them into fairy houses or personalized pots. Use colorful paint and fun decorations to create magical garden art.
Bonus Inspiration:
- Look for small figurines or ceramic animals at Goodwill to add to your garden scene.
- Use old kitchenware (colanders, teapots) as quirky planters.
- Create garden labels with thrifted silverware and paint.
5. T-Shirt Design Studio
What You’ll Need:
👕 Plain thrifted T-shirts
🎨 Fabric paint, sponges, stencils
✂️ Optional: embellishments like iron-on patches
How-To:
Let your child’s imagination run wild by designing their own shirt! Use sponges or stencils to stamp patterns, write names, or paint abstract art on secondhand tees.
Bonus Inspiration:
- Try tie-dyeing with thrifted shirts and natural dyes like berries or turmeric.
- Turn finished shirts into bags or pillows once outgrown.
- Host a T-shirt fashion show with siblings or friends!
Why Goodwill Is Your Go-To for Summer DIY Supplies
Goodwill isn’t just for clothes—it’s a treasure trove for crafting! By shopping secondhand, you’re not only saving money but also teaching kids the value of creativity, recycling, and sustainability. Every purchase supports local job training and community programs, making your summer projects even more meaningful.
So next time your little ones say, “I’m bored,” grab your tote and head to your neighborhood Goodwill. With a little imagination, you’ll turn a pile of thrifted finds into an unforgettable summer.
Ready to start crafting?
Find your nearest store and discover even more Goodwill crafts for kids perfect for summer fun. These easy DIY for kids projects are fun, affordable, and make memories that last a lifetime.