23 Summer Crafts for Adults to Make Your Outdoor Space Shine
Summer is the perfect time to get creative and add a personal touch to your outdoor spaces. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your back porch decor or bring some flair to your patio, these 23 fun and easy summer crafts for adults will help you create a charming and cozy space. Grab your supplies, gather your friends, and get crafting!
1. Painted Terracotta Pots
Transform ordinary terracotta pots into colorful and unique planters with just a little paint. This simple yet effective craft is perfect for adding pops of color to your garden, back porch, or even indoor spaces. Choose acrylic paint, and feel free to experiment with geometric patterns, floral designs, or abstract art.
The beauty of this craft lies in its versatility—you can match the color scheme of your modern back porch ideas or go bold with bright hues for a playful touch. Once painted, seal the pots with a waterproof sealant to ensure they hold up through summer rain showers. Pair your new pots with succulents, herbs, or vibrant flowers for a refreshing outdoor look.
Painted terracotta pots are also an excellent way to recycle old pots and give them new life. You can even get creative by using stencils, sponges, or tape to create intricate designs. The result is a personalized planter that stands out in your outdoor living space.
2. Macramé Plant Hangers
Add a touch of boho-chic to your outdoor decor with macramé plant hangers. Macramé has made a comeback, and these hangers are not only functional but also serve as beautiful art pieces. Whether you’re hanging them from your porch ceiling or using them to display indoor plants, macramé hangers can elevate the aesthetic of any space.
This craft involves learning a few simple knots, such as square knots and half-hitch knots, which are used to create the intricate designs. You can customize the hangers with different rope colors and bead accents to fit your patio decor. Not only do they look great, but they also free up floor space, making them ideal for small outdoor living areas.
For a modern touch, use natural fibers like cotton or jute and pair them with sleek, minimalist planters. If you’re feeling adventurous, try creating a two-tiered plant hanger for an added wow factor on your back porch.
3. DIY Outdoor Pillows
Why settle for store-bought outdoor pillows when you can make your own? DIY outdoor pillows allow you to choose fabrics that match your style and color scheme while ensuring durability for the elements. Opt for weather-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella or use fabric sealant to make regular fabric water-resistant.
Creating these pillows is a straightforward sewing project, even for beginners. You can experiment with different sizes, shapes, and patterns to create a custom look for your outdoor seating area. Bold stripes, tropical prints, or solid colors—whatever your vision, you can bring it to life with a little creativity.
To make them extra cozy, stuff the pillows with outdoor-friendly filling like polyester, which won’t absorb water or mildew. The result? A stylish, comfortable seating arrangement that’s perfect for lounging in the summer sun.
4. Pallet Wood Coffee Table
Upcycling wooden pallets into outdoor furniture is an eco-friendly and budget-conscious way to decorate your porch or patio. A pallet wood coffee table can add rustic charm to your space, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. You can leave the wood raw for a natural, weathered look, or sand it down and stain it for a more polished finish.
To build the table, you’ll need a couple of pallets, screws, and a little elbow grease. Stack two pallets on top of each other, secure them with screws, and add caster wheels if you want the table to be mobile. You can also add a glass top or use wood filler to smooth out the surface.
This versatile table is not only a functional piece of furniture but also a conversation starter. Pair it with modern patio furniture for a contemporary look, or keep it rustic with some mismatched outdoor seating for a cozy, lived-in feel.
5. Seashell Wind Chimes
If you love the soothing sounds of wind chimes and the beach, why not combine the two by making seashell wind chimes? Collect seashells during your next beach trip, or purchase some from a craft store. You can also add driftwood, small beads, and other coastal treasures to complete the look.
To make your wind chime, drill small holes into each seashell and string them onto fishing line or twine. Attach them to a piece of driftwood, and your coastal-inspired wind chime is ready to hang on your back porch. Every breeze will bring a gentle tinkling sound, transporting you to a tranquil seaside getaway.
This project is perfect for summer and adds a whimsical, beachy vibe to your outdoor space. It’s also a great way to showcase your seashell collection!
6. Painted Garden Stones
Source
Brighten up your garden or outdoor pathways with painted garden stones. This craft is simple, fun, and a great way to get creative with patterns, colors, and designs. Choose smooth stones, and use acrylic paint to create colorful patterns like mandalas, animals, or inspirational quotes.
Garden stones can also serve a practical purpose by marking garden rows, labeling plants, or serving as stepping stones in your yard. You can seal the painted stones with a weatherproof sealer to ensure the designs stay intact, even through rain and sunshine.
Painting stones is an enjoyable activity for adults and can also be a fun group craft project. It allows you to infuse a little personality into your garden, making it a welcoming space for you and your guests.
7. DIY Citronella Candles
Source
Keep mosquitoes at bay while adding a touch of ambiance to your outdoor space with DIY citronella candles. Citronella oil is a natural insect repellent, and these candles are easy to make at home. You’ll need candle wax, wicks, and citronella essential oil, along with mason jars or other containers to pour the candles into.
Simply melt the wax, stir in the citronella oil, and pour the mixture into your chosen containers. Once the wax has hardened, your candles are ready to use. You can decorate the jars with ribbon, twine, or even paint to match your outdoor decor.
These candles not only serve a functional purpose but also add a cozy, warm glow to your summer evenings. Place them on tables, around seating areas, or along pathways for both light and bug protection.
8. Fabric Scrap Bunting
Source
Bunting is a timeless decoration that adds a festive and cheerful touch to any space. For a summer craft project, why not make your own using fabric scraps? This is a great way to use up leftover fabric from other projects while adding a fun, decorative element to your outdoor area.
Cut the fabric into triangles or other shapes, and sew or glue them onto a length of ribbon or twine. Hang the bunting across your porch, fence, or even between trees in your yard. You can mix and match different colors and patterns to create a look that’s uniquely yours.
Fabric scrap bunting is easy to make and can be customized for any occasion, from summer BBQs to garden parties. It’s a budget-friendly craft that brings a pop of color and charm to your outdoor living space.
9. DIY Outdoor Lanterns
Source
Create a magical atmosphere for your outdoor gatherings with DIY outdoor lanterns. These lanterns can be made using mason jars, glass bottles, or tin cans, making them a great upcycling project. For mason jar lanterns, simply place a tea light or battery-operated candle inside, and you have an instant glow.
If you’re using tin cans, you can create patterns by punching holes into the cans with a nail and hammer. Once lit, the light will shine through the holes, casting beautiful patterns onto your outdoor surfaces. You can hang these lanterns from trees, place them on tables, or line your walkway with them.
Outdoor lanterns add a soft, romantic glow to your summer evenings and are perfect for setting the mood at outdoor dinner parties or quiet nights on the patio.
10. Clay Leaf Impressions
Source
Nature-inspired crafts are always a hit, and clay leaf impressions are no exception. For this project, you’ll need air-dry clay, leaves from your garden, and some basic sculpting tools. Roll out the clay, press a leaf into the surface, and carefully remove it to leave an imprint. Once the clay dries, you can paint the leaf impression in your favorite colors.
These clay leaves can be used as decorative items around your garden or porch, or you can string them together to make a garland. You can also use them as coasters, wall art, or even small bowls by shaping the clay around a bowl while it dries.
Clay leaf impressions are a great way to bring a bit of nature indoors or onto your porch, creating a rustic, earthy vibe in your outdoor decor.
11. Wine Cork Coasters
Source
If you’re a wine lover, chances are you’ve collected quite a few corks over time. Instead of letting them go to waste, why not turn them into functional and stylish wine cork coasters? This craft is easy to do and makes a great addition to your outdoor table setting.
To create the coasters, simply cut the corks in half lengthwise and glue them together in a circular or square pattern. You can arrange them in a variety of designs, depending on your preference. Once glued, trim the edges, and your coasters are ready to use.
Wine cork coasters are not only eco-friendly, but they also add a rustic touch to your outdoor dining area. Plus, they’re durable and can handle the summer heat, making them a practical and stylish craft
project.
12. Woven Rope Doormat
Source
Give your guests a warm welcome with a handmade woven rope doormat. This craft project is perfect for adding a nautical or rustic vibe to your outdoor entryway. You’ll need thick rope, scissors, and some basic knot-tying skills.
Start by cutting the rope into several lengths and weaving them together in a simple over-under pattern. You can secure the ends with hot glue or sew them together for a cleaner finish. The result is a sturdy, durable doormat that adds texture and charm to your outdoor space.
Woven rope doormats are not only functional but also add a touch of handmade style to your porch or patio. They’re perfect for wiping off sandy feet after a day at the beach or for adding a cozy, welcoming feel to your entryway.
13. Stenciled Outdoor Rug
Source
Upgrade your outdoor living area with a DIY stenciled rug. Outdoor rugs can be expensive, but with this craft project, you can create your own for a fraction of the cost. Choose a plain outdoor rug or mat, some outdoor fabric paint, and a stencil in a design you love.
Simply place the stencil on the rug and use a foam brush to apply the paint. You can create a pattern all over the rug or focus on specific areas for a more subtle look. Once the paint dries, you’ll have a custom rug that adds style and comfort to your outdoor space.
Stenciled rugs are a great way to personalize your patio or porch, and you can match the colors and patterns to your existing decor. Plus, they’re easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical addition to your summer outdoor setup.
14. Shell Mosaic Stepping Stones
Source
Add a beachy vibe to your garden with shell mosaic stepping stones. This craft project is not only fun but also allows you to repurpose shells from your beach vacations. You’ll need stepping stone molds, concrete, and a variety of seashells to create the mosaic.
Mix the concrete and pour it into the molds, then press the shells into the surface to create your desired design. You can arrange the shells in patterns, create images, or simply scatter them for a more random look. Once the concrete has set, you’ll have unique stepping stones that add a coastal touch to your garden or walkway.
Shell mosaic stepping stones are a beautiful way to incorporate natural elements into your outdoor space, and they make a great addition to any summer garden.
15. DIY Outdoor Chalkboard
Source
Bring out your inner child with a DIY outdoor chalkboard. This craft is perfect for adding a playful touch to your porch or patio, and it’s great for entertaining guests or keeping kids occupied. You’ll need a piece of wood or plywood, chalkboard paint, and some basic tools to get started.
Paint the surface with chalkboard paint, let it dry, and then hang it in your outdoor space. You can use the chalkboard to leave notes, display a menu for outdoor gatherings, or simply let your creativity flow with chalk drawings.
An outdoor chalkboard adds a fun, interactive element to your porch or patio, and it’s a great way to personalize your space with changing messages and designs.
16. DIY Painted Adirondack Chairs
Source
Adirondack chairs are a staple of outdoor living, and painting them in bold, vibrant colors can give your outdoor space a fresh, modern look. This craft project allows you to customize your seating to match your decor or create a fun, eclectic vibe with different colors for each chair.
To start, sand down the chairs to remove any old paint or finish. Then, choose your paint colors and apply a couple of coats, allowing each to dry completely. You can also stencil designs or add decorative touches like stripes or polka dots.
Painted Adirondack chairs are not only functional but also serve as a focal point for your outdoor seating area. Pair them with colorful outdoor pillows or throws for a cozy, inviting look.
17. DIY Tiki Torches
Source
Light up your summer nights with DIY tiki torches. These torches are not only practical for keeping bugs at bay, but they also add a tropical, festive touch to your outdoor space. You can make them using recycled wine bottles, mason jars, or even bamboo poles.
Fill the containers with tiki torch fuel, insert a wick, and you’re ready to go. You can decorate the bottles or jars with twine, paint, or other embellishments to match your outdoor decor. Place the torches around your patio or along walkways to create a warm, inviting glow.
DIY tiki torches are a simple and stylish way to add ambiance and light to your outdoor gatherings, making them perfect for summer evenings spent with friends and family.
18. Herb Garden Markers
Source
If you have an herb garden, why not make some stylish garden markers to keep track of your plants? This craft project is not only practical but also adds a decorative touch to your garden. You can make the markers out of clay, wood, or even old silverware.
For clay markers, simply shape the clay into small rectangles or other shapes, press a stamp or write the herb names into the clay, and let it dry. You can paint the markers or leave them natural for a more rustic look.
Wooden markers can be made by cutting small pieces of wood and using a wood burner or paint to write the herb names. For a more whimsical touch, use old silverware like spoons or forks, and engrave or stamp the herb names onto the metal.
Herb garden markers not only help you identify your plants but also add a personal, handmade touch to your garden.
19. Wine Bottle Bird Feeders
Source
Repurpose old wine bottles into stylish bird feeders with this fun craft project. All you need is a wine bottle, some twine or wire, and a feeder base. You can either purchase a feeder base or make one out of a small dish or piece of wood.
Attach the bottle to the base using the twine or wire, and fill it with birdseed. Hang the feeder from a tree branch or porch, and watch as birds flock to your yard for a snack. You can decorate the bottle with paint or etchings to give it a personalized look.
Wine bottle bird feeders are a great way to attract wildlife to your garden while also adding a decorative element to your outdoor space.
20. Outdoor Drink Station
Source
Create a functional and stylish outdoor drink station with this easy DIY project. All you need is a small table, a galvanized bucket or tub, and some outdoor-safe accessories. Set up the table in your outdoor space, and use the bucket to hold ice and drinks.
You can also add a chalkboard sign to display the drink options, as well as decorative elements like flowers, lanterns, or string lights. This drink station is perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, or just relaxing on the porch with friends.
An outdoor drink station not only serves a practical purpose but also adds a festive touch to your summer gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to set up and can be customized to fit any theme or decor style.
21. Painted Glass Bottles
Source
Give new life to old glass bottles by turning them into decorative vases, candle holders, or centerpieces. This craft project is simple and requires only a few supplies: glass bottles, paint, and a brush. You can choose to paint the bottles in solid colors, create ombre effects, or add patterns and designs.
Once painted, the bottles can be used as vases for fresh flowers, candle holders for tea lights, or even as part of a centerpiece for your outdoor dining table. Painted glass bottles are an inexpensive and creative way to add a personal touch to your summer decor.
22. DIY Sun Catchers
Source
Add a little sparkle to your outdoor space with DIY sun catchers. This craft project is perfect for catching the sunlight and creating beautiful, colorful reflections. You can make sun catchers using glass beads, sea glass, or even plastic gems.
To make a sun catcher, string the beads or gems onto fishing line or wire, and attach them to a circular frame or branch. Hang the sun catcher in a sunny spot, and watch as the light dances through the beads, creating a stunning visual effect.
DIY sun catchers are a fun and easy way to add a touch of whimsy to your garden or porch, and they make great gifts for friends and family.
23. DIY Outdoor Game Set
Source
Take your outdoor entertaining to the next level with a DIY outdoor game set. You can make your own cornhole boards, giant Jenga, or even a ring toss game with a few simple supplies. For cornhole, all you need is some wood, paint, and bean bags. Decorate the boards with fun summer colors or designs, and you’re ready to play.
Giant Jenga can be made by cutting wooden blocks to size, sanding them down, and painting or staining them. A ring toss game can be made with wooden dowels and rings made from rope or plastic.
These outdoor games are perfect for summer BBQs, family gatherings, or just a fun afternoon in the backyard. Plus, they’re easy to store and can be enjoyed year after year.
These 23 summer crafts for adults are the perfect way to add a personal touch to your outdoor space while enjoying the warm weather. Whether you’re looking to create functional items like furniture and pillows or add decorative elements like lanterns and wind chimes, there’s a craft for everyone to enjoy. So gather your supplies, get creative, and let your outdoor space shine!
