20+ Kid-Friendly Crafts to Celebrate Earth Day

Earth Day is a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about the environment while getting creative! Here are some fun, kid-friendly crafts that celebrate the planet:

1. Recycled Paper Planters

Materials:

• Old newspaper or scrap paper
• Scissors
• Glue or tape
• Soil and small plants or seeds

Instructions:

• Cut the newspaper into strips and roll it up into a small cup shape, securing the ends with glue or tape.
• Fill the cup with soil and plant a small seed or flower.
• Decorate the outside with colorful drawings, stickers, or even more scrap paper for a personal touch.

Learning point: This craft teaches kids about recycling and how waste materials can be repurposed to grow new life!

2. DIY Bird Feeders

Materials:

• Toilet paper roll
• Peanut butter (or lard for a nut-free version)
• Bird seed
• String or twine

Instructions:

• Spread peanut butter (or lard) around the toilet paper roll.
• Roll the coated tube in bird seed until fully covered.
• Hang the feeder on a tree branch using the string or twine.
• Watch for birds to visit and enjoy the treat!

Learning point: This is a fun way to encourage wildlife conservation and learn about the importance of feeding birds, especially in urban areas.

3. Earth Day Handprint Craft

Materials:

• Blue and green paint
• Paper
• Paintbrushes
• Markers (optional)

Instructions:

• Use the blue paint to cover your child’s palm and the green paint for their fingers.
• Press their hand onto a sheet of paper to create a handprint image of the Earth.
• After it dries, use markers to draw landforms, clouds, or even animals on the Earth.

Learning point: This simple craft reminds kids of the Earth’s precious resources and emphasizes the importance of taking care of our planet.

4. Nature Collage

Materials:

• Leaves, flowers, twigs, seeds, and other natural items
• Paper or cardboard
• Glue

Instructions:

• Take a nature walk and collect various natural items (leaves, flowers, twigs, etc.).
• Arrange and glue the items onto a piece of paper or cardboard to create a beautiful collage.
• Add a fun touch by creating a shape or scene, like a tree or a sun.

Learning point: This project connects kids to nature and teaches them to appreciate the beauty of the environment right outside their door.

5. Earth Day T-Shirt Designs

Materials:

• Plain white or light-colored T-shirts
• Fabric paints or fabric markers
• Stencils (optional)

Instructions:

• Set up a painting station with fabric paints or markers.
• Have kids design their own Earth Day message or images on the T-shirt, such as a globe, trees, or animals.
• Let the shirts dry completely before wearing them.

Learning point: This is a creative way for kids to express their love for the planet and help raise awareness through wearable art!

6. Upcycled Plastic Bottle Flowers

Materials:

• Plastic bottles (any size)
• Scissors
• Paint (acrylic or spray paint)
• Green straws or sticks (for stems)
• Glue or tape

Instructions:

• Cut the bottoms of the plastic bottles to create flower shapes (you can also cut petals for a more realistic look).
• Paint the bottle flower shapes in bright, fun colors.
• Attach a green straw or stick to the bottom as the flower’s stem.
• Create a whole bouquet or garden to celebrate Earth Day!

Learning point: This craft helps teach kids the concept of upcycling and the value of reusing materials rather than throwing them away.

7. Paper Plate Earth Globe

Materials:

• Paper plates
• Blue and green paint
• Brushes
• Green construction paper (optional)
• Scissors (optional)

Instructions:

• Paint the paper plate blue, leaving some areas for land.
• Once dry, use green paint to add continents or glue on green construction paper cutouts in the shape of continents.
• Decorate with fun designs or labels that represent Earth Day themes like “Save the Earth” or “Love Our Planet.”

Learning point: A simple way to visualize Earth’s land and oceans while fostering an appreciation for our planet’s diverse ecosystems.

8. Upcycled Crayon Earth

Materials:

• Broken crayons (recycled from old, used crayons)
• Silicone mold (preferably in the shape of a circle or Earth)
• Oven (for melting)

Instructions:

• Sort broken crayons by color (blue, green, and brown work best for Earth).
• Peel the paper off the crayons and break them into smaller pieces.
• Place the crayon pieces into a silicone mold and heat in the oven (about 250°F) for 10-15 minutes until the crayons melt together.
• Once cooled, remove from the mold to reveal a crayon in the shape of Earth.

Learning point: This craft shows how old crayons can be recycled into new forms, reducing waste and creating something fun for the future!

9. Eco-Friendly Wind Chimes

Materials:

• Recycled cans or jars
• String or twine
• Beads, buttons, or small bells
• Stick for hanging

Instructions:

• Punch holes in the tops of the cans or jars and thread string through the holes.
• Add beads, buttons, or bells to the string for decoration and sound.
• Tie the strings to a stick and hang the wind chimes outside to enjoy the breeze and sounds.

Learning point: This craft emphasizes sustainability by using upcycled materials to create something fun and eco-friendly.

10. Eco-Friendly Jewelry (Nature Bracelets)

Materials:

• Construction paper or cardboard
• Glue
• Leaves, flowers, small twigs, seeds
• Scissors

Instructions:

• Cut a strip of construction paper or cardboard to create a bracelet size.
• Have kids glue leaves, flowers, and other nature finds onto the bracelet.
• Once the glue is dry, the bracelet can be worn or used as a decoration for Earth Day!

Learning point: This craft connects nature with fashion and encourages kids to explore the beauty of plants and natural materials.

1. Recycled Paper Hearts

Recycled Paper Hearts Craft

Creating recycled paper hearts is a fun and eco-friendly craft for Earth Day or any time you want to recycle old paper into something beautiful. This craft is simple, and kids can personalize it with colors or designs while learning about sustainability.

Materials:

• Old paper (junk mail, scrap paper, newspaper, etc.)
• Scissors
• Glue stick or liquid glue
• Crayons, markers, or paints (optional, for decoration)
• Pencil
• Hole punch (optional, for hanging)
• String or ribbon (optional, for hanging)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Paper:
   • Collect old paper from junk mail, newspapers, or any unwanted paper around the house.
   • Cut the paper into small pieces (about 1-2 inches wide) so that it’s easier to work with.
2. Shred the Paper:
   • Tear or cut the paper into small strips or small squares. You can mix different types of paper for a textured look.
3. Create Paper Pulp:
   • Soak the shredded paper in warm water for about 10-15 minutes. Once the paper is wet, break it apart and mash it with your hands or a spoon until it turns into a pulp. (This step is optional if you want to skip the pulping and just use paper strips.)
4. Form the Paper Heart Shape:
   • If you’re using paper strips, lay them down in the shape of a heart. You can layer them in different directions to make the heart more sturdy. Once you’re happy with the shape, glue the ends together to hold the strips in place.
   • If you made paper pulp, press it into a heart-shaped mold or shape it by hand on a piece of parchment or wax paper. Let it dry for a day or two.
5. Decorate:
   • Once the heart shape is created, kids can decorate it with crayons, markers, or paint to add a personal touch. They can draw designs, patterns, or even write a short Earth Day message on it.
6. Optional – Add a Hanging Hook:
   • If you want to turn your heart into a decoration, use a hole punch to make a small hole at the top of the heart.
   • Thread a piece of string or ribbon through the hole to hang it up.
7. Let it Dry:
   • Allow the glued or pulped paper heart to dry completely before displaying it.

Learning Points:

• Recycling: This craft teaches kids how to reuse old paper to create something new, reducing waste.
• Creativity: Kids can experiment with different paper colors, textures, and designs.
• Earth Day Connection: Making paper hearts helps kids understand how small acts of recycling can help take care of the Earth.

Ideas for Variations:

• Add Natural Materials: Glue small leaves, flower petals, or seeds onto the heart to give it a more natural look.
• Use Old Magazines: Instead of plain paper, use colorful magazine pages to create vibrant hearts.
• Make a Paper Heart Garland: Create several hearts and string them together to make a festive Earth Day garland.

These recycled paper hearts make a great Earth Day craft, and they’re a perfect way for kids to be creative while learning about sustainability and the importance of recycling. Enjoy crafting.

2. Toilet Paper Roll Animals

You can transform a toilet paper roll into any adorable creature you want, from butterflies to bunnies. Visit Untrained Housewife for a variety of tutorials.

3. Puffy Paint Earth

Puffy Paint Earth Craft

A Puffy Paint Earth craft is a fun and tactile way to celebrate Earth Day! The puffy paint gives the project a 3D effect, making it extra special. This activity allows kids to learn about the planet while getting hands-on with a creative and sensory experience.

Materials:

• Puffy Paint Ingredients:
  • 1 cup shaving cream (foam type, not gel)
  • 1/2 cup white glue
  • Food coloring (blue and green)
  • A bowl for mixing
  • A spoon or craft stick for mixing
• Paper (cardstock, construction paper, or any sturdy paper)
• Pencil (for sketching)
• Scissors (optional, for cutting)
• Paintbrushes (optional, for applying paint)

Instructions:

1. Make the Puffy Paint:
   • In a bowl, mix the shaving cream and white glue together. Stir gently until well combined.
   • Add a few drops of food coloring. Use blue for the oceans and green for the land. You can adjust the amount of food coloring to get the shade you like.
   • Mix until the paint has a thick, fluffy texture. The shaving cream will make it puffy and fun to touch!
2. Draw the Earth:
   • Use a pencil to lightly draw a large circle in the center of your paper. This will be the outline of your Earth.
   • You can also draw the continents (or just basic landmasses) inside the circle if you’d like to make it more detailed.
3. Apply the Puffy Paint:
   • Using a spoon, craft stick, or paintbrush, start applying the puffy paint to your Earth.
   • Paint the oceans with blue and the land with green, following the shape of your drawn Earth. If you’d like, you can also add touches of brown for more realistic landmasses or other creative colors.
4. Add Texture:
   • Make sure to leave the paint thick and textured for a “puffy” effect. Kids can use their fingers to gently spread the paint or tap it to make little textured bumps, which will make it more fun and interactive.
5. Let It Dry:
   • Once the painting is complete, allow the puffy paint to dry for at least 2 hours, or until it feels firm and fully set. The paint will dry to a raised, textured finish.
6. Optional – Add Details:
   • After the paint dries, you can add more details to your Earth with markers, glitter, or even small cut-out shapes of animals, trees, or clouds. These can be glued around the Earth for extra fun!

Learning Points:

• Understanding Earth: Kids will learn about the Earth’s land and water formations as they paint the planet.
• Sustainability Connection: Discuss how the Earth needs our protection—this is a great time to talk about recycling, taking care of the environment, and keeping our planet healthy.
• Textural Play: The puffy paint adds a sensory element to the craft, encouraging kids to explore textures as they create.

Variations:

• Add Small Accessories: Once the paint has dried, you can decorate your Earth with small embellishments like stars, animals, or even a sun in the corner of the paper to show the Earth’s place in space.
• Create a Puffy Earth Garland: Make several Earths using puffy paint, cut them out, and string them together to make a decorative Earth Day banner.

This Puffy Paint Earth craft not only celebrates the beauty of our planet, but it also gives children a chance to explore textures and learn about the environment in a fun, hands-on way.

4. Peanut Butter Bird Feeder

Make a few feathered friends extremely happy with these bird feeders by gathering pinecones from your backyard or nearby park. For instructions, see Tinkerlab.

5. Earth Mosaic

Tell everyone in the neighbourhood how excited you are for Earth Day! You may transform cardboard into a lovely earth mosaic for your window with the help of Make and Takes.

6. Gum Leaf Necklaces

Gum Leaf Necklaces Craft

Creating Gum Leaf Necklaces is a fun and eco-friendly craft that allows kids to connect with nature by using natural materials to make beautiful wearable art. This craft is perfect for celebrating Earth Day or anytime you want to make something unique with items found in nature.

Materials:

• Fresh gum leaves (or any large, flat leaves)
• String, twine, or elastic cord (to make the necklace)
• Hole puncher (optional)
• Markers, paint, or crayons (optional, for decorating)
• Scissors
• Paper towel (for pressing leaves, optional)
• Glue (optional, for decoration)

Instructions:

1. Collect Gum Leaves:
   • Go outside and collect fresh gum leaves or any large, sturdy leaves you can find. Look for leaves that are flat and free of holes. If you’re in an area with gum trees, their leaves work particularly well for this craft, but any leaf with a nice shape will do!
   • If you want a more colorful leaf, you can use leaves that have turned colors in the fall, or you can paint your leaves later.
2. Prepare the Leaves:
   • To help preserve the leaves and prevent them from wilting quickly, you can press them. Place the leaves between two sheets of paper towel and press them flat under a heavy book for a few hours or overnight. This step is optional but helps to keep the leaves looking nice for longer.
3. Decorate the Leaves (Optional):
   • If you want to add some color or design to the leaves, you can use markers, crayons, or paint. Decorate one side of the leaves with fun patterns, or simply add a splash of color. Make sure to let any paint or markers dry before continuing with the craft.
4. Punch Holes for Stringing:
   • Use a hole puncher to make a small hole near the stem of each leaf. This will allow you to thread the string or cord through the leaf to make the necklace.
   • If you don’t have a hole puncher, you can use scissors to carefully create a small slit in the leaf stem or use glue to attach the leaf to the string.
5. String the Leaves:
   • Cut a length of string, twine, or elastic cord long enough to fit comfortably around your neck, plus a little extra for tying.
   • Thread the leaves onto the string. You can thread them in a straight line, alternate leaves with beads (if you have any), or create a pattern. You can also add more than one leaf to create a layered effect.
   • Tie knots around the holes in the leaves to keep them in place, or if you prefer, you can just let the string pass through the hole for a more freeform look.
6. Finish the Necklace:
   • Once you have added as many leaves as you like, tie the ends of the string securely to form the necklace. If you want to adjust the size, you can tie a small knot to make it adjustable or use a clasp (if available).
   • If you’d like, add a small decorative element, such as a wooden bead, a button, or a small charm to finish the necklace.
7. Wear and Enjoy!:
   • Your Gum Leaf Necklace is ready to wear! It’s a beautiful, eco-friendly accessory made entirely from natural materials, perfect for celebrating nature and the Earth.

Learning Points:

• Connection to Nature: This craft helps children connect with the natural world and learn about the beauty of leaves and plants.
• Creativity: Kids can express their creativity by decorating the leaves or designing the layout of their necklace.
• Sustainability: This activity uses materials from nature that are biodegradable, and it encourages the idea of creating art using sustainable, eco-friendly materials.

Variations:

• Leaf Pressing Art: Instead of making a necklace, you can press the leaves and use them for greeting cards, framed art, or even a scrapbook.
• Add Beads: Combine gum leaves with wooden beads, seeds, or even small flowers for a more intricate design.
• Make Leaf Bracelets: If you prefer, you can make a bracelet instead of a necklace by using the same method, just making the string shorter to fit around your wrist.

This Gum Leaf Necklace craft is a great way to bring the outdoors inside and celebrate the beauty of the Earth in a sustainable and creative way.

7. Earth Day Collage

Create an eye-catching collage for Earth Day! Reusing old magazines to create a fresh work of art with an earthy theme is simple. For complete directions, see I Heart Crafty Things.

8. Coiled Magazine Paper Bowls

Although it takes a bit longer, this Frugal Upstate craft is manageable for young hands to learn. It’s also the ideal way to pass a soggy spring day.

9. Coffee Filter Earth

A Coffee Filter Earth is a fun, simple craft project that uses coffee filters to create a colorful representation of Earth. It’s perfect for kids or anyone looking for a creative way to learn about the planet while making a piece of art. Here’s how you can make your own Coffee Filter Earth:

Materials Needed:

• White coffee filters (one per Earth)
• Water-based markers (blue, green, and optional brown)
• Spray bottle with water (or a dropper)
• A paper towel or newspaper (to protect the work surface)
• Scissors (optional, for cutting the coffee filter into a circle)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coffee Filter:

• Lay a coffee filter flat on a paper towel or newspaper to protect your work surface from any ink that may bleed through.
• If you’d like a more circular Earth, you can trim the coffee filter into a perfect circle, but this step is optional since coffee filters are already round.

2. Color the Coffee Filter:

• Use blue markers to color the majority of the coffee filter. This will represent the oceans of Earth.
• Use green markers to color areas for the continents. You can add small patches or larger swirls of green where the continents would be (e.g., North America, South America, Africa, etc.).
• If desired, use a brown marker for additional detail to represent mountains or landforms.
• Don’t worry about being perfect—the goal is to add some abstract, colorful patches that resemble the land and oceans of Earth.

3. Add Water to the Filter:

• Once the coffee filter is colored, lightly spray it with water from a spray bottle. This step causes the colors to spread and bleed, creating a watercolor effect.
• If you don’t have a spray bottle, you can drop small amounts of water onto the filter with a dropper, but be careful not to oversaturate it.

4. Let It Dry:

• Allow the coffee filter to dry completely. You can leave it to air dry for an hour or so, depending on how much water you used. The drying time may vary depending on the humidity and how wet the filter got.
• As it dries, the colors will blend together to create a beautiful, Earth-like effect.

5. Optional: Shape the Earth (if desired):

• Once the coffee filter is dry, you can keep it flat, or you can gently crinkle it to give it texture. If you’re using it as a decoration or in a classroom activity, you might want to leave it flat.

Displaying the Coffee Filter Earth:

• Once the Coffee Filter Earth is dry and ready, you can hang it up or use it as part of a larger project. For example, you could turn it into a poster by attaching it to a larger piece of construction paper or cardboard.
• You could also cut out a small circle and turn it into a decorative pin or magnet!

Tips:

• Experiment with different techniques for applying color to the coffee filter. You could try using different shades of blue for the ocean or add additional colors for creativity.
• You can also add glitter or stickers to represent the clouds in the atmosphere or add extra details for a more realistic effect.

This Coffee Filter Earth craft is a great way to teach kids about the planet while getting creative, and it’s a simple project that can be done with minimal materials!

10. Egg Carton Millennium Falcon

With the aid of The Weisse Guys and a repurposed egg carton, journey to a galaxy far, far away. This concept not only breathes fresh life into something you would otherwise discard, but it also elevates playtime to a Wookiee level.

11. Tin Can Windchimes

Tin Can Windchimes are a fun and easy DIY craft project that turns recycled tin cans into a beautiful, functional piece of garden or home decor. With the right materials and a little creativity, you can create a charming windchime that produces a soft, melodic sound when the wind blows. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your own tin can windchimes.

Materials Needed:

• 3–5 tin cans (cleaned and labels removed)
• Hammer and nail (for punching holes)
• String, fishing line, or thin wire
• Paint or decorative materials (optional, for decorating the cans)
• Beads, bells, or metal washers (optional, for adding sound or decoration)
• Scissors or wire cutters
• A sturdy stick, dowel, or wooden plank (for hanging the chimes)
• Drill (optional, if you prefer to drill holes instead of using a hammer and nail)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Clean the Tin Cans:

• Start by cleaning your tin cans thoroughly. Remove any labels and wash the cans to ensure they are free of any sticky residue or dirt. You can soak them in warm water to loosen labels, or use an adhesive remover if necessary.
• Dry the cans completely.

2. Prepare the Tin Cans:

• Use a hammer and nail (or a drill) to punch holes in the bottom of each can. You’ll need at least one hole in the center of the bottom to thread string or wire through. For added sound, you can also add a hole near the rim or along the side of the can to attach beads or other decorative elements.
• Be careful when using the hammer and nail to avoid sharp edges. You can wear gloves if necessary.

3. Decorate the Tin Cans (Optional):

• If you want to personalize your windchimes, paint the cans in bright colors or decorate them with markers, stickers, or other embellishments.
• You could also wrap the cans with twine or ribbon for a rustic look or add decorative paper to match your outdoor theme.
• Allow the paint or decorations to dry fully before proceeding.

4. Prepare the Hanging Mechanism:

• Cut several pieces of string, fishing line, or wire. Each piece should be long enough to suspend your cans from the main support (like the stick or dowel) and allow them to hang freely.
• If you are using a dowel or wooden plank as the top support for your windchime, make sure it is sturdy enough to hold the cans. You can also use a thick branch, which will add a natural touch.

5. Attach the Cans:

• Thread a piece of string or wire through the hole in the bottom of each can, tying a knot or securing it with a bead or washer to hold the can in place. If you want the cans to hang at different lengths, adjust the length of the string for each can.
• You can also add small metal washers, beads, or bells to the string for added decoration and sound. This step is optional, but it can make your windchimes even more charming.

6. Attach the cans to the Main support:

• Once each can is attached to its own string or wire, tie the other end of each string to the stick, dowel, or wooden plank. Space the cans evenly to create a balanced windchime. The windchime should hang loosely so that the cans can move freely in the wind.
• If you’re using fishing line, you can easily adjust the lengths of the strings by tying knots at different points along the line.

7. Test the Windchime:

• Hang your windchime in a place where the wind can catch it, such as on a porch, balcony, or tree branch. Test the chimes to ensure they make sound when moved by the wind. You can adjust the length of the strings or add more beads or bells if you want to enhance the sound.

8. Enjoy!

• Once everything is set up, step back and enjoy the beautiful sounds of your homemade tin can windchime. The wind will create a gentle, soothing melody as the cans sway and bump against each other.

Additional Tips:

• Mix and Match Cans: Use cans of different sizes and shapes for a more dynamic sound. Larger cans create deeper tones, while smaller cans produce higher-pitched sounds.
• Use Multiple Layers: If you want a more complex windchime, you can make two or more layers of cans that hang at different lengths from the same support.
• Weather Protection: If you plan to leave your windchime outside for a long period of time, you might want to spray it with a clear waterproof sealant to protect it from the elements.

Creative Variations:

• Colorful Beads: Add colorful beads to the string for extra decoration. You can match the beads to the colors of your painted cans or use rainbow-colored beads for a more whimsical look.
• Add Shells or Rocks: For a beachy or rustic feel, try adding shells or small rocks to the strings to create additional sounds when the wind blows.
• Unique Supports: If you want something more creative for the top support, use a sturdy branch, a wooden hanger, or even an old kitchen utensil like a ladle or a fork.

This Tin Can Windchime project is a great way to recycle old cans and create something beautiful and functional. The sound it creates can be both soothing and cheerful, making it a lovely addition to your garden or home.

12. Painted Garden Sticks

The kids will adore finding sticks and then adorning them with this idea from Sweet Thing Designs, which is perfect for a simple yet eco-friendly yard decoration.

13. Earth Day Newspaper Garland

How might Earth Day be celebrated most effectively? Of course, with a garland of newspapers! Best paper planets are the best way to cap off your celebrations, according to Kitchen Counter Chronicle.

14. DIY Garden Stakes

Creating DIY garden stakes is a fun and functional project that can personalize your garden while helping you organize your plants. Whether you’re marking plant varieties, making decorative garden accents, or simply adding a touch of creativity to your outdoor space, here are a few simple ideas for crafting your own garden stakes:

1. Wooden Garden Stakes

Wooden stakes are a classic option, and you can personalize them easily with paint, wood-burning techniques, or carving.

Materials Needed:

• Wooden dowels, garden sticks, or branches (cut to desired length)
• Sandpaper (for smoothing rough edges)
• Paint, markers, or wood-burner (for decorating)
• Clear sealant (optional, to protect against weather)
• Drill (optional, for adding labels)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Wood: Sand the edges of the wooden dowels or branches to remove any rough patches.
2. Decorate: Use weather-resistant paint to label the stakes with plant names or simply to add designs like flowers, stripes, or geometric shapes. You could also use a wood-burning tool to create intricate patterns or text.
3. Seal: If you live in a wet climate, consider sealing the stakes with a clear outdoor varnish to help them last longer.
4. Place: Insert the stakes into the ground near your plants.

2. Pebble or Stone Stakes

For a more rustic or natural look, use large flat stones or pebbles as garden markers.

Materials Needed:

• Flat stones or small, smooth pebbles
• Permanent markers, paint, or decoupage materials
• Glue (optional, to attach a wooden dowel or metal rod if you want height)

Instructions:

1. Select Stones: Choose smooth, flat stones or large pebbles.
2. Decorate: Write plant names or create designs on the stones using permanent markers, acrylic paint, or decoupage.
3. Optional: For taller stakes, you can glue the stone to a piece of wood or metal rod for extra height.
4. Place: Set them in your garden beds to label your plants or add decorative elements.

3. Fork & Spoon Garden Stakes (Upcycled)

If you have some old forks or spoons, this is a fun and sustainable way to create quirky garden markers.

Materials Needed:

• Old forks or spoons (metal)
• Hammer
• Metal stamps or a permanent marker (for labeling)
• Planting wood or rebar (for securing the forks/spoons in the soil)

Instructions:

1. Flatten the Fork/Spoon: Use a hammer to flatten the tines of the fork or spoon, making it easier to attach to the stake.
2. Label: You can either stamp letters into the metal with a metal stamp or use a permanent marker to write the plant name on the spoon or fork.
3. Attach to Stake: Use glue or wire to attach the spoon or fork to a wooden dowel or rebar for extra height.
4. Insert into Soil: Stick your new, quirky garden stake into the ground.

4. PVC Pipe Stakes

PVC pipe is another durable, weather-resistant material that you can use to create custom garden markers.

Materials Needed:

• PVC pipes (3/4″ diameter works well)
• Saw (for cutting the PVC to desired length)
• Paint or stickers (for labeling)
• PVC end caps (optional, to finish the top)
• Drill or hot glue gun (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cut the PVC: Measure and cut the PVC pipe into sections of the desired length (typically 12–24 inches).
2. Label: Paint the pipe with weather-resistant paint or add stickers to label plant varieties. You can also decorate the PVC with stencils or permanent markers.
3. Seal the End (optional): If you want a more finished look, add PVC end caps to the top of the pipes.
4. Place: Stick the PVC pipes into the ground next to your plants.

5. Repurposed Garden Stakes (Old Wood or Furniture)

Old furniture parts, like wooden chair legs, can be repurposed into unique garden stakes. This is a great way to reuse materials that might otherwise be discarded.

Materials Needed:

• Old furniture legs or scrap wood
• Sandpaper (to smooth the wood)
• Paint or wood stain (for decorating)
• Optional metal rods (for extra support)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Wood: Sand and clean the wood or furniture pieces to make them suitable for outdoor use.
2. Paint: Apply paint or wood stain to the stakes. You can also write plant names or use stencils to decorate them.
3. Add Stability: If the wood feels too light to stand up well in the soil, attach it to a metal rod or heavier base for stability.
4. Insert: Place the stakes in your garden and enjoy the upcycled charm.

6. Clay or Cement Garden Markers

You can make your own clay or cement markers for a more durable option, which will last for several seasons.

Materials Needed:

• Air-dry clay or quick-set cement
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters or molds (optional)
• Sharpie or stamps (for labeling)
• Clear sealant (optional)

Instructions:

1. Shape the Clay/Cement: Roll out your clay or cement mixture to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles, circles, or custom shapes).
2. Label: Once shaped, use a permanent marker or stamps to label the garden markers with plant names or designs.
3. Dry: Allow the clay or cement to dry according to package instructions.
4. Seal: Apply a sealant if necessary to protect from the elements.
5. Place: Set these markers in your garden to help identify your plants.

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Tips for DIY Garden Stakes:

• Durability: Consider your local weather conditions when choosing materials. For wet or humid climates, use treated wood, metal, or sealed materials to ensure the stakes last.
• Height: If you need tall stakes for visibility, make sure to use sturdy materials like wood, rebar, or PVC.
• Personalization: Add some personal flair with painted designs, patterned paper, or natural elements like pressed flowers.

With these DIY garden stakes, you’ll not only have an organized garden but also one that’s uniquely yours. Let your creativity flourish!

15. Eco Bead Bracelet

Creating an eco bead bracelet is a fun and sustainable way to make jewelry while being mindful of the environment. You can use a variety of eco-friendly materials like recycled glass, wooden beads, seeds, or even repurposed plastic to create a stylish piece that reflects your commitment to sustainability. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own eco bead bracelet:

Materials Needed:

• Eco-friendly beads: You can use recycled glass beads, wooden beads, seed beads, or beads made from natural materials like bone, shell, or clay. You could also use beads made from repurposed materials like old buttons, plastic from discarded items, or even paper beads (which are great for upcycling).
• Stretch cord or hemp cord: Stretch cord is great for easy sizing, while hemp cord offers a more rustic look.
• Clasp (optional): If you’re using regular cord, you might want a clasp, but stretch cord allows you to simply tie it together.
• Beading needle (optional): For smaller beads, a beading needle will make it easier to string them.
• Scissors
• Ruler or measuring tape: To measure your wrist and adjust the length of your bracelet.

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Plan Your Design

• Start by selecting your beads. Choose a color scheme or a pattern that appeals to you. If you’re aiming for an eco-friendly look, try to mix natural materials like wood, seeds, or recycled glass.
• Plan the order of your beads before you start stringing them. You can alternate colors, create stripes, or make a random pattern.

2. Measure Your Wrist

• Measure the circumference of your wrist using a ruler or a flexible measuring tape. Add about 1–2 inches to this measurement to account for the space between the beads and to ensure the bracelet fits comfortably.
• If you’re using stretch cord, make sure you add enough length to tie a secure knot.

3. Cut the Cord

• Cut a piece of cord about 2–3 inches longer than your wrist measurement. This will give you extra length to tie knots at the end.
• If you’re using stretch cord, you won’t need a clasp, and the length of the cord should be enough to tie a secure knot at the end.

4. String the Beads

• Start by threading your beads onto the cord. You can either use a beading needle for smaller beads or simply thread them by hand.
• If you’re using stretch cord, it will be a bit more flexible, so you can easily pull the beads through. If you’re using hemp or nylon cord, you might need to adjust tension as you go along to make sure the bracelet isn’t too tight.
• If you’re adding a pattern or alternating colors, keep an eye on the arrangement as you go.

5. Test the Fit

• As you string the beads, occasionally check the length of the bracelet by wrapping it around your wrist. Stop when you’ve reached your desired length.
• If you’re using stretch cord, make sure the bracelet is snug but still comfortable to wear.

6. Tie the Knot (if using stretch cord):

• Once all your beads are strung, tie the two ends of the stretch cord together in a secure knot. Use a double knot for extra security, and make sure the knot is tight enough so it won’t come undone.
• For a cleaner look, you can hide the knot inside a larger bead if it fits.

7. Secure the ends (if not using stretch cord):

• If you’re using regular cord and adding a clasp, attach the clasp to the ends of the bracelet. You can use jump rings and pliers to securely attach the clasp to the bracelet.
• If you’re using hemp cord, tie a knot at each end and attach any findings or beads that act as closure pieces.

8. Trim and Finish

• Trim any excess cord using scissors, leaving about 1/4 inch of cord to ensure the knots stay secure.
• If desired, you can use a tiny dab of clear glue (like jewelry glue) on the knot to keep it from slipping over time. This is especially helpful for stretch cord.
• Allow the glue to dry completely before wearing the bracelet.

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Eco-Friendly Alternatives:

If you’re looking to make your eco-bead bracelet even more sustainable, consider using:

• Recycled glass beads: These are beads made from repurposed glass bottles or other discarded glass products.
• Paper beads: You can make your own paper beads by rolling strips of recycled paper into bead shapes. There are plenty of tutorials online to show you how to make these.
• Wooden beads: Wood is biodegradable and a renewable resource. Look for beads made from sustainable wood sources or reclaimed wood.
• Seed beads: Some seed beads are made from natural materials, like seeds or nuts, which can add a unique and eco-friendly touch.
• Repurposed plastics: Use plastic that would otherwise be thrown away, like old bottle caps or broken plastic toys, to create your own beads.

16. Stained Glass Earth Painting

All you need for this simple Royal Baloo activity is wax paper, paint, brushes, and a small amount of black paper. Children can use their imaginations to create beautiful stained glass effects, which they can then trim into an earth form and place in a window.

17. Grass People

Create your own tin can salon with things you may find and get in touch with nature. Using recyclable resources and some entertaining craft tools, Toddler Approved creates the prettiest grass people you’ve ever seen.

18. Painted Wood Slices

This wood slice activity from Homegrown Friends will help you relax while painting. Children will love learning about the many textures on each piece of wood and creating art with a new medium.

19. DIY Bird Bath

Little birdies are welcomed to the neighbourhood with this cheerful and colourful craft from The Chirping Moms. Before water is added, simple terra-cotta pots are painted and put together. Now let’s go bird-viewing!

20. Leaf Art

Make art to honour the splendour of our amazing world! For this adorable activity from Fireflies & Mudpies, combine natural materials like grass, leaves, and sticks with a little of paint.