How to Make a [Kid-Made] Custom Craft for Any Occasion

 

Are you looking for a personalized craft that your child can make for a special someone, but you’re limited in time or resources? Look no further! We have a unique and easy idea for you. Don’t worry, it’s not as complex as some of Edgar’s projects; there is much less engineering involved in this one. Our DIY card idea is cute and simple, and it’s sure to tug at anyone’s heartstrings. You only need a few items that you probably already have on hand. This adorable custom craft will not only make the recipient feel special but will also encourage your child’s creativity and self-expression. Plus, it’s cost-efficient and personalized.

What You’ll Need

• Photo of your choice (one of your kiddo and the person receiving this custom gift). Preferably at least 5×8, but 4×6 will also work.
• White printer paper
• Colored construction paper
• Pencil, colored pencils, crayons, markers, or paint. Any method for your child to decorate their custom craft.
• Tape (Removable tape and regular scotch tape OR double-sided tape)
• Scissors OR kid friendly scissors
• Glue stick (optional). We only used this per Meli’s request. She will find any reason to use her purple glue stick. Tape alone works fine. 
• Window that your child can reach with lots of natural light.

[Kid-Made] Custom Craft Process

First, I printed three different photos of Meli, Xander, and their cousin (the birthday boy). I then asked her to select the photo she wanted to use as inspiration for her birthday card craft. Once she chose, I secured the picture onto white printer paper using removable tape.

This particular step needs removable tape to ensure the child’s drawing does not tear when removing it. The exact placement of the tape is not crucial, but it’s best to avoid taping it too close to the edge of the paper. Ensure the photo’s printed part faces the inside and is securely taped down.

Once you’ve secured the photo to the paper, tape the paper onto a window. Doing this will create a translucent effect against the natural light, allowing the photo to show through the white paper. Alternatively, if you have a glass table (like us), you can do the same thing by placing two white light lamps underneath the table to achieve a similar effect. We did the table method, but the window method works just fine. I preferred the table method only because I had more control over the lighting.

Next, encourage your child to trace or color the elements they see on the white paper. Meli used various colors for different parts that didn’t exactly match the colors showing through, but the overall scene in the photo is still recognizable. Her unique interpretation of the image depicts a special memory shared by all three cousins.

Once Meli completed the drawing, I carefully trimmed the section she had colored. She could have done this step with her kid-friendly scissors, but I was starting to lose her focus, and we had to continue our project the following day. Thank goodness we started a day before our deadline!

Next, I handed her the glue stick and asked her to add glue to the back of her picture along with the tape I had already added.

Then I attached it to a folded construction paper. Next, I mounted the photo onto white paper to give it a framed look and affixed it to the other side of the construction paper.

Next, I asked Meli to select an image we could use on the front of the card. She chose a Thomas the Tank Engine picture since it was her cousin’s birthday theme, and the card was for him. After coloring the image, we cut it out and pasted it onto the front of the card. To add another personal touch from her, I asked Meli to write her cousin’s name on a blank piece of paper. We cut out his name and attached it to his card. I know I am biased, but I think her personalized birthday card came out perfectly!

Final Thoughts

As can be seen, if you’re looking for a kid-made art idea that is both easy and heartfelt, our DIY card is the perfect solution. With just a few simple items you likely already have at home, you can create a unique and adorable custom craft that will make the recipient feel extra special. Not only does this craft encourage your child’s creativity and self-expression, but it is also cost-efficient.

You can create a beautiful card that captures a special memory by using a photo of your child’s choice and some basic art supplies. The translucent effect created by taping the photo to a window or using a glass table adds an extra touch of creativity. This DIY card is a creative way to show someone you care and to engage your child in a fun and meaningful activity.

We hope you enjoyed this idea and found these instructions helpful. Please share your thoughts, questions, or experience with this kid-made custom craft idea. We would love to hear your feedback! Interested in more DIY creations? Check out Super Simple DIY Dad for more exciting and imaginative ideas!