I love toys to make for kids! There’s something special about a handmade toy, whether you’re gifting it or keeping it for your own family. I’ve rounded up 15 fresh toys with free patterns or tutorials that I think would make great gifts for kids of all ages. They span wood-working, painting, Mod Podge-ing, & dyeing, so something for everyone!
I updated this post in 2019, deleting some old links and separating out the sewing tutorials into the cutest 25+ toys to sew for kids!
If you need even more ideas of what to sew for kids, check out these posts:
- Patterns to sew for truck loving kids
- Free stuffie patterns that match up with beloved kids books in this post and a second post
- The cutest quilts to sew for kids
These are all indoor toys; if you’re looking for DIY outdoor toys for kids, check out this blog post!
Pin this round-up of toys to make for kids with this link or collage image, please click through to the original posts to pin individual images:
The cutest toys to make for kids
Doll Stroller from That’s My Letter
quick, free toilet paper roll toy DIY here at Swoodson Says
Dyed Play Silks from How Does She
Adorable DIY superhero peg dolls, from Views from a Stepstool.
DIY altoid tin bed for a sweet stuffed animal, here at Swoodson Says.
Pop-Up Puppet from Say Yes
DIY Upcycled Inventor’s Box from Modern Parents Messy Kids
Clever DIY race track tutorial at The Pinning Mama, go see all the other elements in her post!
Pizza Puzzle from A Beautiful Mess
Eco-friendly and adorable DIY cardboard doll house from Little Red Window.
Winter Story Stones from Emily Neuberger/Sew Mama Sew – this website is dead now but leaving it up for inspiration!
Clever upcycled cardboard camera tutorial from MollyMooCrafts. [2024 edit – the site seems to be gone, leaving up for visual inspiration]
Geometric Wooden Tiles from Things for Boys
My kids would love this DIY dinosaur excavation kit from Make Life Lovely.
Felt Road Set from Felt with Love Designs
Tabletop Ice Hockey Game from Handmade Charlotte
Not pictured:
- DIY Star Wars light sabers at Madame Deals
- Wood robot toys from Adventure in a Box
- Lego tray at Somewhat Simple
- DIY Chinese Checker game at Lovely Indeed
Mandi
Thursday 21st of April 2022
I love the look of pocket kitty. Will make some for my granddaughters, Thank you.
Stephanie - Swoodson Says
Saturday 4th of June 2022
love to hear it Mandi!
abby @ thingsforboys
Wednesday 10th of December 2014
Such a great round up. I love that tea set!!
Stephanie - Swoodson Says
Sunday 14th of December 2014
Thanks Abby! I have so much fun doing round-ups like this :)