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20+ creative toys to make for kids

20+ creative toys to make for kidsI 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:

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:

diy toy tutorials for kids

The cutest toys to make for kids

Doll Stroller from That’s My Letter

DIY blocks made from recycled toilet paper rolls, a cheap toddler toy tutorial.

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.

tiny felt animal accessories

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

 

Table top ice hockey

Tabletop Ice Hockey Game from Handmade Charlotte

 

Not pictured:

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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 :)

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