25 DIY Birthday Gifts Kids Can Make For Friends And Family

Looking for a way to surprise a friend or family member with something special on their birthday? Involving the kids adds an extra layer of fun and meaning to the gift-giving process.
This list of DIY birthday gifts kids can make is great for all ages. Plus it offers a variety of creative, heartfelt, and even edible gift ideas.
Explore these thoughtful DIY birthday gift ideas that create cherished memories for both the kids and the lucky recipients.
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Pro Tip: Batch-make these DIY birthday gifts with your kids to save on time and materials. Many of them are also perfect for party favors or multiple celebrations!
Fun Homemade Birthday Gifts Kids Can Make
1. DIY Citrus Sugar Scrub
Kids can help measure the ingredients to put this simple sugar scrub together. You will need:
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1/4 cup orange body wash or bubble bath
- 2-3 drops lemon or orange essential oil
Pour all of the ingredients into mason jars and close with a ribbon. Give as gifts!
2. No-Sew Felt Coffee Cup Cozies
Use this free cozy cup pattern and vibrant felt to create adorable no-sew cup cozies. Pair one with the birthday recipient’s favorite hot drink for a thoughtful and cozy gift!
3. Homemade Lip Balm
Try out this easy homemade lip balm recipe that uses only three ingredients. It’s a simple and cost-effective gift that anyone will love to receive!
4. Beaded Keychain
String beads to create a fun accessory for keys or backpacks.
5. Sharpie Painted Mugs
These DIY Sharpie-painted mugs are an easy and affordable way to create a personalized gift. Customize them with unique designs using oil-based Sharpies for a long-lasting, dishwasher safe finish.
6. Plant With Decorated Flower Pot
Decorate a small flower pot with bright colors, fun patterns, or a personalized design. Then plant a beautiful flower or hardy succulent inside for a charming, handmade gift.
7. Tie-Dye Beach Towel
Learn how to make this vibrant, personalized tie-dye beach towel. Everyone will be asking for one for their next birthday!
8. Custom Tote Bag
Design a one-of-a-kind tote bag using fabric paint or markers for a personalized and practical gift.
Try out these easy and adorable DIY Dotty Tote Bags that use a glue stick, paper, fabric paint, and cotton swabs.
9. Handmade Coasters
Gift these DIY glitter coasters to help your friends and family members keep their drinks straight! They are easy to make and you can get creative with your design.
10. Duck Tape Bookmark
These duck tape bookmarks are versatile and simple for kids to make and personalize.
11. Lego Pen Holder
This lego pen holder makes a fun and functional addition to any office or bedroom desk. Customize it with a personalized photo or design personalized for the gift recipient!
12. Friendship Bracelets
Create one-of-a-kind bracelets using colorful thread or beads. Add names, initials, or favorite colors for a personal touch.
13. DIY Computer Wrist Rest
Kids can make this useful DIY wrist rest to make computer work more comfortable!
14. Lavender Heart Bath Bombs
Use this easy bath bomb recipe to give the gift of relaxation!
15. Cord Keepers
These adorable cord keepers are a game-changer for keeping chargers and earbuds neatly organized. Use the free printable templates, colorful felt, hot glue, and velcro dots to craft a practical and thoughtful gift.
Related: Fun & Affordable Birthday Party Ideas For Kids
Keepsake DIY Birthday Gifts Kids Can Make
16. Hand-Shaped Ring Dish
Use air-dry clay, a small ball, a sharp kife, and a rolling pin to create the most perfect hand-shaped dish that can hold rings or small objects.
17. Memory Jar
Write fun memories on slips of paper and put them in a cute jar for the recipient to read throughout the year.
18. “Open When” Letters
Write notes for different occasions like “Open when you’re sad” or “Open when you need a laugh.” Tie together with a ribbon or wrap up in a box for the birthday recipient. Kids of all ages can participate in this which makes it a sweet family gift.
19. Personalized Candle
Kids can put their own artwork right on a candle for this creative gift.
20. Smile Jar
Spread joy with a Smile Jar! Fill it with happy thoughts, uplifting quotes, silly jokes, or funny memories written on colorful paper. Whenever the recipient needs a little boost, they can pull out a note for an instant smile!
Edible DIY Birthday Gifts Kids Will Love To Make
21. Hot Cocoa Kit in A Jar
Mix up an easy 3-ingredient homemade hot chocolate mix in a jar that’s perfect for warming up for a winter birthday treat!
22. Homemade Granola
Package homemade granola in a cute jar with a ribbon for a delicious birthday snack or healthy breakfast treat.
23. Homemade Flavored Popcorn Kit
Pack three small bags of plain popcorn with DIY seasoning blends like cinnamon-sugar, ranch, or spicy cheddar in tiny jars. Add a fun label!
24. Sweet Compliments
Give the gift of sweet words and chocolate with a Jar of Chocolate Compliments!
Write heartfelt or funny compliments on decorative paper, wrap them around bite-sized chocolate bars, and fill a jar. Every treat comes with a smile!
25. Favorite Things Basket
Any child will love choosing the birthday recipient’s favorite snacks and drinks for a fun, personalized treat. Pack them in a cheerful basket, tote, or bag, and add a homemade note for an extra special touch. It’s a thoughtful and easy last-minute gift!
More Ways To Save On Birthdays
- Fun & Cheap Birthday Party Ideas Adults Will Love
- 50 Free & Cheap Things To Do On Your Birthday
- Best Affordable Birthday Gift Ideas
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