5 Crafts to Try for a Slow and Creative Summer
Summer is the perfect time to slow down, reconnect with your creativity, and try something new. Whether you're looking to unplug, unwind, or just enjoy the quiet rhythm of warm days, these five cozy crafts are the perfect way to savor the season.
Each one is beginner-friendly, joy-filled, and easy to pick up — even if you only have 30 minutes at a time. Let’s dive in!
Before we get started, please enjoy this video highlighting 5 slow summer crafts!
1. Punch Needle Embroidery
Punch needle embroidery is a fun and meditative craft that feels like painting with yarn. Using a special hollow needle tool, you “punch” loops of yarn through fabric to create textured, colorful designs — from florals to abstract patterns to cute home decor pieces.
It’s relaxing, incredibly satisfying, and a great way to play with color and texture.
Want to try it?
Here is a fun tutorial featuring a punch needle accent for a tote bag to help you get started. And below you can find an episode of Coffee & Crafting where I showcase how to start punch needle embroidery.
2. Needle Felting
Needle felting is one of my absolute favorite crafts. Using a barbed needle and fluffy wool roving, you can shape adorable animals, flowers, or anything your heart imagines.
It’s such a tactile and calming process — perfect for quiet summer mornings or crafting with friends.
Exciting news!
I have a needle felting course available with a special offer. If you use the code “summer” you can get the course for 30% off. Please also click here for a helpful beginner friendly blog post about Needle Felting, as well as watching the video below.
3. Embroidery
Simple. Classic. Timeless. Embroidery is a peaceful craft that’s perfect for summer travel or evenings on the porch. With just a hoop, thread, needle, and fabric, you can create delicate designs — think florals, words, and sweet little motifs.
Whether you’re stitching for the first time or picking it up again after years away, it’s a lovely way to unwind and create something meaningful.
New to embroidery?
Here is a blog post I created several years ago, and it features some charming embroidery stitches.
4. Pom Pom Making
Is there anything happier than a pom pom? These little yarn fluff balls are so much fun to make, and they’re perfect for garlands, wreaths, gift toppers, and party decor.
There are many ways to make them, but I prefer to use a pom pom maker. They’re super kid-friendly and great for those "just want to make something fun" moments.
Want more pom pom ideas?
I love pom poms so much that I wrote a Pom Pom eBook all about how to make pom poms, and 4 seasonal wreath tutorials.
And, HERE is a blog post all about how to make a pom pom with a video tutorial below.
5. Fabric Yo-Yos
Fabric yo-yos are sweet little gathered fabric circles that are simple to make and endlessly versatile. Stitch them into garlands, wreaths, pillows, or even quilts. They’re a beautiful way to use up scrap fabric and add a handmade touch to any project.
Want to learn how?
I recently hosted a Creative Workshop all about making a yo-yo wreath — and the replay is available now!
And, here is my most popular Fabric Yo-Yo project: Fabric Yo-Yo Wreath
Ready to Make This Summer a Creative One?
These five crafts are perfect for slowing down, being present, and making something with your hands this summer. Whether you try just one or all five, I hope they bring a little extra joy and inspiration to your days.
And I’d love to know — which craft are you most excited to try this summer? Leave a comment below and let’s chat!
