Make Stuff: Kits for Kids

In this installment of "make stuff" you don't need to be artsy or crafty at all. You just need to be a creative compiler to make a fun kit for a child's gift.

Drawing Kit

If you know child who loves to draw, this kit will provide hours of entertainment (and learning)!

Container Idea: I put mine in a heavy box I found at The Container Store. It wasn't necessarily cheap, but it was the perfect size to fit all the contents.

Content Ideas:
-Large sketch book
-Tracing paper pad
-small scratch pad
-Colored pencils
-a nice marker set
-drawing pencil
-kneaded eraser
-pencil sharpener
-tiny wooden movable drawing manikin (or check out this dog drawing manikin)
-instructional drawing or lettering books
-letter and shape stencils
-french curve or other fun rulers.

Letter Writing Kit

Once a child starts to write on their own, this kit is a fun way to let them practice their skills and learn the art of this "ancient" way to correspond. I first heard of this idea from Kage in her "most creative gifts post" from a while back.

Container Idea: I found the photo storage boxes (around $3) at Michaels or JoAnn's were the perfect size and the right price too. They also come plain (ready to decorate) or in fun patterns.
Content Ideas:
-blank cards and envelopes (ready to decorate)
-cute stationary sets
-pre-printed "thank you' cards
-Design your own Postcards
-postage stamps
-stickers
-set of writing pens
-personalized monogram stamp (self-inking) or personalized return address labels.
-an address book (and if you know the child well, include the book preloaded with the addresses of all their most favorite people).

Craft Kit

I know, it's not the newest idea in the world, but it is a kit any kid is sure to love.

Container Idea: While many craft stores now carry their own "craft organizer cases", I love putting together craft kits in tackle boxes that can be found at any sporting goods store. Usually they are cheaper, have better compartments and they always have a carrying handle.
Content Ideas:
-pom-poms
-sequins
-pipe cleaners
-popsicle sticks
-glue (school glue, glue sticks, glitter glue)
-scissors (straight edge and fancy)
-beads (wooden ones are fun and seem to be more reusable)
-wiggly eyes
-jewels
-paper (I like to include bits of colored and patterned paper scraps. colored tissue paper scraps are great too)
-fabric scraps
-wood shapes
-clothespins
-buttons

Fun with Yarn Kit

This kit is a perfect introduction to the "yarn arts" for a child who might not be quite old enough to learn to knit or crochet.

Container idea: A cute tote or basket is perfect for this kit.
Content ideas:
-a selection of fun yarn (check the thrift store first!)
-circular knitting loom
-Knitting spool
-Fun with String book
-A coupon for a private "finger knitting" lesson. (that is, if you remember how to do it from your childhood.

Dress-up Kit

And I'm not talking about princess dresses and tiaras. This kit is made up of found items from around the house and at thrift stores.

Container Idea: look for an old suitcase at a second-hand store.
Content ideas:
-scarf
-gloves
-hat
-costume jewelry - necklace, bracelet, ring
-purse
-fancy shoes
-fun women's clothes - bright colors, patterns, sparkles - anything that would be appealing to a child.


Resources - Don't forget to check the local thrift stores for craft and stationary items. I always find the best stuff there for super cheap.

Discount School Supply
Oriental Trading Supply
Michaels - especially look in their in-store dollar bins
JoAnn's - especially look in their in-store dollar bins
Target - especially look in their in-store dollar bins

Past "Make Stuff" posts
Make Stuff: Pumpkin Carving
Make Stuff: Fabric Scrap Paper Doll