[Summer Vacation Crafts] Not just make-and-done! A collection of practical ideas you can use every day
We often hear things like, “I don’t know what to make for my summer break project,” or “I want to create something practical!” But don’t worry.
With simple, everyday materials, you can make wonderful projects that are useful in daily life.
Here, we introduce crafts that grow more endearing the more you use them: a sturdy pen holder made from a milk carton, a cute felt humidifier, a metal door plate made from an aluminum sheet, and more.
They’re all simple to make, yet durable enough to use long after they’re finished.
This summer break, try your hand at practical projects the whole family will love!
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[Summer Vacation Crafts] Not just for making and forgetting! A collection of practical ideas you can use every day (11–20)
Knitted tissue cover

Tissue paper has also become an indispensable part of modern life, hasn’t it? In the kitchen and the living room, it’s handy to have one tissue box per room.
So how about making a lovely crocheted tissue box cover? Many elementary and middle school students might say, “I’ve never knitted or crocheted before…,” but since it’s summer vacation, trying something new could be fun.
There are plenty of lesson videos on video sites that teach crochet from the basics.
If you’re nervous about starting alone, it’s a great idea to begin with a friend.
It’s a recommended independent study project for everyone, regardless of gender!
magnetic board

Fireplaces often appear in foreign movies, and there are usually family photos displayed on the mantel, aren’t there? How about making a lovely magnet board over summer vacation and displaying family and memory-filled photos? Compared to other independent study projects, this one can be made in a short time, so it’s recommended for those who are busy.
What you’ll need: a large photo frame, a sheet of tin (if you can’t get tin, a magnetic sheet will also work), and some fairly strong magnets.
Basically, once you fix the tin sheet or magnetic sheet to the back of the photo frame, you’re done—so spend the rest of your time on stylish decorations.
Attaching seashells to the frame will give it a summery feel.
milk carton chair

How about surprising everyone by making a small chair to go beside a side table—out of milk cartons? You’ll need a lot of cartons, so plan ahead for summer vacation and drink plenty of milk.
The basic step is to open each milk carton once, then fold it again to make a regular triangular tube.
Stuff the inside with old newspapers to increase strength.
If you want a lighter chair, use less newspaper.
Combine about 20 triangular tubes and shape them however you like.
If you’re not particular about the shape, a hexagonal chair is recommended! Attach a cute fabric cover to the shaped chair and you’re done.
It takes time, so spread the work over several days.
Cooler made with 100-yen shop items

Air conditioners make rooms nice and cool, but installing one is expensive and maintaining it—like cleaning—can be a hassle.
So this time, we’re introducing a portable DIY cooler! Cut a hole in the lid of a cooler box and attach a small fan.
After creating an air outlet on the side of the cooler, add dividers inside to keep ice packs standing upright.
Attach a box on the outside of the cooler to hold a battery, and you’re done.
If you use a mobile battery, it’ll be a great item for camping and other outdoor activities, too.
3 simple coasters

How about making coasters as a summer vacation craft? Here, we’ll introduce three methods.
The first is a coaster made by arranging tiles on top of paper clay.
The second is a coaster made by lining up beads and melting them in the microwave.
The third is a summery coaster that expresses a seasonal scene by placing shells, sequins, and stickers in resin.
They’re all easy to make, so give them a try.
You can buy most of the materials at 100-yen shops.
piggy bank

When you all have something you want, you save up bit by bit—10 yen, 100 yen at a time, right? A piggy bank is the perfect partner for steady saving.
So, while it’s a classic choice for a summer project, let’s try making different kinds of piggy banks.
How about a magical one that automatically sorts coins, one with a dial display that shows at a glance how much you’ve saved, or one that plays music when you put money in? Get creative and aim for a one-of-a-kind piggy bank.
On video sites, you can even see prank-style piggy banks that don’t save any money at all.
Enjoy making yours this summer!
[Summer Vacation Crafts] Not just for making—practical ideas you can use every day (21–30)
How to make a pencil case
You can stand your favorite pens upright! Here’s how to make a cute pen case using a plastic wrap core.
First, cut the wrap core to a length that fits your pens.
It’s tough, so kids should have an adult help.
Next, place the core on thick paper, trace around it with a pencil, cut it out, and glue on a lid and a base for the case.
Once the glue dries, decorate it with your favorite wrapping paper or stickers.
Finally, roll up some thick paper, push it into the case, and trim any excess—and you’re done!




