If you are looking for summer easy crafts for kids, this little cactus is perfect. It takes just a handful of items to make, and would be a fun project for a preschool, camp, or backyard birthday party.
My children made these little cacti years ago, and they’ve sat on a shelf in our kitchen ever since. They’re some of my very favorite projects they’ve ever brought home. There is something so cheerful about them that always makes me smile when I see them.
Materials to make your summer cactus
- 1 or 2 smooth rocks
- Green and white acrylic paint
- Paintbrushes (a fine bristle brush for the spines works best!)
- Sand (scoop some up during a summer beach trip)
- Short, wide mouth jar (I think we recycled a garlic jar)
How to make your cactus craft
First, make sure your rocks are clean and dry. Paint each rock green and set aside to dry.
While waiting for the green paint to dry, fill the jar with some clean sand. Don’t fill the jar too much or the sand will overflow when the rocks are pushed in.
Once your rocks are dry, push them into the sand so they are standing up. Draw on some short lines for spines using a fine tipped brush and a little white paint, and you’re all done.
Click here for summer watermelon handprint craft for kids
Where to find rocks for painting
Searching for rocks for your cactus project means a great opportunity for some time outside. Search your backyard, at the park or playground, or along streams. (Do not take rocks from National Parks!) If you can’t find any or are pressed for time, you can find rocks at the dollar store or craft store. They’re usually with the floral or wedding supplies.
For more summer easy crafts for kids to make, click here to check out our roundup post.
What are some of your favorite summer crafts and art projects? Tell us in the comments!
