Gifts to Make for Boys

Handmade Gift Ideas for Boys

Whether you simply enjoy crafting or need to save some cash, it’s fun to give something that has a handmade touch rather than buying yet another toy in plastic packaging. Here are 24 ideas for homemade gifts that boys will go for. Of course girls will enjoy these ideas too! This is not meant to be exclusive but rather a resource for parents and grandparents who are looking for boy gift ideas.

Dress Up

1. If you enjoy sewing, this fleece knight hat is adorable! My boys would love the fact that it’s soft and comfortable and won’t fall off. There’s a free pattern in the post.

2. How sweet is this dino hoodie? Head over to See Vanessa Craft for the instructions.

3. Young superheroes will enjoy these no-sew superhero costumes! This post from Twin Dragonfly Designs has free patterns for Ironman, Batman, Spiderman, and more.

4. Here is a tutorial for a superhero cape. I like the fact that this cape has satin or cotton fabric on one side instead of all knit. If you use all knit for a cape, the neck will stretch and stretch and stretch. I don’t recommend it!

5. And one more non-knit fabric superhero cape.

Pretend Play

6. I ADORE this dinosaur world in a suitcase from The Imagination Tree.

7. Or make a dinosaur world play mat out of felt – love this idea from Fun at Home with Kids.

8. Felt is such a frugal crafting material. Make some felt play food – these designs from And Next Comes L are amazing!

9. Make a PVC pipe play tent. Sew your own cover, or just use a sheet.

10. This life-size play dashboard from And Next Comes L is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers! So fun.

11. Preschoolers and older kids alike will enjoy these wooden peg ninjas! Perfect stocking filler.

12. These mason jar superhero banks from Fireflies and Mudpies are really awesome looking, and not expensive to make.

13. If you have a daughter you must check out this doll in a box gift from Red Ted Art! My mom has already purchased the book to make one for Janie when she’s older. For a boy, a little dog in a box would be fun – with a bowl, leash, and toy? Or maybe a pet stuffed snake in a box?

For Builders and Tinkerers

14. Put together a kit of craft sticks, rubber bands, and plastic cups or small wooden blocks. Then show your child how to make these awesome chain reactions!

15. If you’ve seen the beautiful rainbow colored building blocks available from high-end toy retailers, check out these rainbow blocks from Fun at Home with Kids! You can make them yourself for a fraction of the cost.

16. Put together a marble run set for your little builder. These parts will be used again and again to build different configurations!

17. Do your kids’ Legos need some organization? Upcycle IKEA storage into this awesome Lego table!

18. These nature blocks are perfect for play with toy animals.

19. There are lots of ideas out there for Legos-on-the-go, but I really like this Portable Lego Kit from Mama. Papa. Bubba.

DIY Toys

20. These patterns are not free, but this crocheted dog is adorable!

21. Make a PVC pipe marshmallow blow gun. Add a bag of mini marshmallows, and it’s a great gift!

22. This Hot Wheels Car Jar would look great in a bedroom, and could be given with or without cars inside. Find the tutorial here at Simplicity in the South. (The post is about a bedroom re-do – keep scrolling, the jars are in there!)

23. Construct a sensory play wall with funnels and tubes. (Our boys love this – it has seen a LOT of use!)

24. The Frugal Granny has a post about turning a thrift store nightstand into a workbench. Love it!

I’ll be back later this week with ideas that kids can make and give to adults or to other kids!