If you’re skipping the generic tie this year and aiming for something personal, these DIY Father’s Day gifts are going to be great inspiration for you! Whether you’ve got little kids ready to break out the glue sticks or you’re planning a more advanced project, these handmade gifts are thoughtful, practical, and easy to pull together. Most use materials you already have at home, and every one of them is made with love.
Looking for something sentimental? Useful? Kid-friendly? We’ve rounded up photo gifts, homemade cards, and personalized presents that work for every type of dad.
DIY Father’s Day Frame Gifts
A heartfelt photo frame is one of the easiest ways to give Dad a keepsake that he’ll treasure. These crafts range from toddler-friendly to impressive enough for older kids or adults, and they’re a great way to turn a simple photo into something special.
Father’s Day Photo Shoot + Rustic Frame
This simple wood frame from Make It & Love It is made from scrap wood and looks great with a sweet photo of the kids. Pair it with a backyard photo shoot to create one of the most meaningful Father’s Day gifts to make at home.
Dad Letter Cutout Frame
Try this creative frame from Unoriginal Mom, where letters are cut out to showcase your favorite photos whiel spelling out a special message for dad. It’s easy to make and perfect for a Father’s Day craft that feels totally unique.
“My Dad Rocks” Stone Picture Frame
This fun craft from Happily Eva After uses small rocks to decorate a picture frame. It’s great for toddlers or preschoolers to help with and makes a tactile, memorable gift that’s easy to display.
Salt Dough DAD Frame
Make your own keepsake with this salt dough photo frame from The Soccer Mom Blog. You’ll shape the dough into the word “DAD,” add a photo, and bake. It’s one of the best handmade Father’s Day crafts for little kids to help create.
DIY Father’s Day Cards
There’s nothing like a heartfelt message straight from the kids. These handmade Father’s Day cards are simple to make and full of charm, and they’re a perfect way to show Dad how much he’s appreciated.
Pop-Up Card
This 3D pop-up card from One Little Project is a fun paper craft for elementary-aged kids. It looks impressive but is easy to make with scissors, markers, and a bit of folding.
Suit and Tie Cards
Dress up your Father’s Day card with this clever shirt-and-tie design from Honey and Lime. Use patterned paper to give it personality and write a heartfelt message inside.
Confetti Cutout Card
Martha Stewart has a great roundup of card ideas, but this one’s our favorite. It’s a simple cutout card with a clear pocket for confetti that makes the whole thing feel festive and fun.
Personalized Gifts Dad Will Actually Use
If your dad loves practical gifts with a personal touch, these DIY ideas hit the mark. They’re creative, easy to customize, and actually useful, which makes them perfect for older kids or adults looking to make something a little more lasting.
Sharpie Mugs for Dad
Use a plain white mug and permanent markers to create a personalized message or drawing Dad can see every morning. Feeling Nifty’s tutorial shows you how to stencil a design and then bake it so it’ll last. It’s quick, creative, and great for kids.
DIY Toolbox
Build a small toolbox and fill it with garden gloves, seed packets, or his favorite tools. This idea from Family Handyman is perfect for handy dads and can double as a planter box if you want to get creative.
DIY Woodworking Projects
Looking for something a little more polished? Anika’s DIY Life shares several easy woodworking gift ideas for Father’s Day. From key holders to phone stands, these are gifts Dad will actually use. Bonus idea: if he loves woodworking, pair it with a personalized wood branding stamp from Etsy!
OR… don’t feel like going the DIY route, but love the idea of a personalized gift? Check out Forest Decor’s custom wood cutting boards. For dads that love to cook or just really appreciate some high quality craftmanship, these would be a great option. They sent me one of their olive wood salad bowls and it is gorgeous, so you just know the cutting boards have got to be great too!
You’ve Got This! Creative Father’s Day Gifts Start Here
Whether you’re making something heartfelt with the kids or crafting a surprise all your own, there’s nothing better than a handmade gift to celebrate Dad. And once you’ve finished your masterpiece, don’t forget the finishing touches! Try one of these DIY wrapping paper alternatives or get inspired by our creative gift bag ideas to present it in style. And if Dad’s the outdoorsy, project-loving type, you might also conider a project like these small storage shed ideas for a weekend projec together! Happy Father’s Day!
FAQs: DIY Father’s Day Gift Ideas
What’s a good last-minute DIY Father’s Day gift?
Try a Sharpie mug or a handmade card. Both are quick, easy, and can be made with items you likely already have at home.
What are good Father’s Day gifts kids can help make?
Salt dough frames, pop-up cards, and rock-decorated photo frames are great for younger kids. They’re simple, hands-on, and full of heart.
What can I make for Father’s Day that’s actually useful?
Personalized mugs, garden toolboxes, or woodworking gifts are all practical and meaningful. They’re things Dad can use every day and think of you while doing it.
How can I make a DIY Father’s Day gift feel more meaningful?
Add a photo, write a note, or reference a memory you share with Dad. Even the simplest project feels special when it’s made just for him.
