Crafts may really have their moment in preschool, but the truth is, there is no age limit when it comes to crafting. In fact, folks would be remiss if they gave up on crafts with age, as studies have shown that crafts for seniors boast a number of health benefits, including improving fine motor function, learning abilities and problem solving, as well as providing inner satisfaction and self-confidence. Also, they’re fun.
Whether you’re looking for relaxing ways to unwind at the end of the day or want to have a few creative ideas on hand for a loved one or client, check out our list of craft activities for seniors. All are low-frustration, affordable and yield incredibly sweet results.
Easy crafts for seniors
From minor sewing projects to simple paper flowers, below find 17 cute craft activities for seniors.
1. Decorative garden stakes
These decorative garden stakes from the always-crafty Crafts by Amanda are a relaxing activity to do while chatting, having tea or watching a favorite show. And the result — need we say it? — is gorgeous.
2. Fabric peaches
For folks with some basic sewing knowledge (or a willingness to learn), these fabric peaches from A Wonderful Thought are a nice activity. You’ll need to gather some supplies (think fabric, filling, etc.), but once you have what you need, it’s pretty simple.
3. Egg carton lavender
Almost as pretty as the real thing! This egg carton lavender craft from Crafts by Ria is both an easy crafts for seniors and one they’ll be able to display for a long time to come — and unlike real lavender, which, yes, smells amazing, no mess when it starts to dry out!
4. Mini felt roses
How cute are these mini felt roses from Crafty Marie?! While a needle and thread is required for this craft (and felt, obviously), there really is practically no actual sewing involved.
5. Succulent fish bowl craft
According to Laisamarilis Rosado, this succulent fish bowl craft only takes about 10 minutes to make, but the older adults she works with “wouldn’t stop talking about it.” We see why!
6. Mosquito repellent candles
Got a favorite porch or outdoor area? Then these mosquito repellent candles from Hunny I’m Home are the perfect craft idea. Not much is involved in creating these in terms of crafting — just some snipping and cutting — which makes it great for older adults with a low-frustration tolerance.
7. Tissue paper flowers
One of the easiest crafts for seniors on our list, these tissue paper flowers from Viki Studio Crafts are truly so simple to make, in addition to being super cheap and yielding a cheerful result. Definitely a keeper.
8. Folded book vase
Holy moly, what a great idea! To make this folded book vase from It’s Always Autumn, you don’t need much more than an old book and some adhesive. These would look great displayed on a mantel or in a bedrom.
9. Star banner
For a super simple craft that’s great for seniors with mobility issues, consider these star banners from Time to Twin It. They can be made with neutral colors for an all-year-long decoration, or tailored to specific holidays.
10. Flower painted rocks
Can you think of a more perfect way to while away a day than painting? These flower painted rocks from Rock Painting Guide are super cute, but really, folks can paint whatever they’re feeling inspired to paint.
11. “Tie dye” bookmarks
Bookmark crafts are always a great idea, but these tie dye bookmarks from Paint Palettee give a cool watercolor spin. Or, of course, you could just paint whatever you’d like on them!
12. Hedgehog book craft
Few things on our list are cuter than this positively adorable hedgehog book craft from Pink Stripe Socks. And again, not much is required to create this cute little creature.
13. Paperclip basket
Talk about clever. This paperclip basket from the upcycling craft account, Old 2 Kool New, is a great way to make use of an old tin can, some paperclips and whatever twine or string you have hanging around.
14. Felt wreath with twigs
Sometimes you just need to class it up a bit, and this felt wreath with twigs from North Story and Co. does just that. Some fine motor skills are involved for this craft, so it’s best for older adults without mobility issues.
15. Mini bouquets
Another great idea from Paint Palettee is this mini bouquet card. All you need are some fake flowers and a piece of cardboard and voila! Home decor at your fingertips!
16. Firefly keychains
Guess what? These firefly keychains from Mad in Crafts — which are super adorable — aren’t just sweet little trinkets to create, they also glow in the dark. What a great surprise.
17. Scrap paper flowers
If you’ve got extra paper scraps lying around, as well as a paper plate, then you’ve got what you need to throw together these easy-peasy scrap paper flowers from Holton Manner.
