MAKE IT CUTE

Whether you want to get your dad something super special or you're ballin' on a budget, DIY gifts are always a great way to make something unique and thoughtful! Skip the *hours* of scrolling on TikTok for creative craft ideas. Instead, check out our list of simple do-it-yourself ideas that your dad will love, no matter his interests. From your fave shared car jams to daily morning coffee, we've got you covered.

1. Mixtape

@zoativi im shaking so much 😢😢 #mixtape #mixtapecover #cd #aesthetic #straykids #deftones #lamp #tool ♬ the perfect pair - beabadoobee

Time needed: 15 minutes

On Saturday mornings when you and your dad are driving to Starbucks, what's blasting? Is he a total Swiftie or more into '80s rock? Either way, a playlist is the perfect sentimental gift to make any music lover, and they're surprisingly simple. Want to spice up your playlist? Put it on a CD so you can blast it during your next road trip! All you need is a case, a blank CD, a computer and some arts and crafts skills. You can collage the cover or print out a picture of the two of you. You can even add a scannable Spotify code to the playlist you made. 

2. Keychain

@studiotomby A silly lil craft night for my last day in brooklyn 😌 #craft #diy #shrinkydink #craftnight #diykeychain #frienddate ♬ Obituary - Alexandre Desplat

Time needed: 5-10 minutes

And while you're riding shotgun with your hair undone, jamming out to the new mixtape, gift Dad with a custom, one-of-a-kind (designed by *you*) keychain. If you've got an old set of keys hangin' around, take off the ring, and you're good to go. If you can't find a chain, use ribbon or an old lanyard. You can put anything on it: bottle tabs, friendship beads, or something you drew on shrinky dink paper. The possibilities are endless!

3. Mug

@shannonvalente We made sharpie mugs! #diy #diycraft #diyproject #tiktokdiy #kidscraft #boho ♬ In The End - Mellen Gi Remix - Tommee Profitt & Fleurie & Mellen Gi

Time needed: 30 minutes (to bake)

Surprise your Dad on Father's Day by bringing him his fave coffee, tea or hot cocoa in a one-of-a-kind mug! Forget the #1 DAD mugs—grab a plain ceramic mug plus some Sharpies and doodle whatever you're feeling. An inside joke? A pic of your pup? Put it in the oven at 250 degrees for 30 minutes, let it cool...and now your mug is good as new!

4. Salt dough picture frame

@abcdeelearning Salt Dough Handprint #kidsartsandcrafts #kidsart #kidsactivities #kidspainting #artsandcrafts #kidscrafts #father #fathersday #gift #giftideas #recipe #crafts ♬ Come and Get Your Love (Single Version) - Redbone

Time needed: One hour (to bake)

Instead of giving your dad a boring, old picture for his desk, why not make him a custom frame instead? Salt dough frames are adorable and easy to make: You just need to mix together two cups of flour, one cup of salt and one cup of water. Mold it into a fun shape and put it into the oven for 45 minutes. And ofc, don't forget to paint it. Print a pic of you two, and this gift is sure to put a smile on his face.

5. A coupon book

Time needed: 10 minutes

Even with all these super cute gift ideas, what dads *really* love is spending time with their girls. Mix it up by giving Dad a coupon book filled with ideas and activities: A free hug, a trip to the movies or a pass on doing the dishes are all things that would totally make for the sweetest gift yet. You just need some paper and pens to decorate your coupons. Staple it together and give Dad his much-needed R&R with his fave daughter.

If you make any of these DIYS, be sure to tag @girlslifemag!

All GIFS via Giphy

by Haley Kramer | 6/18/2023