MAKE IT CUTE

Between studying for finals, attending grad parties galore and planning for all your summer vacays, we're gonna take a wild guess that shopping for Father's Day has fallen to the back burner.

Father's Day is coming up fast (this Sunday!), but don't sweat it if you haven't found the perfect gift yet. We've compiled some simple DIY presents (with affordable materials) that your dad is sure to love.

Coffee mug

@peachandplums__

Every morning, you wake up to your dad brewing his coffee, so he would most likely love a new mug that reminds him of you. Grab a plain white ceramic mug and some Sharpie markers or acrylic paints. Paint/draw on your mug, let it dry for about 24 hours and then place it in the oven for 30 minutes at 350 degrees to lock in the design.

If you don't have time for this DIY project before Father's Day, another great gift option is a dad-daughter trip to your local pottery studio. You'll be able to spend some quality time together *and* decorate matching mugs while you're there—that's a win-win for everyone!

BBQ apron

@glasschalk

Father's Day is the perfect day for a BBQ dinner, and imagine how cool it would be if your dad is able to wear this custom apron while he's grilling burgers for the fam! Purchase a simple white apron, some fabric markers and/or fabric paint. Use the markers to draw something that your dad likes (think: football, cars, books) and write sweet messages to show your love. The fabric paint is perfect for adding a personal touch (you're never too old for painted handprints!) and bringing more color to your designs.

Keychain

@cariissima

Let's face it: Your dad's keychain is probably pretty boring and in major need of some revamping. Pull out the Rainbow Loom kit from your closet and follow some YouTube tutorials to create super cute charms that will look perfect on the keyring. You can also use some string and jewelry beads to make a simple keychain or use shrink-plastic sheets, colored pencils and a hole punch to make some unique designs.

Friendship bracelet

@beadthrillz

Remember all those extra beads and strings you have left over after making dozens of friendship bracelets for the Eras Tour? Time to put them to use!

Pick your dad's favorite colors and make a simple friendship bracelet he can wear every day. Paired with a handmade card and some of his favorite candy, this will be the perfect gift to show your love!

Phone case

@nailsbyzaina

The one thing your dad is basically guaranteed to use every day is his phone, so why not make a cute case to protect it? Get a clear phone case (make sure you double-check the model of your dad's phone first!) and collect some images to make a collage. These can include pics of your fam, sporty stickers or an aesthetic view of his fave vacay spot. Glue all of the images onto a piece of paper (measure and cut it so that it fits the case) and then glue it to the inside of the case. His phone will look better than ever!

Picture frame

@creatingcreatives

This classic gift is timeless for a reason—your dad will love having a photo of you on his desk! Buy a simple wooden frame and then use your creativity to spruce it up. You can use some acrylic paint to coat the base in his fave color before moving on to some more intricate designs (how about some stars or leaves?). Stickers are also a great option, and you can always glue on those seashells you collected for a great final product.

Psst: Don't forget to pick out your fave pic (or even make a collage) to go inside the frame!

Take a pic of your DIY gifts and tag us on IG @girlslifemag!

Want more DIY inspo? Check out these posts:
🎨How to make your own candles
🎨4 DIYs you need for a Pinterest girls' night in
🎨4 ways to jazz up your phone for the summer

Top image: @sarahhyland
Slider image: @peachandplums__
GIF via Giphy

by Maggie Salter | 6/13/2024