7 Last-Minute DIY and Homemade Father's Day Gift Ideas

This year, think outside the (tool) box with a handmade Father's Day gift idea that you and your kids can enjoy creating together. 

Not an arts and crafts expert? No problem. There's no need to go the extra mile to create a great DIY Father's Day gift that Dad will surely love.

Check out our seven favorite homemade Father's Day gifts, rounded up below.

1. Homemade card

Let's start with the classic: a DIY card. Grab some fun craft supplies from Michaels, Target, or Amazon, and spend an afternoon drawing pictures, writing notes, and getting creative.

Better yet, pair your handmade card with a gift card for Dad's favorite store (such as The Home Depot, Bass Pro Shops, DICK'S Sporting Goods, or REI) or experiences (think Topgolf, Dave & Buster's, or Stubhub for concerts or sporting events).

Source: Creative Fabrica

2. Edible gifts 

Spend time in the kitchen whipping up Dad's favorite food or meals. This could mean breakfast in bed or snacks with decorated homemade packaging. 

For the latter, try this idea: Apply large blank labels to mason jars or reusable containers. Then, fill them with a mix of snacks that Dad loves, such as: 

• Seasoned popcorn or nuts
• Energy bites or balls
• Decorated iced cookies
• Nut butters
• Dried fruits or vegetables

Source: Haute & Healthy Living

3. DIY coasters

For a creative and practical handmade gift Dad can use daily, try making drink coasters. You can personalize this homemade Father's Day present with family photos, Dad's favorite sport or team, scrapbook paper patterns, or a fun phrase or inside joke. 

Use cork or wood for custom art, or ceramic tiles for photo coasters. Start by creating a design to fit the dimensions of your coaster (approximately 4x4"). Next, apply a layer of Mod Podge to the coaster before carefully placing your design or photo on top. Then, apply another layer of Mod Podge to seal the design and allow it to dry completely. 

4. Custom crossword puzzle 

Does Dad enjoy puzzles, trivia, or games? Consider making a custom crossword puzzle—you don't have to spend a dime on this DIY Father's Day gift. 

Try a free tool like CrosswordLabs.com, where you can plug in your questions and answers and create, save, and print your crossword.

Consider Q&As that revolve around: 

• Facts about his childhood or stories about his life
• His favorite hobbies, books, TV shows, movies, and celebrities
• Details about friends and family members
• Lessons he's taught you, from tying your shoes to changing a tire
• Momentous occasions or core memories that your family shares 

5. Personalized apron 

For this homemade Father's Day gift, choose a plain white apron made of heavy canvas or other protective material with a pocket or two. Then, devise a silly slogan, title, or pun, and decorate it with fabric markers, paint, heat transfers, or iron-on letters. 

Source: That's What Che Said

6. Fancy award show 

"World’s Best Dad" is a great honor to give Dad on Father’s Day, but how about adding some pomp and circumstance?

Create a custom award that celebrates Dad for how he shows up for your family. Some ideas include: 

• The Golden Hammer—Spray-paint a hammer gold and affix it to a wooden plaque
• Awesomeness Certification—Draw, sign, and frame a certificate with a custom message
• 1st Place Trophy—Repurpose a thrift store trophy with paint and a new placard

If you or your kids love performing or putting on a show at home, you can also host an awards night event at home. Have the kids take pictures like paparazzi, formally present the award, and demand a speech from the recipient to make Dad feel extra special. 

7. Handmade car wash coupons

Give Dad the gift of an afternoon off!

Create a homemade car wash gift certificate (or a booklet with multiple coupons). Include bonus coupons for interior deep-cleaning or other household chores like minor repairs, painting, or yard work.