Father's Day Handprint Craft Ideas and Activities: Meaningful Gifts from Kids
A Father's Day handprint craft is the perfect activity if you're looking for a fun and heartfelt way to celebrate Father's Day or a dad's birthday. There's something incredibly special about preserving those tiny hands in a piece of art that Dad can treasure forever. In this blog post, we'll explore a variety of Father's Day activities and gifts from kids, with a special focus on handprint crafts that you can create together at home. Plus, I’ve included a free template you can download to make the process even easier!
Why a Father's Day Handprint Craft Is the Perfect Gift from kids
A Father's Day handprint craft captures a moment in time. Whether your child is still a baby or already in elementary school, their handprint is unique to this stage in their life. Gifting a personalized handprint craft to Dad (or Grandpa!) makes the holiday feel even more meaningful. These crafts are budget-friendly, simple, and make a big emotional impact.
Even better? Kids love creating them! It's a hands-on activity that sparks creativity, bonding time, and laughter—all the ingredients for a memorable Father's Day.
Working together on crafts helps children improve fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and artistic confidence. For parents, it’s a great opportunity to slow down, spend quality time, and have meaningful conversations while doing something creative.
Free Father’s Day Handprint Craft Templates
To make your celebration stress-free, I’ve created two free printable Father's Day handprint craft templates. They’re designed to be easy for kids to use and fun for dads to receive.
The first one is editable in Canva. The second one is a PDF file ready to use. When ready, just print them out, add paint to your kid's hand, foot or finger, to add the handprint, and voila—you have keepsakes that Dad will want to frame.
👉 [Download your PDF free handprint craft templates here]
👉 [Download your Canva free handprint craft templates here]
These templates include:
Ready to use handprint crafts printable designs,
A sunburst handprint editable design with a space to insert your child’s photo and the phrase "Daddy, you light up my world."
Want to take your Father's Day handprint craft to the next level?
Add a photo of your child to the center of the artwork. It instantly turns the project into a more personal keepsake that Dad will treasure. The “You Light Up My World” handprint sun template was made exactly for this purpose—just add a photo in Canva or print and add a printed photo of your little one, and watch the magic happen.
How to Personalize Your Father's Day Handprint Craft
Adding a personal touch turns your craft into a treasured keepsake.
Here are a few simple ways to personalize your handprint gifts:
Name and Date – Write your child’s name and the year under the handprint.
Short Messages – Have your child write (or dictate) a sweet note like “I love you, Dad!”
Favorite Colors – Let your child pick paint in Dad’s favorite colors or use rainbow shades for fun.
Doodles and Drawings – Encourage your child to decorate the background with hearts, stars, or a drawing of Dad.
These small additions make the craft feel even more thoughtful and unique.
Step-by-Step: How to Use the Handprint Craft Template
Print the Template – Use a high-quality printer and sturdy paper like cardstock.
Prepare the Paint – Choose washable, non-toxic paint in Dad’s favorite colors.
Apply the Handprint – Help your child press their hand firmly onto the paper.
Add a Photo (optional) – For the sunburst design, edit the design using Canva or cut and paste a child’s photo in the center.
Let it Dry – Set the craft aside to dry completely.
Add Finishing Touches – Let your child write their name, a sweet message, or even draw little doodles.
Optional: Laminate the final piece or place it in a frame for a polished look.
Other Father’s Day Handprint Craft Ideas
If you’d like to explore beyond the printables, here are more creative Father’s Day handprint craft ideas that make wonderful gifts:
1. Handprint “High Five” Card
Fold a piece of cardstock in half and trace your child’s hand on the front. Write “High Five, Dad!” and fill the inside with a personal message and drawings.
2. Handprint Tie Decoration
Cut a large tie shape from poster board and decorate it with colorful handprints. Write “You’re TIE-rific!” across the front.
3. Handprint Grill Master Apron
Buy a blank apron and use fabric paint to stamp your child’s handprint along with the phrase “Grill Master – Powered by Little Hands.”
4. Framed Poem with Handprints
Print or write a short poem about Dad and add handprints on either side. Frame it for a lasting memory.
5. “Helping Hands” Coupon Book
Create a mini-book with a handprint on the cover. Inside, include coupons offering to help Dad with tasks like walking the dog, doing dishes, or washing the car.
More Fun Father’s Day Activities from Kids
A Father’s Day handprint craft can be part of a full day of love and appreciation.
Here are some other activities kids can enjoy with Dad:
1. DIY Backyard Picnic
Spread a blanket, pack some sandwiches, and enjoy the sunshine. Kids can help prep the food and create a handwritten menu.
2. Scavenger Hunt for Dad
Set up a mini scavenger hunt with notes and small gifts hidden around the house or yard. Include the handprint craft as the final prize!
Want to learn how to create your own scavenger hunt and sell it? They sell great on Etsy and other marketplaces!
Find out more here
3. “Interview Dad” Session
Record a video where your kids ask Dad funny or meaningful questions. It’s a great way to capture special memories.
4. Family Game Night
Let Dad pick his favorite games or movies. Add popcorn and root beer floats for a festive twist.
5. Make Breakfast Together
Have the kids help make a special breakfast. Pancakes in the shape of hearts or spelling out “DAD” are always a hit!
Tips for Crafting with Kids
Creating a Father’s Day handprint craft is fun, but here are a few extra tips to keep things smooth and stress-free:
Dress for Mess – Use old clothes or aprons.
Cover Surfaces – Lay down newspaper or a plastic tablecloth.
Keep Wipes Handy – Paint can get everywhere, fast!
Let Kids Take the Lead – Embrace the imperfections—they add charm!
Celebrate Every Dad
Not every family looks the same, and Father’s Day is a chance to celebrate all kinds of father figures: stepdads, grandfathers, uncles, godfathers, or even moms who play both roles. A Father's Day handprint craft can be a meaningful way to show love and appreciation to anyone who fills a “dad” role in your child’s life.
Final Thoughts: Create, Laugh, and Celebrate
Whether your Father’s Day celebration is big or small, what matters most is the love behind the gesture.
A Father's Day handprint craft is more than a gift—it’s a memory, a giggle, a bonding moment, and something your kids will look back on and feel proud of.
Don’t forget to download your free handprint craft templates and have a blast creating something Dad will treasure forever.
Don't forget your FREE Cleaning Binder!
