Dear Anissa,
My 13-year-old daughter used to love making things but now calls it babyish and scrolls TikTok instead. I want to encourage her creativity without pushing too hard. Ideas?
— Mom of a Growing Artist in Utah
Dear Mom of a Growing Artist,
The teen shift from “crafts are fun” to “crafts are lame” is so common—it’s often about feeling “grown-up” and wanting things that feel personal, edgy, or shareable. The key is upgrading the activity to match her current vibe without losing the joy of making.
Try these “adult-teen” twists on classics:
Custom phone grips/stands — Use air-dry clay or resin with embedded charms, initials, or tiny LED lights for glow effects.
Embroidered hoodies or denim jackets — Start with iron-on patches or simple hand-embroidery (floral or minimalist designs are huge on TikTok).
Resin keychains or earrings — Mix in glitter, dried flowers, or photos for personalized accessories.
Keep it low-pressure: “I saw this cool resin trend—want to try one together while we watch something?” Show her YouTube tutorials for modern versions. If she bites, suggest making extras for friends or selling a few on Depop/Etsy for pocket money.
Her creativity isn’t gone—it’s just evolving. Give her ownership, and she’ll rediscover the spark on her terms.
Warmly,
Anissa