This summer, Magnified! VBS 2025 invites kids to explore the bigness of God through the tiniest wonders of His creation. With the theme verse—“Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt his name together” (Psalm 34:3, NLT)—children will discover how even the smallest things point to our incredible Creator.
One of the most memorable parts of VBS is always craft time—and this year is no exception. While Lifeway offers official craft packs for each lesson, you can also create budget-friendly, DIY versions using affordable supplies from Amazon or your local dollar store.
Here’s a breakdown of key crafts, creative alternatives, and a place to drop in Amazon links (affiliate ready!).
✨ 1. Dragonfly Verse Reminder Craft
Theme Connection: Psalm 34:3 – “Made to Magnify God!”
Craft Concept: Children build a dragonfly using colorful beads and pipe cleaners, with each bead representing a word in the verse—making memorization visual and fun.
DIY Supplies:
- Pipe cleaners (variety of colors)
- Alphabet beads or write-on pony beads
- Googly eyes (optional)
Low-Cost Tip: Instead of pre-printed beads, let kids use permanent markers to write the words themselves—doubling the craft as a literacy activity.
💧 2. Raindrop Magnifier Craft
Theme Connection: God sees every detail.
Craft Concept: A raindrop-shaped paper frame with a “magnifying” window (plastic film or old lens) reminds kids that God sees even what we cannot.
DIY Supplies:
- Cardstock (blue tones or watercolor paper)
- Acetate sheets or clear plastic from packaging
- Magnifying lens (optional for fun!)
Low-Cost Tip: Use recycled packaging to cut costs. If magnifiers are too pricey, create a faux “lens” window and encourage pretend play.
🖼️ 3. Motto Wall Hanging Craft
Theme Connection: Displaying “Made to Magnify God!”
Craft Concept: A wall hanging or door sign with the VBS motto, decorated with nature-themed designs.
DIY Supplies:
- Cardboard, felt, or craft foam
- Yarn, ribbon, or string
- Printable “Made to Magnify God!” design or hand-lettered
- Natural items (leaves, pressed flowers)
Low-Cost Tip: Collect sticks or branches to serve as natural dowels. Kids can tie string to either end for a rustic hanging look.
🧩 4. Puzzle of Creation
Theme Connection: Each piece of creation fits into God’s big plan.
Craft Concept: A DIY puzzle where each piece represents something God made—animals, people, nature, etc.
DIY Supplies:
- Printable puzzle templates
- Markers or watercolor paints
- Glue sticks and scissors
Low-Cost Tip: Use cereal boxes as the puzzle base. Let kids design each piece and fit them together to form a mural.
🧬 5. God’s Fingerprint Craft
Theme Connection: God’s intricate design in all creation.
Craft Concept: A large fingerprint outline filled with tiny drawings or stickers representing creation—bugs, stars, leaves, animals.
DIY Supplies:
- Printed fingerprint outlines or draw-your-own
- Stickers or hand-drawn mini icons
- Colored pencils or markers
Low-Cost Tip: Turn this into a mural by taping everyone’s fingerprints together at the end of the week.
🛒 Bonus: Amazon Craft Bundles for Easy Prep
Here are a few low-cost alternatives you can bundle for multiple crafts:
✅ Pro Tips for Craft Success
- Prep Ahead: Pack individual bags for each day’s craft to save time.
- Flex for Ages: Pre-cut pieces for younger children; let older kids do more themselves.
- Make It Missional: Add tags or cards that kids can give away to share what they learned about God.
- Use What You Have: Don’t overlook recyclables—egg cartons, toilet rolls, and cereal boxes can turn into masterpieces.
💡 Final Thoughts
“Magnified!” VBS isn’t just about learning—it’s about experiencing the joy and awe of discovering God’s fingerprints in everything around us. These low-cost crafts help children interact with the truth that even the smallest things reflect God’s greatness.
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting our ministry by using these links! 🌿
