Creating your own awards can be a fun and rewarding way to show appreciation for those special people in your life. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to recognize someone’s efforts, these DIY award ideas are sure to impress.
1. Crafty Paper Trophies
With some cardstock and a bit of creativity, you can craft delightful paper trophies. I once made these for a family game night, and they were a hit!
2. Eco-Friendly Awards
For a sustainable twist, use repurposed materials like old magazine pages to craft unique awards. It’s a beautiful way to honor someone while respecting the environment.
3. Chalkboard Plaques
Using small chalkboards, you can create awards that allow for easy personalization. These are especially fun for events that have multiple winners.
4. Personalized Plaques
Using wooden boards or recycled materials, you can create plaques that are as meaningful as they are beautiful. A little paint and a personal message go a long way.
5. 3D Printed Trophies
If you have access to a 3D printer, the sky’s the limit! You can design and print trophies that are as intricate or simple as you like.
6. Theme-Based Awards
Design awards that fit a specific theme, like a movie night or a beach party. These can be as fun and whimsical as your imagination allows.
7. Felt Badge Awards
Craft felt badges that recipients can wear proudly. They’re easy to make and add a playful element to any ceremony.
8. Origami Accolades
Create intricate origami designs to use as awards. They’re a delightful surprise and can be tailored to fit any theme.
9. Ribbon Awards
Award ribbons made from felt and ribbon can be customized for any occasion. I love adding quirky titles to mine, like ‘Best Hug Giver’.
10. Customized Certificates
Use online templates to create certificates that look professionally done. Add a personal message and a frame for a polished finish.
11. Clay Medals
Using air-dry clay, you can mold medals that feel substantial and personal. I made some for a friend’s backyard Olympics, and they were a fun keepsake.
12. Pressed Flower Frames
Capture the beauty of nature with awards made from pressed flowers in frames. They’re a gorgeous way to honor someone special.
13. Vintage Spoon Awards
Turn vintage spoons into quirky awards by adding engraved or stamped messages. These have a charming, old-world feel that everyone loves.
14. Upcycled Glass Jar Awards
Transform old glass jars into elegant awards by decorating them with paint and ribbons. Fill them with notes of appreciation for a heartfelt touch.
15. Doodle Art Awards
If you love to doodle, create award certificates with your own art. It’s a personal and creative way to show appreciation.
16. Photo Awards
Incorporate photos into your awards for a personal touch. I once used this idea for a scrapbook-themed award, and it was a sentimental favorite.
17. Painted Stone Medals
Collect stones from your garden and paint them with metallic paint for unique and weighty medals. It’s an unexpected but delightful idea!

