When choosing activities for older kids, I try to link it to fine art where I can. Exposing children to art appreciation doesn’t have to be on a field trip to a museum, although I recommend that too. This fine art craft would make a beautiful gift for a mom or grandma for Mother’s Day, especially if you made a group of 3 or 4 and put it in a nice box.
Fine Art Craft Magnet
- Gather your materials. You will need glass beads, magnets, rubber cement, a pencil, pictures of your choice, and also scissors. *I just want to say that I am not ruining a perfectly good book. I received a duplicate and have been saving it for art projects.
- First, start by choosing your pictures. If you are using an art book, this will give your child a chance to look through many choices. Additionally, it also gives you a chance to ask them what they like, and of course, why or why not.
- Trace your bead over the picture with a pencil.
- Next, carefully cut out the image from the page.
- Cover the bottom of the bead with rubber cement. Not too thick, but it needs a nice layer of glue, because of the weight of the magnet.
- Next, add your picture to the bottom of the bead, showing through the glass.
- Finally, glue your magnet on and let dry. Your fine art craft magnet is ready for display!
If you are new to No Time For Flash Cards, Naptime Creations are for school-age children. These special activities are not for toddlers or preschoolers. 
susanigan's says
I can’t wait to try this! You projects are so fun and my son loves doing them.
Miller Moments says
What a great idea! You are so clever. 🙂
Beverly says
love it!
Kimberly says
Wow! What a creative idea..and just in time for Mother’s Day 🙂
Ohana Mama says
Love it Allie! Thanks!
fairyflutters says
I love this idea. I’m going to look at the Goodwill for some art books as soon as I can. 🙂
Amy @ Literacy Launchpad says
Great post! I’ve seen this idea somewhere, and I’ve been saving cute patterns I see on magazine advertisements and such. Now I need to just go ahead and make ’em!
Tanya says
I did this a few years ago using photos (cut out just the face) and rubber stamped designs. A few tips: Make sure you use strong glue for the magnet, or they will fall off after not too long, as the glass marbles are heavy. A hot glue gun or E6000 (found at craft stores) both work well. Also, for presentation, I modpodged a small metal Altoids tin and put them in there. My mother and sister loved them!
Allie says
Tanya thank you so much for the tips! I have been gifted so many of these over the years but never made one til now.
PS~Erin says
What a great idea! You have SO many fun activities. Looking forward to doing them with my 6 yr old and 21 month old. Thanks!
I shared this one on my blog today:
http://www.perfectsentiment.blogspot.com/
Erin
Diane says
Just followed your directions & made these w/my kids' photos as gifts for the grandmas'. Thanks 🙂