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 🙂