My Artwork Magnets

Our children enjoy doing a lot of process art (which focuses on exploring various techniques/materials and experimentation).  However, they often want to then take that art and make it into something else, particularly to keep.  This is one idea to share that work in appreciation of someone.  It adds a personal touch to a gift you give your child’s teacher to dress up their fridge at home or their filing cabinet, white board etc. in the classroom.  We made flowers, but you can cut out any shape you want, or even just dots (circles) would be graphically appealing!

This activity was featured on The Crafty Crow.  With summer approaching (or already here for some), find all sorts of fun there!

 http://www.thecraftycrow.net/2014/06/childrens-art-magnets.html

Materials

• Artwork (we created ours by using a watercolour wash over pastels, currently a favourite)
• Circle punch or a milk jug cap/pencil/scissors
• Glue gun
• Circular magnets (can be purchased at dollar or craft stores)
• Embroidery floss or twine
• Scissors
• Modge Podge (optional- just adds a shiny, polished finish)
• Paint brush
• Craft tray
• Smock
• Jewellery or similar type box

Directions

• Be sure that your child is okay with re-purposing a piece of their work or create something specifically for this activity.  We used diluted liquid watercolour over pastels.

• Cover the artwork with a thin layer of Modge Podge if you would like to have your magnets have a glossy finish to them.  Be sure to wash out your brush throughly when done and allow the work to dry overnight.

• Punch out circles or flip the work over and trace around a milk jug lid (on the back) to make circles to cut out.

• We experimented with a variety of techniques to make flowers on the magnets.  We put a circle on flat and then topped it with a circle that we cut from the edge to the centre (a radial cut) and then tucked one side over the other (see photograph), holding it together with a little dab of glue.  We also experimented with making four radial cuts and folding the paper or snipping cuts from the edge to the centre all the way around.  Be creative with this step and “make it your own”!

• We then took embroidery floss and wrapped it around our pointer and middle fingers and then tied it in the centre, creating a little bundle. Finish it by trimming the ends and gluing it to the centre of the flowers.

• Re-use a jewellery box by placing your magnets inside.

Purpose

• Developing fine motor skills, re-purposing items.

Safety Notes

• Magnets are choking hazards and are particularly dangerous if several are ingested.  Be cautious of this and seek medical attention should consumption occur.
• A glue gun is recommended for adult use.
• Follow the directions on products such as Modge Podge, using them in a well-ventilated area.
• Use scissors with care and adult supervision.