Thursday, January 20, 2011

Matching game for kids {How-to}

Have any leftover bead board sitting around? Here's a fun way to make a simple matching game for your kids. I am part of a MOPS (Mom's of Preschoolers) group. We meet twice a month. Sometimes we listen to speakers, and other times we make a craft. This was our craft today...so easy, and so fun!

What you need:
~ Mod podge
~ Sponge brush
~ Scissors
~ 16-20 pre-cut 2 X 2 in. bead board (or any other wood-type material). Whatever you use, make sure it has smooth edges and won't give splinters...ouchie.
~ Scrapbook paper of various prints and colors
~ Symbols, letters, numbers or pictures printed from your computer (used to make the "matches")

I don't have step-by-step pics, but here's a quick how-to list:

1) Cut scrapbook paper the size of the bead board squares. Make sure you have 2 matching colors for each "pair". This will be the background. Your letter, symbol, or picture will go on top of the patterned paper. Make sense?



2) Using your sponge brush, spread a thin amount of Mod Podge on the back of the paper to glue it to the flat side of the bead board. Then spread another thin amount over the top to "seal" it on. Make sure you go over the edges so it won't peel off later on. Do the same thing with your letter, number, symbol or picture. Seal it with another thin layer on top.



3) Once all the squares a finished and dry, flip them over. Pick ONE pattern of paper to use for the bumpy side, and cut them out to fit without covering the grooves. Mod Podge the same as above, making sure to seal the edges. Let dry.




 4) Next, make a cute bag to hold your new game! I'm sure you can find plain ones at Hobby Lobby or Michael's. Not sure where these were purchased. But, once you find one....simply dress it up with some fabric markers! I went pretty basic. I'm sure you are all much more creative :)





 Happy crafting!

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