Magnet Frames

There's something wonderful about children's artwork. The lack of inhibition, the use of colors, the pride they show when they've completed something all on their own - all priceless. Whether they paint, color, or just scribble doodles, art is important to them and of course important to you.

While kitchen fridge's can get overrun with papers from school, arts and crafts projects, and more, this magnet frame allows one 8 ½" x 11" painting per child to be displayed proudly and can be coordinated with your décor, or, custom painted by each child.  It's a great way to spend an afternoon with a child - making their own frame in which to place their artwork and collages.  And, because it's painted, you can re-do it several times with a couple more coats of paint.

Plus, I've given you lots and lots of tips and variations for making these magnets one-of-a-kind pieces of art as well.  There are so many ways of doing this frame, basically, I've given you a starting point to run with YOUR creativity?.have fun making art with your child.  The proud look on their face is really one of life's little pleasures.  Priceless.

You'll Need:

• 1 1'x2' magnet sheet (sold at craft stores)
• Paint - two colors

Tools Needed:

• Scissors
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Craft knife
• Self-healing cutting mat
• Sponge brush
• No. 2 paintbrush
• Newsprint for protecting work surface.

Instructions:

1. Cut a 12" x 14 ½" piece from large magnet sheet. Measure inside cutting line 2 1/4" from all sides (See Fig. 1, right); cut inside rectangle out with craft knife on cutting mat.
2. Cut outside edge as desired. Use sponge brush to paint two coats of paint on frame, allowing paint to dry between coats. Use No. 2 paintbrush to freehand embellishments in second color of paint.

Designer Tips and Variations:

• Make frames in all different shapes and sizes to frame photos, report cards, or invitations.
• With leftover strips of magnets, embellish and use them for larger pieces of art securing paper at top, bottom and sides.
• Glue pompons, chenille stems, and other embellishments to frame edges.
• Punch out motifs using scrapbook paper punches.
• Cut edges of frame with specialty edge scissors.
• Personalize each frame by painting each child's name on it with a paint pen.
• Cut a piece of fake fur the same size as the frame and glue it to the magnet frame.
• Add die-cut paper cutouts in a favorite hobby or theme.
• Stamp or stencil frame with a special motif or saying.
• Paint faces on the frame and attach google eyes.
• Allow your child to place favorite stickers on frame.

• Tip: Just make sure to use lightweight and somewhat flexible materials on the frame. Heavy items will weight the frame down - large rigid items will cause the magnet to tear.

by Kelley R. Taylor for CreatingHomeDecor

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