Hands-On Crafts: Make a Magnetic Calendar

The new year is almost here, and for most people that means a new calendar. But instead of buying a 2008 calendar, you and your kids can follow these directions to make a perpetual calendar that can be used over and over again for years to come. The key to the calendar is a grid that can be used for any month in any year just by switching the magnetic month headings and moving the magnetic numbers. Because it lasts forever, and  starts whenever you need it to, this special kid-made calendar is a perfect gift for any season or a great project to keep kids busy during their school break.

Ages: 5 to 12


Time: two to four hours


Skills Required: painting, drawing, writing and measuring


Materials: metal cookie sheet, acrylic paints, paintbrush, sponge (if desired), ruler, pencil, permanent ink markers, craft foam, scissors, craft glue and magnets (strips, sheets or disks are available at craft stores)


Directions:


1. Paint the cookie sheet with acrylic craft paint. Acrylics are thick, fast-drying paints that can stain clothes and furniture, so make sure your work area and clothing are protected before you begin. Use any color, design or pattern to paint the cookie sheet. A fun technique is to try painting with a sponge. You can sponge paint one color or layer several complimentary colors for an interesting look. Let the paint dry thoroughly.


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