Ladybug and Bumble Bee Puzzle Pieces Refrigerator Magnets

Last weekend my 2 grandchildren came over for a crafting with Nanny date. We decided to make ladybug and bumble bee refrigerator magnets using old puzzle pieces! Along with cardboard puzzle pieces, you’ll need acrylic craft paints and a few other basic supplies. Here’s how to make them.

LadyBug and Bumble Bee Puzzle Pieces Refrigerator Magnets

Cardboard Puzzle Pieces
Acrylic Craft Paint – Red, Black, Yellow, and White
Paint Brush, Water Dish, Paper Towels
All-Purpose, Quick-Drying Craft Glue
Magnets

Sort through the old puzzle pieces to find ones that look similar to the ones in our photograph. You need one portion to have the “knobby” end which will serve as the head.

Base coat the pieces with either red or yellow acrylic craft paint (depending on the insect that you’re making). We like painting on the cardboard, unfished side of the piece. We needed 2 coats of paint to get the desired coverage with 30 minutes of drying time between coats.

Once they’re base coated it’s time to decorate them. You’ll need to refer to the photograph for placement, but it’s basic features. You can get fancier if you’re an adult painter with artistic skills. This set was made by 7 and 13 year olds. Let all of the paint dry until it’s no longer tacky.

Use craft glue to adhere a strong magnet on the back side. I recommend getting commerical grade magnets. You don’t want them sliding down the refrigerator door every time it’s opened and shut. Plus, you’ll want to display the kid’s artwork with them too!

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