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Description
This kids craft has so many variations that it would be
impossible to list them all. It is one of my all-time favorite arts and crafts
projects for groups of children because it is so frugal, very versatile and
makes great gifts! General directions follow with specific instructions for
several theme variations at the end of the page. Check your local thrift store
for inexpensive puzzles. I just purchased a 2000 piece puzzle for 10 cents!!
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Materials
Cardboard picture frame
Jigsaw puzzle pieces
Spray paint
White glue
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Age
Group
5 and up
How to Make Jigsaw Puzzle Frames
Place all pieces printed side up on a flat
surface in an area with very good ventilation. The back (cardboard side) is very
absorbent and will require more coats of paint. Lightly spray an even coat of
paint from the top straight down first. This will keep the pieces from flying
off when you angle the can to spray the sides on the second coat.
Let dry 30 minutes and apply a second coat. This should be
sufficient coverage. I paint hundreds of pieces at a time and once dry, store
them in zipper bags.
Use a die cut frame or cut your own
cardboard in the shape you want. Cut the center opening slightly smaller than
the photograph you want to display. Spread a layer of glue over the frame and
starting in once corner, place down one layer of puzzle pieces. Don't worry
about them covering each tiny space on the cardboard. By the time you get back
to the starting corner, the first layer will be dry and you can put a dab of
glue on the back of each piece and place the second layer so the pieces
alternate over the bottom layer, more completely covering the base.
Allow the glue to dry. Turn the frame over and apply a hanger. Two strips of
heavy duty magnets on top and bottom will hold your frame to the refrigerator.
Loop a 7-inch length of ribbon and glue the ends on the back, 1/2 inch from the
top for a hanging ornament. To make a standing frame, cut a piece of cardboard
slightly longer than the frame. (If in doubt about length, cut longer and trim
excess) The length and width will depend on the size of frame you use. Mark one
inch from the end and score. If you are using corrugated cardboard, score
through the top paper layer. Bend at the score and glue or tape the strip to the
back.
Specific Frame Instructions
Christmas Holly
Berry frame: Paint 90% of the pieces green and the remainder red. The first
layer is all green. The second layer, glue three red pieces in the corner. I
sometimes add one bead in the center of the red pieces.
Christmas Holly Berry Wreaths: A small circle frame makes an excellent "wreath"
ornament or refrigerator decoration.For a group project, cut a large wreath
shape from the top of a pizza box and cover the base with green pieces. The
second layer can have several groups of three red pieces or try using more
pieces in a circular shape for ornaments. Once dry, spray with a sealer and
sprinkle glitter sparingly over the top. The sealer will keep most of it from
falling off. (I usually avoid glitter when I work with groups, but this wreath
is really enhanced by its use.)
Reindeer Frame: All pieces are
brown. Once dry, add chenille stem antlers to the top.
Moo Cow
Frame: Spray 80% of the pieces white and the remainder black. The first layer is
all white. On the second layer, intersperse black pieces in a pleasing
pattern.
Autumn Frame: Paint pieces several Fall colors. I use
red, orange, yellow, light green, tan and brown. Mix and match pieces on the
frame.
School Spirit Frame: Use your favorite school's colors.
Be My Valentine: What grandparent wouldn't want a picture of their
precious grandchildren framed in red and pink?
Patriotic Frame:
Emulate your country's flag. For the first one, you might find it easier to
place pieces in the center opening to "see" the whole flag easier.
