Supplies:
Thin cardboard
Felt
Keychain
Pencil
Scrap paper
Scissors
Hole punch
Tacky craft glue
Needle-nose pliers
Markers (optional)
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Here's How:
1.| First, sketch ideas onto scrap paper with a pencil.
2.| When pleased with a drawing, copy the outline onto thin cardboard (the type on the back of spiral notebooks works well).
3.| Next, use scissors to cut the shape out and then use the hole punch to make a hole near the top of the shape.
4.| If desired, use markers to color the edges of the cardboard to match the felt that will be used in the next step.
5.| Now, cover one side of the cardboard shape with glue, all the way to the edges, and apply the desired color of felt.
6.| Press it down firmly and wait a few moments for the glue to start setting.
7.| Use scissors to trim away the excess felt.
8.| Repeat the last 3 steps to cover the other side of the shape with felt, too.
9.| Now, refer to the sketch and from felt cut out the features needed: eyes, noses, mouths, etc.
10.| Generously apply glue to each piece and press them firmly onto the body.
11.| Allow the Buddy to dry completely. Use a sharp pencil to pierce through the felt where the hole in the cardboard is (an adult’s job). Then attach the keychain to the hole. (If the keychain has a jump-ring an adult will need to use needle-nose pliers to attach it.)
12.| The Backpack Buddy is now ready to hitch a ride to school!
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More Ideas:
• A cheap source for cute kid’s key chains is to repurpose the hooks attached to party favors or vending machine toys.
• If a key chain or other clasp isn’t available simply use a safety pin, twist tie or even ribbon to attach the Buddy to a backpack.
• Instead of felt, sheets of craft foam also work great for this project.
• Googly eyes, buttons and sequins make fun additions to the designs.
• Make animals, aliens or people too, or try recreating famous cartoon characters.
• Create initials, flowers or favorite foods—with or without faces.
• Punch holes and use paper brads to add moveable arms and legs to the figure.
• Look for craft felt or foam with fun prints, like polka-dots, leopard spots or zebra stripes.
• Older kids can make puffy versions by omitting the cardboard, stitching two felt shapes together and stuffing them.
• Try this idea to make pins, magnets and holiday ornaments, too!
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Pamela Maxwell is an artist, author and mother of two busy little boys. Her craft and scrapbooking projects have appeared in numerous books and magazines. Her most recent book is “Memories in Miniature.” Photo by Pamela Maxwell.
