Easy Clothespin Magnets

This week at school we've been on this crazy schedule, some classes are an hour, some classes are a half hour so to make things less hectic my students have been working on a mapping activity that allows me to sit at my desk while they come to me to get their work checked (it's awesome). It also allows me to seriously multitask- like I'm talking grade papers, check student work, and still keep an eye on everyone. As I was sitting multitasking, I noticed that I could use a few more magnets in my classroom and from that point on the conversation in my head went like this:

"I need more magnets to hang up no name papers. But they need to be cute magnets. Yeah, more cute magnets. But I don't want to buy any. What can I make them out of?  I need clips. I need magnets. Cute, clip magnets. Clips...clips...clips....magnet...magnets...magnets. Clips...Clothespins? Scrapbook paper? Modge Podge? Done!"

And with about 5 minutes of time, I solved my not enough magnets problem with a super easy craft.

I quickly gathered my supplies:

• Clothespins
• Adhesive magnet tape
• Pretty scrapbook paper
• Double sided tape (I used my Scotch ATG gun)
• Modge Podge
• Paper cutter

I measured my clothespin and used my paper cutter to cut a piece of paper to size. And then used the tape gun to run a line of tape down the back of the paper.

Then I slapped a thin coat of Modge Podge on them to give 'em a little shine and adhere the paper to the clothespin a little better. Add a strip of magnetic tape to the back and you're finished!

Ta-da! Here they are in action, holding up my many important documents in my classroom. Even my students complimented my craftiness today. I'm surprised they even noticed! And best of all, it was totally free because I already had all the items on hand.

I love being able to knock out small projects...so often I take on something that takes a few days or is labor intensive. Quick and easy projects make me feel relaxed and happy.

So have you been doing any easy crafting lately? Or are you in the middle of a big project? Share a little in the comments so I can check it out!

P.S. I'm linking up with Home Stories A to Z for her Tutorials and Tips Link Party.