How to Make DIY Butterfly Magnets with Your Kids
By Melissa & Doug: #1 Preschool Brand For Wooden Toys | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: How-to Guides
Turn a simple craft kit into a fun afternoon project. Learn step-by-step how to paint and decorate wooden butterfly magnets with your kids, plus tips to avoid common mistakes.
Quick Answer
The easiest way to make DIY butterfly magnets with your kids is to use a complete wooden craft kit like the Created by Me! Wooden Butterfly Magnets Craft Kit, which includes everything you need for a mess-free, fun project.
Why a Craft Kit Makes It Easier
A dedicated kids craft kit saves you the hassle of gathering supplies. The Created by Me! Wooden Butterfly Magnets Craft Kit comes with four wooden butterfly shapes, paints, a brush, gem stickers, and glitter glue—so you can start right away without running to the store.
Using a kit also ensures the pieces are sized for little hands and the paint is washable, which means less stress for you and more fun for them.
What to Expect: Ages and Skill Level
This craft is suitable for kids ages four and up. Younger children may need help with the smaller details, like applying gem stickers, while older kids can work independently.
The kit is designed for kids to do on their own or with friends, making it a great activity for playdates or a rainy afternoon.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Butterfly Magnets
- Set Up Your Workspace: Cover your table with newspaper or a plastic tablecloth. Lay out all the kit pieces: four wooden butterflies, paint pots, brush, gem stickers, and glitter glue. Make sure each child has enough space to work without bumping into each other. Use a washable table cover to make cleanup quick.
- Paint the Butterflies: Let your child choose a butterfly and paint it with the included paints. Encourage them to use different colors for the wings and body. Remind them to rinse the brush between colors to avoid muddying the paint. If paint gets on clothes, wash it promptly while still wet.
- Let the Paint Dry Completely: Place the painted butterflies on a drying rack or a safe spot. Wait until the paint is fully dry to the touch before adding decorations. This usually takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on thickness. Check by touching a small area. Rushing this step can cause smudges when you add stickers.
- Decorate with Stickers and Glitter Glue: Once dry, let your child place the gem stickers on the wings and add glitter glue for extra sparkle. Show them how to press firmly so the stickers stay put. For the glitter glue, a little goes a long way—squeeze gently. If the glitter glue is too thick, spread it with the brush or a toothpick.
- Attach the Magnets and Display: After the glitter glue is dry, turn the butterfly over and attach the magnet to the back. If the kit uses adhesive magnets, peel and press firmly. Then, let your child place their creations on the fridge or a magnetic board. Test the magnet strength by lifting the butterfly gently; if it falls, press harder or use a stronger magnet.
Product Spotlight
- Created by Me! Wooden Butterfly Magnets Craft Kit: The Created by Me! Wooden Butterfly Magnets Craft Kit includes four three-dimensional butterfly-shaped magnets, four pots of paint, a paintbrush, 12 gem stickers, and glitter glue. Everything is included, so you don't need to buy extra supplies, and the variety of decorations lets each butterfly be unique.
Created by Me! Wooden Butterfly Magnets Craft Kit
