MommyMaestra Summer of Fun: Shrink Crafts

Did you ever play with Shrinky Dinks when you were a kid? I didn't, but I always wanted some because all the other kids had them. So imagine my response when while shopping at our local Michaels, my son stumbled upon this set.

I thought it was too pricey at first ($7.99), but if you use a 40% off coupon plus your 15% teacher's discount this is actually quite a little deal! Still, if you prefer to just try these out, they do have smaller sets of just one sheet with three super cute designs for only $1.

There were enough designs in the big set to keep both of my kids busy and happy. They were absolutely fascinated by the actual shrinking process, and we were all impressed with the end result! I like the fact that kids of virtually any age can enjoy this activity.

Tips for Success:

• Do NOT use a microwave or gas oven to shrink the designs. I actually used a toaster oven and it worked perfectly. 
• A single sheet of aluminum foil protects your cookie sheets.
• If some of your pieces don't lay perfectly flat, use the blunt end of a knife or some other straight edge to push the edges down as soon as you pull it out of the oven before they cool and harden.
• Use the final results in a variety of ways, including charm bracelets, glass markers, necklace pendants, key chains, bookmark charms, lamp chain pull, and more...

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I spent my own money on this set, purchasing it for my own children. All thoughts and opinions are my own.