Friday, March 4, 2011

Scrabble tiles: cheap and easy

Own this tile, go to whoopdwhoop.com


So, I know scrabble tiles have been popular over the last couple of years.  People sell them, make them, etc.  I like to use photos, recycled greeting cards, scrapbook paper, magazines, and comics.  This technique is less expensive, less toxic, and super easy!

Step One: Choose your tile.  Measure to the center of the top, and make a mark with a pencil.




 Step Two: Using a very small drill bit, and a dremel tool, drill a hole in the top of the tile on the pencil mark.  Do not go too deep.

Step Three:  Apply Aleene's Tacky Glue all over the back of the tile with a paintbrush.

 Step Four: Using the paper you have selected, press it on the glue and hold it up to the light to make sure it is properly placed
 Step Five: After allowing it to dry, trim the excess off of the edges with a craft knife.
 Step Six: Flip it over, and it should look like this:
 Step Seven: Starting at the top, apply a thick layer of Glossy Accents.


 Allow it to run down the tile, so it makes an even coat.
 If necessary, use something to spread it with.  I used the end of one of my cheap paintbrushes I use for glue.
 Step Seven: Allow the Glossy Accents to dry.  I recommend overnight.

Step Eight: Make an attachment.  You can buy bails to glue to the back, but I like to make my own hardware using silver wire.  This way the tile is reversible.  You can also use this great product called "Fun Wire."  It is a plastic coated wire that is available at Wal-mart, Michael's or AC Moore.
 Cut a three inch length of silver wire.
 Fold it over about 2/3 of the way down.
 Wrap the wire around about eight times so you have a loop at the top and a coil.


 Trim the base so that only about 1/8-1/4 of untwisted wire hangs down.  Then apply a good glue to the wire and stick it in the hole.  I used Gorilla Glue, but you have to be VERY careful since Gorilla Glue expands and gets funky if you use too much.  Other people recommend E-6000, but I also have used super glue.  I like gel-like super glues best.


 Your finished tile should look like this:

Add a ribbon or chain and VOILA!  A personalized accessory!

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