There is something incredibly special about handmade keepsakes. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, daycare provider, teacher, or someone who loves getting creative, making little plaster magnets is a wonderful way to turn a simple craft project into something people can treasure for years.
As someone who loves finding fun, affordable activities to do with kids, I am always looking for crafts that are easy to make, don’t require a fortune in supplies, and leave us with something we can actually use afterward. Plaster magnets check all those boxes!
These little creations are adorable, surprisingly sturdy when made properly, easy to paint, and perfect for decorating the fridge. Parents absolutely love receiving handmade gifts from their children, especially when those gifts capture a little piece of their childhood.
Imagine a colourful handprint magnet, a tiny animal decorated by a preschooler, a personalized Christmas decoration, or a cute little flower made just for Mom. These are the kinds of gifts that can bring a smile to someone’s face long after the craft supplies have been put away.
The best part? You don’t need to be an artist to make them!
With plaster powder, water, silicone molds, and a few inexpensive decorating supplies, you can create all kinds of beautiful little keepsakes. You can even turn this hobby into a small handmade business selling personalized gifts, seasonal decorations, and custom magnets.
If you enjoy making things with your children, be sure to check out more of my creative projects on Funky Frugal Mommy. I love sharing affordable ways to have fun, make memories, and get creative with the supplies we already have.
Let’s get started!
Why Make Plaster Magnets?
Plaster magnets are one of those crafts that offer so many possibilities. Once you get started, you will probably find yourself looking for more molds and coming up with new designs for every season!
Here are some of the reasons I love this project.
1. They Make Wonderful Keepsakes for Parents
If you have children, you already know how quickly they grow. One minute they are tiny little toddlers, and before you know it, they are heading off to school and becoming independent.
Handmade keepsakes are a sweet way to remember those early years.
Parents love receiving little gifts their children have helped make, and a magnet is especially useful because it can be displayed on the refrigerator, a magnetic board, or another suitable magnetic surface.
Unlike some crafts that end up tucked away in a drawer, these little creations can become part of everyday life.
For daycare providers and preschool teachers, they also make lovely gifts for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, birthdays, and end-of-year celebrations.
You can even write the child’s name and the date on the back to make each piece extra special.
2. They Are Easy to Paint and Decorate
One of my favourite things about plaster crafts is how versatile they are.
Once the plaster has completely dried, you can paint the pieces in almost any colour you like. You can keep things simple with a single coat of paint or get creative with patterns, glitter, and tiny details.
Try decorating your magnets with:
- Acrylic paints.
- Washable paints for supervised children’s activities.
- Paint pens and fine brushes.
- Coloured markers suitable for the surface.
- Glitter paint.
- Decorative dots and patterns.
- Seasonal colours and designs.
- Names, initials, and dates.
- Flowers, hearts, stars, and little animals.
You can even make a whole collection of matching magnets in different colours.
For younger children, I recommend keeping the designs simple and letting them enjoy the process rather than worrying about making everything look perfect. Their little scribbles, colourful patterns, and imperfect brushstrokes are often what make these keepsakes so special.
3. They Are Lightweight and Sturdy
Plaster is a fantastic material for making small decorative pieces because it is relatively lightweight and can become quite hard when properly cured.
These magnets are easy to handle, simple to decorate, and suitable for many different craft projects.
Once fully dry, plaster becomes hard and holds its shape well when handled appropriately. That makes it a great option for small decorations and keepsakes.
However, plaster can still chip or break if dropped onto a hard surface, particularly around thin edges or delicate details. It is not indestructible, so avoid describing it as completely unbreakable.
For families with children who tend to drop or handle things roughly, I recommend choosing chunky molds without thin protruding parts.
Important: These are decorative items, not toys for mouthing or chewing. Keep small magnets and finished magnetic crafts out of reach of young children because swallowed magnets can cause serious injuries.
4. There Are So Many Molds to Choose From
This is where the fun really begins!
You can find molds in countless shapes and sizes, making it easy to create something for practically any occasion.
Some popular options include:
- Hearts.
- Flowers.
- Butterflies.
- Dinosaurs.
- Farm animals.
- Cats and dogs.
- Stars and moons.
- Seashells.
- Snowflakes.
- Christmas trees.
- Pumpkins.
- Easter eggs.
- Letters and numbers.
- Cute cartoon-inspired shapes.
- Handprints and footprints, where suitable molds are available.
You can also use molds to make other small plaster decorations that don’t need to be magnets.
For example, you could create little ornaments, seasonal decorations, name plaques, or miniature decorative pieces.
If you enjoy experimenting with molds and making your own creations, you might also enjoy my DIY Cement Dinosaur Bones project. It is another fun example of how molds can turn simple materials into unique creations.
Although cement and plaster are different materials with different properties, both can be used to explore creative molding projects.
5. They Are Great for Adults, Too!
You don’t have to be a parent or daycare provider to enjoy making plaster magnets.
Adults can use this craft to create personalized gifts, home decorations, seasonal collections, or handmade products to sell.
If you enjoy painting and working with your hands, this can be a relaxing way to spend an afternoon.
You could create a collection of:
- Personalized name magnets.
- Cute pet-themed magnets.
- Cottage-inspired floral designs.
- Holiday gift sets.
- Wedding and baby shower favors.
- Teacher appreciation gifts.
- Custom keepsakes for families.
- Seasonal fridge decorations.
You could even offer custom colours or personalized designs to make your products stand out.
The supplies are relatively simple, and you can experiment with different styles until you discover what people enjoy buying.
Just remember to account for your materials, packaging, time, and selling fees when deciding how much to charge.
Supplies You Need to Make Plaster Magnets
The great thing about this project is that you don’t need an enormous collection of expensive supplies to get started.
Here is what you will need.
Materials
- Plaster of Paris: Choose a plaster product suitable for casting and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Water: For mixing the plaster.
- Silicone molds: Choose molds designed for casting plaster or other compatible craft materials.
- Mixing container: An old disposable container or a dedicated craft container works well.
- Mixing stick or spoon: Something you can use to stir the plaster.
- Measuring cup: For measuring the water and plaster according to the package directions.
- Small paintbrushes: Helpful for painting tiny details.
- Acrylic craft paint: Available in plenty of colours.
- Protective table covering: Newspaper, a plastic tablecloth, or a craft mat.
- Strong craft adhesive: Choose one suitable for attaching magnets to plaster.
- Small magnets: Select magnets appropriate for the finished piece and its intended use.
- Clear protective sealer: Optional, if compatible with your paint and plaster.
- Disposable gloves and a dust mask: Use appropriate protection when handling plaster powder, following the product’s safety instructions.
You may also want glitter paint, paint pens, stencils, or other decorations to make your finished magnets unique.
Choosing Your Molds
Silicone molds are especially convenient because they are flexible and make removing finished pieces easier.
You can find molds in shapes suitable for different holidays, animals, flowers, and other decorative designs.
When selecting molds, look for shapes that are not too thin or fragile. Deep, chunky designs are often easier to work with than molds with lots of delicate little points.
If you are making magnets for a daycare group, choose several simple shapes so each child can pick a favourite.
A collection of flowers, hearts, stars, and animals would be perfect for a mixed group of children.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Plaster Magnets
Now for the fun part!
Follow these steps to create your own little plaster masterpieces.
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Before you start mixing anything, prepare your work area.
Cover the table with newspaper, a disposable tablecloth, or a craft mat. Gather your molds, mixing container, water, plaster, and other supplies so everything is within reach.
If children are participating, make sure they have a suitable workspace where they can decorate safely without getting plaster powder into their food or drinks.
A safety note about plaster: Dry plaster powder can irritate the eyes and respiratory system. Avoid creating dust, use appropriate protective equipment, and follow the product label. Never allow children to handle or inhale plaster powder.
It is best for an adult to handle the measuring and mixing while children help with the decorating later.
Step 2: Measure the Plaster and Water
Read the directions on your plaster packaging before you begin.
Different products may require different mixing ratios, so it is important to use the manufacturer’s recommended proportions rather than guessing.
Measure the required amount of water into your mixing container.
Gradually add the plaster according to the instructions, allowing the powder to absorb the water as directed.
Avoid making the mixture too watery. Excess water can affect the finished piece’s strength and drying characteristics.
You want a smooth, pourable mixture that can fill your molds without being overly runny.
Step 3: Mix Until Smooth
Stir the plaster and water gently until the mixture is reasonably smooth and free of large lumps.
Try not to whip the mixture too vigorously because introducing excess air can create bubbles in your finished magnets.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions about mixing time and working time.
Plaster begins setting relatively quickly, so have your molds ready before you start mixing.
Important: Never pour leftover plaster down the sink. It can harden inside your plumbing and cause blockages. Allow small leftovers to harden in a disposable container and dispose of them according to local waste guidelines.
Step 4: Pour the Plaster Into Your Molds
Carefully pour the plaster mixture into your silicone molds.
Fill each cavity to the appropriate level, taking care not to overflow the edges.
For molds with small details, pour slowly so the plaster reaches all the little corners.
You can gently tap the mold against the table to help release some trapped air bubbles.
Do not shake it aggressively, as this can spill the mixture or create additional bubbles.
If you are making a large batch, work efficiently because plaster has a limited working time.
Step 5: Let the Plaster Set
Once the molds are filled, leave them undisturbed while the plaster sets.
The setting time will depend on the product, the size of your molds, and the conditions in your workspace.
Follow the instructions on your plaster packaging.
Avoid poking the pieces while they are setting, even if you are tempted to see whether they are ready!
This is a great opportunity to clean your work area and prepare your paints and brushes.
Remember that setting and drying are not the same thing. A piece can feel hard enough to remove from its mold while still containing moisture.
Step 6: Remove the Magnets From the Molds
Once the plaster has set sufficiently, carefully remove each piece from its mold.
With flexible silicone molds, you can usually peel the mold away gently from the edges.
Avoid pulling on thin parts of the plaster, such as flower petals or animal ears, because they can break.
If a piece seems stuck or feels soft, give it more time rather than forcing it out.
Place the released pieces on a flat surface where they can continue drying.
At this stage, they may look plain and chalky, but that is perfectly fine!
The decorating comes next.
Step 7: Allow the Pieces to Dry Completely
This step is important.
Even though the plaster may already feel hard, you need to allow the pieces to dry thoroughly before painting them.
Place them somewhere dry with good ventilation, following the product’s recommended drying time.
Larger or thicker pieces may take longer to dry than small, thin ones.
Avoid rushing the process with excessive heat, as this may damage the pieces.
Once completely dry, the plaster should feel firm and ready for the next stage.
If the pieces still feel damp or appear darker in some areas, allow them more time.
My tip: If you are making these for a special occasion, start a few days ahead rather than leaving everything until the night before.
That gives you plenty of time for drying, painting, and attaching the magnets.
Step 8: Paint and Decorate Your Creations
This is everyone’s favourite part!
Once the plaster is completely dry, you can start painting.
Lay out a selection of paint colours and brushes and let your imagination run wild.
You can paint each magnet one solid colour, create rainbow patterns, or add tiny details that bring the shapes to life.
For example:
Flowers: Paint the petals pink, purple, yellow, or red, then add a contrasting centre.
Animals: Create colourful cats, dogs, dinosaurs, or farm animals.
Hearts: Use pink and red for Valentine’s Day or choose colours that match the recipient’s kitchen.
Christmas designs: Paint snowflakes white and blue, Christmas trees green, and little stars gold.
Handmade gifts: Add a child’s name or the year to make the piece more personal.
For daycare projects, I recommend letting the children choose their own colours.
Some might create a beautifully coordinated flower, while others will cover their magnet in every colour available.
Both are wonderful!
The goal is to enjoy the creative process and make something that feels special.
If you need more inspiration for affordable projects to do with little ones, check out my rainy-day umbrella craft for daycare kids and my apple suncatcher craft.
Both are great examples of how simple supplies can become adorable handmade decorations.
Step 9: Add Extra Details and Personalization
Once the base paint has dried, you can add smaller details.
Use a fine paintbrush or suitable paint pen to draw eyes, smiles, dots, stripes, flowers, or other designs.
For keepsakes, consider adding:
- The child’s first name.
- The year the magnet was made.
- A special date.
- A tiny heart.
- A short message.
- The name of the daycare or classroom.
You could also create matching sets for family members.
Imagine making a little collection of animal magnets, with each one painted by a different child. Each piece would be unique, and parents would have something lovely to display.
If you want to use glitter or decorative paint, apply it according to the product instructions and allow everything to dry thoroughly.
Step 10: Apply a Protective Sealer (Optional)
If you want your magnets to have a finished look, you can apply a clear protective sealer that is compatible with both plaster and your chosen paint.
Some sealers create a glossy finish, while others leave the surface matte.
Follow the product directions and allow the coating to dry fully before handling the pieces.
A sealer can help protect the painted surface from ordinary handling, but it will not make plaster waterproof or completely resistant to chips and breakage.
For decorative magnets, a protective coating can be a nice finishing touch.
Step 11: Attach the Magnets
Now it is time to turn your little decorations into functional magnets!
Choose a magnet that is suitable for the size and weight of your plaster piece.
Use a strong adhesive that is compatible with the magnet and plaster. Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s directions, including any surface preparation and curing time.
Make sure the back of the plaster piece is sufficiently dry and clean before attaching the magnet.
If the back is uneven, choose an adhesive and magnet arrangement that provides adequate contact without creating an unstable attachment.
Allow the adhesive to cure completely before testing the finished magnet.
Check that the magnet is firmly attached and can support the finished piece on the intended surface.
Safety reminder: Small, powerful magnets can be extremely dangerous if swallowed. Keep loose magnets, unfinished magnetic pieces, and completed magnets securely away from young children. Do not give them to children who may put objects in their mouths, and regularly inspect finished products for loose or damaged magnets.
For daycare use, the finished magnets should be adult keepsakes rather than toys for children to play with.
Step 12: Display or Gift Your Finished Magnets
Congratulations! Your plaster magnets are ready.
Arrange them on the refrigerator, place them in little gift bags, or wrap them up as handmade presents.
If you are giving them to parents, you can even add a small card explaining that the magnet was made by their child.
These are particularly lovely as end-of-year daycare gifts because they offer families a tangible reminder of the time their children spent with you.
And if you are making them to sell, consider packaging them in small gift boxes or clear bags with a simple label.
A little presentation can make an inexpensive handmade item feel much more special.
Creative Plaster Magnet Ideas for Every Occasion
Once you have mastered the basic process, there are so many ways to customize these little keepsakes.
Here are some of my favourite ideas.
Mother’s Day Magnets
Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to make personalized keepsakes.
Create flowers, hearts, or other pretty shapes and let each child decorate one for their mom.
You could add a small handwritten card saying, “I love you, Mom!”
Even the simplest design can become a treasured gift when it comes from a child.
Father’s Day Magnets
For Father’s Day, try making stars, cars, tools, sports-inspired shapes, or animals.
Children can choose their dad’s favourite colours and create something unique.
You could even make a matching set for Dad and Grandpa.
Christmas Magnets
Christmas is one of the best times to experiment with seasonal molds.
Make little Christmas trees, snowflakes, stars, bells, or gingerbread-inspired shapes.
Paint them in traditional red and green or try a different colour scheme.
These are adorable as stocking stuffers, small gifts for relatives, or handmade additions to a holiday gift basket.
For more seasonal inspiration, take a look at my fall craft ideas for kids, which offer more ways to turn simple materials into festive decorations.
Birthday Party Favors
If you are planning a birthday party, plaster magnets can make memorable party favors.
Prepare a batch of castings ahead of time, then let the guests decorate their own pieces as part of the celebration.
You can choose molds that match the party theme, such as dinosaurs, butterflies, stars, or animals.
For younger children, have an adult handle all the plaster preparation and keep the wet mixture out of reach.
Allow plenty of time for drying and finishing before the magnets are used.
Pet-Themed Magnets
Animal lovers can have so much fun with this project.
Make little cat and dog magnets, paint them in different colours, and add tiny details to give each one its own personality.
You could even create a magnet inspired by a family pet.
These would make lovely gifts for animal lovers or cute additions to a handmade craft collection.
Personalized Family Keepsakes
If you have access to suitable molds, you can create personalized keepsakes featuring handprints, footprints, initials, or other meaningful designs.
These are especially sweet for parents and grandparents.
For baby and toddler keepsakes, an adult should handle the plaster and casting process, and any impression should be made using a method suitable for the child’s age.
Always prioritize the child’s comfort and safety.
Seasonal Decorations
You can make a different collection for every season.
Try flowers for spring, butterflies for summer, leaves for autumn, and snowflakes for winter.
You could even make matching sets so people can change their refrigerator decorations throughout the year.
The possibilities are practically endless!
Why Parents Love Handmade Daycare Keepsakes
As a daycare provider, I know that parents appreciate the little things their children make.
A handmade gift doesn’t have to be expensive or perfect to be meaningful.
In fact, sometimes the simplest crafts become the most treasured because they capture a particular stage of childhood.
Parents love seeing their children’s creativity, and having something they can display at home makes the experience even more special.
Plaster magnets are especially nice because they are practical as well as decorative.
They can hold up photographs, shopping lists, reminders, children’s drawings, and other little pieces of everyday life on a magnetic surface.
Every time a parent walks past the fridge, they can see that tiny creation and remember the child who made it.
And as the years go by, those little pieces can become wonderful reminders of how small their children once were.
I also love that every magnet turns out differently.
Even when children use identical molds, their finished creations can look completely different because of their colour choices, painting styles, and decorations.
There is no need to aim for perfection.
The charm is in the fact that each one is unique.
Tips for Making Plaster Magnets With Daycare Children
If you are a daycare provider or preschool teacher, this craft can be a fun project for a group.
However, it is best to divide the activity into stages.
Prepare the Castings Ahead of Time
For younger children, I recommend having an adult mix the plaster, fill the molds, and remove the castings.
This allows the children to focus on the painting and decorating, which is often the most enjoyable part.
It also reduces the risk of children inhaling plaster dust or accidentally getting the mixture into their mouths.
Offer a Few Different Shapes
You don’t need dozens of molds to make the activity exciting.
Choose three or four options and let each child select their favourite.
A flower, heart, star, and animal shape would be a great starting collection.
Keep the Decorating Simple
Set out a small selection of paints and brushes.
You can always introduce additional colours and details later.
For children who struggle with fine motor skills, larger brushes and simpler shapes may be easier to manage.
Let Every Child Create Something Different
One child might want to paint a bright yellow flower, while another prefers a purple dinosaur.
Let them explore their own ideas.
You can encourage creativity without insisting that everyone follow the same design.
Make It a Gift-Wrapping Activity
Once the magnets are completely dry and finished, invite older children to help decorate a card or gift bag.
This adds another personal touch and helps make the finished keepsake feel like a real present.
For more daycare inspiration, check out my article on the best indoor toys for daycare spaces.
You can also explore my easy clay slime recipe for another creative activity that gives children opportunities to experiment with colours and textures.
Can You Make and Sell Plaster Magnets?
Absolutely! Plaster magnets can be a fun starting point for a small handmade craft business.
If you already enjoy painting, crafting, and experimenting with molds, you may find that creating small decorative items is a rewarding hobby that can also bring in some extra income.
The key is to create products that people want to buy and present them attractively.
Start With a Small Collection
Rather than buying dozens of molds immediately, begin with a few versatile shapes.
Flowers, hearts, animals, and seasonal designs are good starting points because they can be adapted for different occasions.
Experiment with your paint colours and finishes until you find a style you enjoy.
Offer Personalized Designs
Personalization can help handmade items stand out.
Consider offering custom colour combinations, names, initials, or themed sets.
For example, you could sell a set of three floral magnets, a collection of Christmas decorations, or a small assortment of pet-themed designs.
Just be mindful of any intellectual property restrictions if you are considering branded or character-inspired designs for commercial use.
Calculate Your Costs
Before deciding on your prices, calculate how much each magnet costs to make.
Include:
- Plaster.
- Paint and sealer.
- Magnets and adhesive.
- Packaging.
- Craft supplies.
- Your time.
- Selling platform fees.
- Shipping materials, if applicable.
Even if the raw materials are inexpensive, your time and effort have value.
You want to make sure your pricing covers your expenses and leaves room for a profit.
Photograph Your Products
Good photographs can make a huge difference when selling handmade products.
Take clear pictures in natural light and show the magnets from different angles.
You could photograph them individually, display a matching set together, or show how they look on a refrigerator.
If you make personalized pieces, include examples of different colours and designs so customers can see what is possible.
Sell Locally or Online
You might sell your magnets through local craft markets, community events, or suitable online marketplaces.
You could also offer seasonal collections around Christmas, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, and other gift-giving occasions.
Before selling, make sure your products are properly cured, your magnets are securely attached, and your packaging accurately describes the item as a decorative keepsake.
Remember that a small magnet is not automatically safe just because it is attached to a larger plaster piece. Check applicable product safety requirements, particularly if you plan to market your creations to families with young children.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plaster Magnets
How long do plaster magnets take to dry?
The time depends on the plaster product, the size and thickness of the casting, and the drying conditions.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the pieces to dry thoroughly before painting.
Remember that plaster can feel hard before it has completely dried.
Can you use acrylic paint on plaster magnets?
Yes. Acrylic craft paint is a popular option for decorating fully dried plaster.
Apply thin coats and allow each coat to dry before adding more details.
You can finish the piece with a compatible clear sealer if desired.
Do plaster magnets break easily?
Plaster becomes hard when properly set and dried, but it can still chip or break if dropped or struck against a hard surface.
Choosing sturdy molds without delicate protruding parts can help reduce the risk of damage.
Do I need silicone molds?
Silicone molds are convenient because they are flexible and usually make removing the castings easier.
However, other molds may also work if they are specifically suitable for plaster casting.
Always check the mold manufacturer’s recommendations.
Can children make plaster magnets themselves?
Children can participate in age-appropriate parts of the craft, particularly painting and decorating.
An adult should handle plaster powder, mixing, pouring, and other steps that could expose children to dust or wet plaster.
Keep all loose magnets and completed magnetic pieces away from children who might put them in their mouths.
Can plaster magnets be used outside?
Plaster is not naturally waterproof, so ordinary plaster magnets are best suited to indoor use.
Moisture can damage the plaster and painted finish.
If you want to create outdoor decorations, choose a material specifically designed for the intended environment.
Can you make plaster magnets without painting them?
Yes! You can leave them plain for a simple, natural look.
You can also use coloured plaster products if they are suitable for your mold and intended finish.
However, painting is a great way to personalize each piece and make it more decorative.
What other things can you make with plaster molds?
You can make many different decorative castings, including ornaments, small figurines, seasonal decorations, and personalized keepsakes.
The possibilities depend on the mold design, the plaster product, and the intended use of the finished piece.
Final Thoughts: A Simple Craft That Can Become a Special Keepsake
I love crafts that are affordable, versatile, and meaningful.
Making plaster magnets is a wonderful way to spend time creating something with your children, prepare personalized gifts for family members, or experiment with a new handmade hobby.
With just a few supplies and some imagination, you can turn simple plaster castings into colourful little decorations that people will enjoy displaying.
They make lovely gifts for parents, grandparents, teachers, and friends. They are also a fun option for daycare activities, seasonal projects, party favors, and small handmade collections to sell.
The best part is that you don’t have to be particularly artistic to enjoy making them.
You can choose simple shapes, use your favourite colours, and let every creation develop its own personality.
Whether you make one little flower magnet for Mom or a whole collection of adorable animals for your craft table, each piece can be something special.
So gather your supplies, choose a few fun molds, and see what you can create!
And if you are looking for even more affordable crafts, family activities, and DIY inspiration, visit Funky Frugal Mommy for more ideas to help you make the most of your time at home.
Sometimes the simplest little projects become the keepsakes people treasure the most.