Make Your Own Paperweights

A paperweight is any object that is heavy enough to hold paper down. There is no limit to what item you can use to create a paperweight. Paperweights are most commonly made from glass, although they can be made from acrylic, metal or even rock. There are associations, such as Paperweight Collectors, Inc. and The Paperweight Connection, that are full of members collecting and trading paperweights. The oldest paperweights were made in 1845 in French factories. Weights are now made all over the world.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Rock
• Soapy water
• Clear acrylic glue
• Photo
• Charms
• Sequins
• Paintbrush
• Felt
• Scissors

1. Go outside and find a rock with dimensions approximately 8 x 6 x 6 inches high.

2. Wash the rock in warm soapy water until it is completely clean. Allow the rock to dry overnight.

3. Choose a pretty picture of someone you love or a nice landscape. You can also use your child's artwork.

4. Use a paintbrush and place glue on the back of the photo. Stick it on the rock. Cover it completely with a clear acrylic glue. Make sure the entire photo is covered and the edges are flat.

5. Add other items to your rock, like charms or sequins. Apply glue to the back, stick them to the rock and cover them with a layer of acrylic glue.

6. Cut out a piece of felt the size of the bottom of the rock. Glue it in place. The felt will keep the rock from scratching table surfaces and other furniture.

Tips & Warnings

• When applying the glue to the objects on your rock, make sure the glue is evenly distributed so there isn't any lumps. The goal is to keep the objects stuck to the rock, and to add a little protective layer and decorative shine.

• Make sure the felt on the bottom of the rock covers all the edges so there isn't any chance of scratching a table surface.