DIY Back to School Photo Prop

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The first day of school is as exciting for parents as it is for kids, and if you're a mom who takes pictures each year of your child's first day of school, you're probably looking for a way to make it extra special. This easy back to school photo prop can be done in only 5 steps, and is a perfect summer craft to do with your kids.

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Image Credit: Flavia Andrews

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Things You'll Need

  • Laser-cut wooden frame (recommended 11-by-14 inches)

  • Multicolor sidewalk chalk with flat sides

  • Spray adhesive

  • Mod Podge

  • 3-inch-wide foam brush

  • Small wooden letters (recommended 2 inches tall)

  • Large wooden number 1 (recommended 5 inches tall)

  • Hot glue gun

  • Hot glue sticks

  • 10-by-4-inch wooden plank

  • Black chalkboard paint

  • Acrylic paints

  • Chalk

  • Apple embellishment (optional)

  • Big wooden letter (recommended 5 inches tall) (optional)

Tip

The small wooden letters and large wooden number will spell out "1ST DAY OF"

Step 1: Prepare the Layout of the Chalk

Before gluing the sidewalk chalk to the frame, decide how the chalk will be arranged. On a flat working surface, lay the laser-cut frame down and arrange the chalk pieces in the design of your choice.

Video of the Day

Image Credit: Flavia Andrews

Step 2: Glue the Chalk on the Frame

Once you have your design, take 3 to 4 pieces of chalk and spray adhesive directly onto the chalk and frame. Push the chalk into the frame and hold down until secure. Repeat until all of the chalk is adhered to the frame.

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Tip

Work on small sections. Glue 3 to 4 pieces of chalk at a time.

Image Credit: Flavia Andrews

Repeat until all of the chalk pieces are glued to the frame. Allow 1 to 2 hours to dry.

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Warning

Use spray adhesive in a well ventilated area.

Step 3: Prepare the Embellishments

Apply 2 to 3 coats of black chalkboard paint to the small wood plank to create a mini chalkboard. Paint the wooden letters and number the color of your choice. Allow to dry completely. Using a hot glue gun, attach the apple embellishment to the top corner of the mini-chalkboard. Allow the glue to dry.

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Image Credit: Flavia Andrews

Step 4: Seal The Chalk

Once the chalk is dry and has completely adhered to the frame, use a 3-inch-wide foam brush to apply a coat of Mod Podge over the entire surface and in between each chalk stick. The Mod Podge will seal the chalk and create a glossy, protective layer that prevents chalk dust from falling off while reinforcing the previously applied adhesive.

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Image Credit: Flavia Andrews

Tip

If you don't have Mod Podge, use urethane or a clear spray paint in gloss or semi-gloss finish.

Step 5: Attach Letters and Accessories to Frame

Once the Mod Podge is dry and the chalk is soft to the touch, attach the letters and embellishments directly over the chalk sticks.

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Image Credit: Flavia Andrews

Tip

  • Decide on a layout and design and lay the letters and embellishments onto the frame before gluing.
  • Lift and glue down one piece at a time.

Alternative Design

Image Credit: Flavia Andrews

As an alternative finish, skip the chalkboard and spell the grade in wooden letters or numbers instead.

Warning

  • Always keep hazardous materials and dangerous tools away from small children's reach.
  • Once finished, frame will be heavy (depending on the size and amount of chalk sticks) and fragile. Handle with care.

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