While services offering professional photo fridge magnets Australia-wide produce beautiful results, there is a special satisfaction in creating personalized keepsakes yourself. Making your own Fridgemagnets at home allows for total creative control, unique shapes, and a wonderful way to use up those extra snaps or craft supplies.
Whether you're looking for a fun craft project or a truly unique gift, here is a step-by-step guide on how to make your own stunning photo fridge magnets using simple materials.
Method 1: The Fast & Flat Magnet Sheet Method
This is the quickest way to create traditional, flexible photo fridge magnets.
What You'll Need:
- Photos: Printed on glossy or matte photo paper (or quality printer paper).
- Adhesive Magnetic Sheets: These come in rolls or pre-cut sheets, often with a peel-and-stick adhesive backing.
- Scissors or Craft Knife: Sharp tools for precise cutting.
The Steps:
- Print and Prep Your Photos: Print your chosen photos to the desired size. You can easily fit multiple photos onto one sheet of paper. Let the ink dry completely!
- Peel and Stick: Peel the protective backing off your adhesive magnetic sheet. Carefully align the photo printout on top of the sticky side, starting from one edge and smoothing it out to avoid air bubbles.
- Laminate (Optional but Recommended): For extra durability, especially if the magnets will be handled often, cover the printed side with a layer of clear contact paper or a self-adhesive laminating sheet.
- Cut to Shape: Using sharp scissors or a craft knife, carefully cut out each individual photo magnet. You can stick to simple squares and rectangles, or try fun shapes like circles or hearts!
Method 2: The Rigid & Resin-Look Magnet Method
This technique uses ceramic or glass tiles to create durable, dimensional, glossy magnets that look professional.
What You'll Need:
- Photos: Small, printed to fit your chosen tile size (e.g., 1-inch squares). Laser printer photos work best as inkjet prints can bleed when glue is applied.
- Glass Cabochons or Small Ceramic Tiles: Flat-backed glass domes or small, smooth ceramic or travertine tiles (found at hardware/craft stores).
- Strong Craft Glue: Clear-drying glue like Mod Podge Dimensional Magic or E6000.
- Small Disc Magnets: Strong, flat magnets (neodymium magnets are highly effective).
The Steps:
- Prep and Size: Cut your photos slightly smaller than the tile or cabochon you are using.
- Glue the Photo to the Base (Tiles): If using tiles, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge or clear glue to the tile surface and carefully place the photo on top. Seal the top of the photo with another thin layer of glue and let it dry completely.
- Glue the Photo to the Dome (Cabochons): If using glass domes, put a drop of glue on the printed side of the photo, then gently press the flat side of the glass dome onto the photo. The glue will spread to cover the entire area. Let this dry face-up until completely cured.
- Attach the Magnet: Once the photo base is fully dry, flip it over. Use a strong-bonding adhesive (like E6000) to glue a small disc magnet securely to the center of the back.
- Cure Time: Allow the final magnet-to-base bond to cure for at least 24 hours before sticking your new, stunning photo fridge magnet to a magnetic surface.
DIY Pro Tips for Stunning Results
- High-Resolution Matters: Start with high-quality, clear photos. A blurry photo will become an even blurrier magnet.
- Seal Everything: Always seal the photo surface with either clear tape, spray sealant, or clear-drying glue. This protects the photo from the inevitable spills and grime of the kitchen.
- Test Your Magnets: Make sure the magnetic material or disc you use is strong enough to hold the weight of the base material (especially with tiles or glass).
Enjoy turning your favorite digital snapshots into personalized, tangible Fridgemagnets!