Making Checkers

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

21 Feb 2006 01:33 PM

As mentioned previously, one simple way to make checkers for a checkerboard blanket or checkerboard rug is to cut circles from felt or glue felt to plastic lids from coffee cans. Whichever style you choose, you will need twelve of each color.

Here are some other ideas: Fabric Checkers

You can use plastic lids for this project or simply cut circles from heavy cardboard (a sturdy box works great). Glue some batting to the circles and cover them with the fabric of your choice. You can use leftover fleece from the original black and red pattern, or fabric that coordinates with other treatments in the space. If you prefer, you can make small, round pillows instead and stuff them with fiberfill. Add trim if desired.

Beanbags

Beanbags are very simple to make and will work great with checkerboard blankets and rugs. You can use synthetic "beans" or tiny balls, which are available in craft stores, or you can use actual dry beans available in any grocery store. Popping corn will also work. All you have to do is cut 8" squares from the fabric of your choice, sew three sides closed, turn the bag right side out, fill with contents of your choice, and sew the bottom seam closed.

Dimensional Checkers

Budget decor enthusiasts joke about making home decor items from margarine tubs. This idea does just that. Clean margarine tubs with lids make great checkers when covered with fabric or when painted. There is spray paint now available that adheres to plastic.

Craft Wood

Purchase pre-cut circles or cut them out yourself from craft wood. Your children will love helping you paint the circles to make them into checkers.

Store Bought Items

Another fun idea is to use tiny novelty pillows or even small stuffed animals, such as beanbag animals. Brightly colored plastic plates or miniature Frisbee toys will also work, and they are available in many colors.

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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Lisa P (24013) 21 Feb 2006 08:52 PM

Cool ideas, Sherry!

I'm having visions of a checkerboard sleeping bag and a zip up pillowcase that holds all the mini-pillow checkers! This checkerboard stuff really provides some cool jumping off points for fun projects!

Sherry Holetzky (11404) 22 Feb 2006 07:34 PM

That is too cute, Lisa. You should market that idea! :o)

Kai Wilson (146) 10 Mar 2006 12:59 AM

This sounds like a GREAT project to do with my kids! Thank you.

Sherry Holetzky (11404) 10 Mar 2006 02:52 PM

Thanks! I hope you have fun with it. Let me know how it turns out, if you try it. :o) You may also want to look through some other fun ideas in the brand new Kid's Crafts Blog.