These DIY ladybug magnets are so fun to make, and even more fun to show off! They’re the perfect mix of cute, easy, and cheerful, and they add just the right touch of whimsy to your fridge or magnetic board. Plus, they’re a great way to brighten up a rainy afternoon or sneak in some crafty fun with the kids!
These little glass gem ladybugs may be simple to create, but the end result is full of charm. Whether you use them as gifts, party favours, or just keep a few to decorate your own space, they’re sure to bring a smile. It’s a lighthearted, satisfying craft that’s fun for all ages!
This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a small commission which helps us run this website.
DIY Ladybug Magnets
Materials:
Equipment:
- Paintbrushes (1 fine tip, 1 medium tip)
Watch the step-by-step video tutorial:
Instructions:
Step 1: Find what you need
- Gather your supplies and materials.
Step 2: Clean the bead
- Begin by cleaning your flat glass bead to remove fingerprints and oil (especially on the flat part, where you’ll be painting).
Step 3: Paint the back of the glass bead
- Paint 1/4 to 1/3 of the flat part of the glass bead with black paint.
- Then make a thin vertical line down the center, dividing the wings.
- Add tiny black dots to the wings and allow to dry completely.
- Cover the whole flat bottom with red paint, on top of the black details. Allow to dry and add a second coat if needed.
Step 4: Attach the magnet and eyes
- Once the red paint is totally dry, attach a magnet using super glue or tacky glue.
- Then turn the glass bead over and attach 4mm googly eyes to the curved side of the stone, in the black section. The googly eyes we used are self-adhesive, but you can also use the super glue or tacky glue to attach them. We recommend using a toothpick to apply the glue, since the eyes are so small.
- Your DIY ladybug magnet is complete!
- Have fun making a whole swarm of these ladybug magnets, covering your fridge or giving them away as thoughtful gifts.
Helpful Tips:
- For small details, like the black line and spots, a toothpick or dotting tool will give you more control than a brush.
- If the red paint isn’t fully dry, it may smudge the black details underneath. Give each layer a long drying time for neat and crisp results.
What kind of paint works best on glass ladybug magnets?
For painting these magnetic ladybirds, your best bet is multi-surface or enamel acrylic paint. These types of paint stick to glass more effectively, provide better coverage with fewer coats. They’re also much more durable than regular craft paint.
Where can I find flat glass gems to make these ladybug fridge magnets?
These glass beads are different than the ones for jewelry that have holes in them. Look for the kind with a flat back and rounded top. They’re often sold as vase filler or table scatter.
You can buy this type of glass bead at dollar stores, craft stores, or online.
Are these mini ladybug magnets strong enough to hold papers?
Whether these glass ladybug magnets will hold papers or not depends on the magnets you use. We recommend small neodymium magnets (also called rare earth magnets), but strong ceramic disc magnets should work as well.
Less strong magnets (like the ones sold in a strip) probably won’t hold up the glass bead ladybugs properly, let alone allow you to hold up papers or photos reliably.
These ladybug magnets are cute, colourful, and so fun to make! Whether you’re crafting with kids or just looking for a happy little spring project, this DIY idea is simple, satisfying, and totally charming. Stick them on your fridge or give them away; either way, they’re guaranteed to spread smiles!
Here’s even more ladybug craft ideas:
Now available
Low-Mess Crafts for Kids Book
72 cute and fun crafts that kids and parents alike can enjoy. All with as little mess as possible!
Where to buy:
You can purchase Low-Mess Crafts for Kids from Amazon, or wherever books are sold:
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million | Indiebound | Amazon Canada
Leave a Reply