Last Updated on August 12, 2024 by Team Ideas24
These DIY dinosaur bookends are fun additions to your children’s bedroom!
You’ve probably heard someone say there are just too many books but very little time to read them all. Bibliophiles – or book lovers, if you may – can totally relate. My mom has a huge collection of books. With the aim of having my kids follow in her book-loving footsteps, she brought them books, too. A lot, actually, that I was forced to organize them or they’ll end up scattered everywhere.
The kids wanted a “non-adult looking” bookcase. In their language, that translates to “fun.”
Good thing I found this project for DIY dinosaur bookends. It really doesn’t require much time and effort. This is very simple and easy to do. Because it’s easily customizable, you can choose your own fun colors to work with.
These dinosaur bookends are too adorable for words! They would make the perfect addition to any child’s bedroom or playroom, and would also make a great gift for any dinosaur lover in your life. Each bookend features a different dinosaur design, so you can choose your favorite or mix and match it for a fun and unique look.
Adorable dinosaur bookend design ideas
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If you love dinosaurs, then you’ll love this easy DIY project for making your very own dinosaur bookends! This is a great project for kids to make, too.
Contents [show]
Making Dinosaur Bookends
Here’s what you’ll need:
Materials
- scrap wood
- plastic dinosaur toys
- hot glue
- spray paint
- sandpaper
Tools
- hobby knife
- glue gun
This project involves the use of hot glue, a glue gun, and a knife. Make sure to keep these away from children!
Steps
Making your own dinosaur bookends is a fun and easy project that you can do with your kids! Here’s to make one:
1. Prepare the scrap wood
Be sure to stir your can of walnut stain before using it to avoid any streaking in your final product. To apply the stain, first use a brush to apply it to the surface of your wood. Once the stain is applied, use a clean rag to spread it evenly over the surface of the wood. Allow the stain to dry for at least two hours before proceeding.
2. Cut the scrap wood
Cut the wood according to your desired bookend measurement. If you’re not sure what size you want, start with a 6-inch piece of wood and adjust as needed. Once you have your piece of wood, use a saw to cut it to size. You can use a hand saw or power saw, whichever you’re more comfortable with.
3. Combine the woods
Combine the wood by attaching the two blocks of wood to each other. Use hot glue to secure the wood pieces together. You can also use a brad nailer for extra security.
4. Apply paint
Make sure to sand the wood before you start painting! Try to look for a place where the area is well-ventilated. Also, be sure to wear a mask to avoid inhaling the fumes. Apply three coats of spray paint to the wood. You may choose your own color. Allow the paint to dry completely between each coat.
5. Attach the dinosaurs toys
To attach your dinosaur toys to the wood bookends, start by applying epoxy glue. Then, let the glue dry until it’s completely set. This process usually takes a few minutes.
You can cut your toy dinosaur in half and attach it to both bookends.
Place them on your bookshelf and enjoy your handiwork!
Whether you use them to hold up your favorite books or to display other items, these bookends are sure to add personality to your home.
Thanks to Pinterest Addict for this great project.
Here’s a quick video…
Alternative Dinosaur-Themed Projects for Book Lovers
If you’re enchanted by the idea of dinosaur bookends, there are countless ways to weave this prehistoric theme into your reading nook or library. From simple crafts to more elaborate DIY projects, here are some creative ideas to keep the dinosaur theme alive and roaring in your space.
Dinosaur-Themed Bookmark
Create a set of dinosaur-themed bookmarks to complement your dinosaur bookends. You can use cardstock to cut out dinosaur shapes or use small dinosaur stickers on regular bookmarks. Laminate them for durability and add a colorful ribbon or string at the top. These bookmarks are perfect for marking pages in your favorite novels and look fantastic peeking out from between the books held by your dinosaur bookends.
Dinosaur Reading Corner Decor
Enhance a children’s reading corner by adding dinosaur prints and decals on the walls. Include a small shelf with your dinosaur bookends and fill it with dinosaur-themed books and educational material. This setup not only makes reading time more exciting but also creates a thematic learning environment that complements the visual appeal of the dinosaur bookends.
Dinosaur Mobile for Storytime
Craft a hanging mobile featuring various dinosaurs to suspend over a reading chair or in the corner of a library. Use felt or cardboard to create dinosaur figures, paint them, and hang them using string from a circular frame. This can act as an excellent accompaniment to your dinosaur bookends, adding a dynamic and educational touch to storytime sessions.
Customized Dinosaur Journal
For those who enjoy journaling as much as reading, creating a customized dinosaur-themed journal could be a delightful project. Use dinosaur stamps or stencils to decorate the cover. This journal can rest beautifully next to your dinosaur bookends, ready to jot down thoughts, reading lists, or notes about your latest reads.
Interactive Dinosaur Reading Chart
For young readers, an interactive reading chart with a dinosaur theme can be both motivational and fun. Design the chart with paths or ladders that mimic Jurassic landscapes, and use small dinosaur stickers to mark progress. The chart can proudly be displayed near the dinosaur bookends, offering a visual representation of reading achievements.
Incorporating these dinosaur-themed projects into your reading areas not only enhances the aesthetic but also deepens the engagement with literature through creative, thematic expression. Pairing these projects with your dinosaur bookends can transform any reading space into a prehistoric adventure that’s both educational and visually stimulating.
Safety Tips for Crafting with Kids
Crafting with kids is a delightful way to spend quality time together, encouraging creativity and learning through hands-on activities. While projects like making dinosaur bookends can be a lot of fun, ensuring safety during these crafting sessions is paramount.
Here are comprehensive safety tips to consider when embarking on craft projects with children, especially when creating items like the beloved dinosaur bookends.
Choose Age-Appropriate Projects
Start by selecting craft projects that are appropriate for the child’s age. Projects like dinosaur bookends involve tools and materials that might be suitable for older children while younger ones could require simpler tasks and safer materials. Ensure the complexity of the project matches the child’s ability to handle tools and follow instructions safely.
Supervise Actively
Active supervision is crucial, especially when the crafts involve tools like scissors, glue guns, or paints. Never leave children unattended during crafting sessions. Being present helps prevent accidents and allows you to guide them through each step carefully, ensuring they enjoy making their dinosaur bookends without any mishaps.
Use Safe Materials
Always opt for non-toxic, child-friendly materials. Check labels for any health warnings and ensure that everything from the paints and glues used in making dinosaur bookends to any decorative items are safe for children’s use. Avoid materials that are sharp, break easily, or could be a choking hazard for younger children.
Maintain a Clean and Organized Workspace
Keep the crafting area well-organized and free of potential hazards. Ensure there is enough space for the children to work without anything unnecessary on the table that could cause accidents. A clean and organized workspace not only helps in preventing injuries but also makes the crafting experience more enjoyable and efficient when creating projects like dinosaur bookends.
Wear Protective Gear
Encourage children to wear appropriate protective gear. If the project, like dinosaur bookends, involves painting or gluing, have them wear aprons or old clothes. Safety goggles can protect eyes from splashes, and gloves can be useful if handling materials that might irritate the skin.
Teach Tool Safety
Before starting, demonstrate how to use each tool safely, whether it’s a pair of scissors, a paintbrush, or a glue gun for assembling dinosaur bookends. Teach them to handle and pass tools properly and to always put them back in their place after use. This not only prevents injuries but also instills good habits in young crafters.
Prepare for Emergencies
Always have a first aid kit handy in the crafting area. Teach basic first aid to older children, such as how to treat a minor cut or scrape. Knowing these simple procedures can be invaluable during any crafting session, particularly when the project involves multiple steps like making dinosaur bookends.
Encourage Clean-Up
Teach children the importance of cleaning up after crafting. Properly disposing of scrap materials and cleaning tools not only teaches responsibility but also ensures that no unsafe items are left out that could cause injuries later. It’s a crucial step after completing a project like dinosaur bookends.
By following these safety tips, you can ensure that crafting sessions, like making dinosaur bookends, are not only fun but also safe for everyone involved. This way, children can freely explore their creativity and learn new skills in a secure environment.
Conclusion
Crafting dinosaur bookends is a rewarding project that enhances any child’s reading area with a touch of prehistoric fun. With a few simple materials and a bit of creativity, you can create unique and colorful bookends that are both functional and decorative. Enjoy watching your favorite books stand proudly between these delightful dinosaur creations.
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