Kid DIY Wood Craft: Bug Themed Switch Plate Project
This Bug themed switch plate is the perfect finishing touch to a child’s bedroom or bathroom! All you need is a wood switch plate, some bug stamps, and some paint!
Creating Bug Themed Switch Plates is an easy project that the kids can help you make. My favorite part of this craft project is that any real wood or cheap plain fake wood Switch Plate is perfect for this Bug Paint Technique.
You can sue bug stamps in any shape from ladybugs, spiders, beetles, and even butterflies! Let the kids help choose the stamps and they will really feel like part of this craft project.
Here is a list of supplies you will need to start making these Bug Themed Switch Plates:
- Primer
- Paint
- A variety of 2″, 3″, or 4″ paintbrushes
- Bug stamps
- Sandpaper
- Drop clothes
- Switch Plates
Have the kids help you sand the surface of your switch plates. If you are using plastic switch plates, then you can skip this step.
Now, you are ready to put a coat of primer. The kids can help with this step as well!
Make sure you wipe away any dust before you paint on the primer.
If you are using a cheap fake wood Switch Plates this is a very important step. Your Bug Stamped Paint will not stick to your surface if you don’t sand and then prime your Switch Plate surface.
Now, you need to allow your primer to dry completely.
Put on a coat of your base paint. I think it looks good to paint the switch plate either the same color as your walls or even the same color as your window trim. You can really paint them in any color though.
Use spray paint for a smooth surface.
Now you are ready to paint your bug stamps. I like to use those pre-made rubber stamps in bug patterns you find at the local craft store. You can choose any kind of bug form ladybugs to spiders to fit your theme.
Dab you bug stamp into a new paint color. Now, carefully press it onto the switch plate cover. This paint color should tie into the other colors in your room. Think of it as an accent paint color. You can match it to bedding or pillow in your child’s bedroom.
Carefully remove the bug stamp and add more in another spot. You can do this process until you achieve the Bug Switch Plate look you want for your vintage family room, little boy’s room, or little girl’s room.
Now, let the stamped bug switch plates dry.
To finish the bug, spider, or butterfly switch plates I recommend a coat to three coats of clear acrylic spray paint. Your painted and stamped bugs could get scratched off if you do not do this step.
This clear acrylic spray paint will also help you when you want to clean your bug switch plates. You can sue a magic eraser or a damp cloth with a little Windex on it.
DIY projects can be a really fun and educational activity for your kids. So if they show any interest, support them by joining them, and even providing the tools that would allow them to hone their skills better (ready-to-use woodworking kits on this page are great examples of that). More than these things, your guidance will encourage them and your involvement in the projects will let you have more time to bond as well.
