I stole this idea from this wonderful & helpful post. So, you won't hurt my feelings if you want to just skip this tutorial and check out hers. I just made mine a different size, but essentially they're pretty much the same things.
One other fun addition... I made a few templates for the MOPS ladies to use if they want. I'd be happy to post them out here for the world, but I couldn't figure out how to get a PDF on here and I'm tired... so I guess you'll just have to join my MOPS group if you want them.
Shrinky Dinky Name Tags
Materials:
• Shrinky Dink ruff ‘n ready sheet
• craft knife
• ruler
• hole punch
• permanent markers
• dry erase marker
• templates (optional, but you can use clip art and print text to trace)
• ribbon
• oven
• brown paper bag
• baking sheet
Directions:
1. Cut Shrinky Dink sheet (approx. 8"x10") into four (4) equal pieces (approx. 4"x5"); round corners, if desired. Punch hole in one edge.
2. Decorate your Shrinky Dink! You will need to draw on the “rough” side of the Shrinky Dink. For the name, write the name on the smooth side of the Shrinky Dink with your dry erase marker, then turn the tag over and trace the letters (backwards now) onto the rough side of the tag with your permanent markers.
Tip 1: You can use the templates as a guide, inspiration, or just free-hand the tag. I recommend getting the name where you want it first, and then the adding the design around the name.
Tip 2: Everything becomes darker when it shrinks. If you think your colors look a little light, that’s good because it will be just right when it shrinks. Tiny smudges will also get a lot darker when it shrinks, so be careful not toyou’re your hand across the tag.
Tip 3: The great thing about writing the name with dry erase first is you can re-do it over and over again! However,, be sure to completely wipe the dry erase off, because even a fine trace left of the tag will be amplified and show up when it shrinks.
3. Line your baking sheet with a piece of the brown paper bag. Bake your Shrinky Dink in an oven or a toaster oven according to the package directions. (Typically about 325 degrees for 2-3 minutes.) When it shrinks down and becomes completely flat again, take it out and press it down with a piece of paper or oven mit to flatten it completely.
Tip: Watch it closely but don’t freak out when it starts to bend and curl. It will flatten back out. Leave the oven door closed, and don’t be tempted to open – you’ll loose all your heat and have to add a lot more baking time. The only exception: I have had them curl into themselves and stick once or twice, so if you see it getting close to touching you might want to try to save it by sticking your hand in and trying to flatten it down with a hot pad.
4. Thread your ribbon through the hole and tie it around your kids’ stuff!
