If you like thinking outside the box, you are going to enjoy this week’s craft. While some may struggle to see uses for a mousetrap aside from their typical role, we see the opportunity to create a magnetic clip for receipts, reminders, coupons, and more. You can even pick a theme for each clip you make, including sports, food, movie characters, and more. Let’s see how you can create yours! 

Supplies

Purchase your magnets on our online store. All magnets necessary to complete this project are linked in the full supply list below. We offer same-day shipping if your order is placed by 3 PM EST, allowing you to start creating as soon as possible. All other supplies can be purchased at your favorite craft store. 

 

Gather these supplies: 

 

  • Acrylic paint in a few colors of your choosing
  • Wooden mouse traps
  • Matte Mod Podge 
  • Foam brush
  • Paintbrush
  • Stickers, gems, string, or other embellishments that match your chosen theme.
  • Disc magnets (1” x 1/16”) 
  • Crafting glue
  • Pliers

 

Creating Your Mousetrap Magnet Clip

This project should be completed by an adult or someone who is at least of high school age with adult supervision. Parts of the trap will be removed, but the spring and hammer can still pinch a young child’s finger. Have your kids tell you how they would like the clips to be decorated and then bring their ideas to life.

 

Follow these simple steps to create your project: 

 

  1. Gather all materials and decide how you want to decorate each magnet. 
  2. Remove everything from the mousetrap aside from the spring and the hammer (the large U-shaped piece connected to the spring that would usually come down on the mouse) with pliers.
  3. Paint each mousetrap with the color(s) you have selected. It may take two or three coats to cover the wood and logos on each trap fully. Be sure to wait for each coat to dry before adding the next layer. 
  4. Flip over your mousetraps and glue one disc magnet on the back. Let it dry.
  5. After everything has dried, you can decorate your mousetraps. Place some stickers on each trap or glue on gems and other embellishments. 
  6. If you would like, you can give the clips a nice finish by applying a coat of Matte Mod Podge with a foam brush. 
  7. With everything dry, you can pull back on the hammer of the mousetrap and use it as a clip to hold papers and other items! Place them in your office, on the fridge, or wherever you see fit.

Get in Your Groove with Apex Magnets

With your new magnetic clips done, it is time to see what other fun projects you can create with our magnets. Find your next project by visiting our full list of blogs or by watching our full YouTube tutorials. As your magnetic solutions provider, we are here to help you with product recommendations, custom magnet orders, and more. Speak with us at any time by calling 1-304-257-1193. One of our magnet enthusiasts would be happy to speak with you.