I used rulers in a project awhile ago, and I’ve had a leftover bag of ruler pieces in my drawer that I’ve been wanting to do something with. With the end of school coming, I thought they would be darling to use as a teacher gift. I made a simple ruler necklace for my girls’ teachers–just a little something that we thought would be fun for them to wear to school!
I’m kind in love with rulers, and I think is SO cute! I thought about different ways to put the words on the ruler, but the slick surface and tiny letters eliminated most of them. I wanted it to be simple and easy, so I printed the text out on white cardstock, then sealed and adhered it on with Mod Podge. My girls can’t wait to give them to their teachers at the end of the school year!
They don’t have to be for teachers–you can put any name you like, even your kids’ names. I thought it would be fun to use the number that is their age…so cutting out the 8 inch mark for my girls, and adding their name or monogram. You could also make these as party favors for back to school parties or any school-themed party!
SUPPLIES:
– Ruler
– Drill
– Stain
-White cardstock
-Distress Ink
-Mod Podge & Foam Brush
-Chain
DIRECTIONS:
1. Cut your ruler into the desired width. I made mine just about 1 1/2 inches, so I could see two numbers. If you were making it with just one number (as in someone’s age) you could make it smaller if you like.
2. Stain the edges and face of the ruler if desired. I used Dark Walnut by Minwax. You only need a little…it goes a long way.
3. Drill a hole at the top of the ruler, big enough for a chain. You could also use a piece of that elastic used in jewelry making–the clear kind. I don’t know what it’s called, lol!Â
4. Create your text in Word, PicMonkey, or Photoshop. I made mine approx. 1 inch across and 3/4 inch high. Print on to white cardstock, cut out, then distress edges if desired. I like the contrast, so I always do it.Â
5. Secure the text in place with a piece of double stick tape or dab of craft glue, then use a foam brush to apply the mod podge. Start with a little–you don’t want to overdo it. Let dry completely.
6. Slide your ruler onto a chain! You can get inexpensive chains online, at large retail stores, and stores like Claire’s. I think I’ve seen them at Hobby Lobby and Michaels. Like I said earlier, you could also use a piece of the clear, stretchy elastic used in jewelry making, It’s inexpensive, and found at hobby and craft stores.Â
Kierste Wade is a published author, blogger, and mom to six. With more than 20 years DIY and project experience, she has been sharing ideas on her blog since 2009. Focusing on simple and doable projects, she loves to share attainable ideas for all things home, holidays, and family. Kierste has been featured on Better Homes and Gardens, HGTV, American Farmhouse Magazine (print and online) Taste of Home, Country Living, and more.
