DIY Themed Learning Blocks

I've seen story blocks that use the same idea of cutting apart children's books. I wanted a good mix between story blocks and the typical ABC/123 wood blocks you find in the store. 

So I set about doing it my own way. Naturally.

Here's a sneak peek at the final product and then we'll look at what went into making them:

First you'll need to decide what story you'd like to use. I made a pit stop at Half Price Books on my way to the craft store. These books were only $1.99 -- heck of a deal!

And of course you'll need blocks to make learning blocks! I like the ones at JoAnn best. 

They're 1.25" squares. Three come in a pack for $1.99.

Michaels has blocks also, but they only come in 1" or Jumbo (I think 2").

I decided I didn't want the 'wood look', so I picked up some white paint as well. 

And a craft project isn't complete without some Mod Podge! 

We'll use that tho glue the paper and seal the blocks later.

 Here is the difference between painted and unpainted. 

You could get crazy and use a fun color instead of white!

And you'll need some scrapbook paper. 

I used all the major colors. These are learning blocks after all.

And you'll probably want a contraption similar to this to cut the paper into squares. I wanted a little bit of my white block to show, so I cut all of my paper squares to 1". If you don't want as much block to show, cut them a little less than 1.25".

And some letter/number stickers! 

Now go through and pick out the pictures you want on your blocks. 

I traced mine to make sure they were small enough.

Rub some mod podge on the top of your painted block and lay your picture on. 

Apply a little pressure to make sure it sticks.

 Do that on all sides of your blocks with your paper. 

The color choices and patterns are up to you!

 Now add your stickers!

I did 1 through 10...

 And A through Z. There were empty sides so some letters are repeated.

 Add a final layer of mod podge to everything to seal.

{Yes. Yes that is a box of Thin Mints on the counter...}

Simple as that. If you make these I would love to see!!

P.S.

These blocks are also similar to the blocks I did last spring.

xoxo

Momma B