Ingredients
- 4 sheets of heavyweight cardstock, 8.5 by 11 inches, in white, pink, coral, pale yellow, mint, or other summer colors
- 1 sheet of medium-weight cardstock, 8.5 by 11 inches, for backing shapes and extra details
- 1 sheet of brown or dark gray cardstock, 8.5 by 11 inches, for chocolate lines, seeds, or outlines
- 1 glue stick, 0.28 to 0.30 ounces, acid-free if available
- 1 small bottle of clear-drying craft glue, 2 fluid ounces (optional)
- 1 small bottle of water-based matte sealer, 4 fluid ounces, such as a decoupage sealer
- 4 small ceramic or flexible rubber magnets, about 1/2 inch wide each
- 1 pair of precision scissors, 4 to 5 inches long
- 1 pencil, standard No. 2
- 1 white eraser, 2 inches long
- 1 black fine-tip permanent marker, 0.5 to 0.7 millimeter tip
- 1 small flat craft brush, 1/2 inch wide
- 1 sheet of scrap paper, 8.5 by 11 inches
- 1 sheet of wax paper, 12 by 16 inches
- 1 clean ruler, 12 inches long
- 1 disposable table covering, at least 24 by 36 inches
Instructions
- Cover the table with the disposable paper covering before you set out the cardstock.
- Choose four dessert shapes: a popsicle, cupcake, ice cream scoop, and watermelon slice. Sketch each base shape on scrap paper first, keeping the finished pieces between 2 and 3 inches tall.
- Cut the four base shapes from the colored cardstock using slow, steady cuts.
- Cut the secondary layers for each dessert.
- Lay all the pieces on the table before gluing and arrange until color balance feels right.
- Apply the glue stick to the back of the first layer and press it onto its base, smoothing outward.
- Add the remaining layers one dessert at a time using clear-drying craft glue for small details.
- Let the layered desserts rest on wax paper for 20 to 30 minutes until dry.
- Add simple details with the black fine-tip marker, keeping the marks sparse.
- Brush a very thin coat of matte sealer over the front of each dessert.
- Let the first sealer coat dry for 20 to 30 minutes, then add a second thin coat if necessary.
- Turn each piece over and attach a magnet near the upper middle of the back with a dot of clear-drying craft glue.
- Let the magnets cure for at least 2 hours before testing.
Notes
Use scissors with points facing away from your hand. Keep small paper pieces away from young children and pets. Water-based sealer needs airflow; work in a well-ventilated area.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
