Where do old computer keyboards go to die? If they're lucky a dusty cupboard, but most likely they are destined for landfill. There must be millions of keyboard keys laying about just waiting to be turned into something fun and useful. Here is just one idea that lets you spell out cute messages to a loved one. Turn those old keys into magnets with a few inexpensive supplies. Are you ready to get your geek on? Here's how to do it, in five super-easy steps.
Supplies
- An old computer keyboard
- Super-strong magnets (12mm round)
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Flat head screwdriver
- All purpose pliers
Step 1. Getting Started
Remove the keys you'd like to use with a screwdriver, using a levering action. They should pop right out.
Step 2. Remove the Back of the Key
The back of the key will have a plastic protrusion which needs to be removed for the magnet to sit flat onto the surface.
Use your pliers to carefully break the plastic protrusion off in little pieces at a time. The plastic is fairly brittle so it should crumble off if you use a slight twisting motion.
Step 3. Heat Up Your Glue Gun
Once you are happy that you have removed enough plastic, plug in your glue gun and wait for it to heat up. Follow instructions that were supplied with your glue gun.
Step 4. Glue the Back of the Key
Melt a small bead of glue onto the back of the key.
Step 5. Attach the Magnet
Quickly glue on your magnet before the glue cools.
Repeat with as many letters as desired.
Leave Fun Messages on Your Fridge!
There are loads of ways you can have fun with your new keyboard magnets. Leave reminders for your flatmate like, "Pick up milk" or create surprise messages for special occasions - or just to say, "I love you". Awww. You could also use them as a handy and fun way to help kids with their spelling. Why not have spelling bee contests on your fridge?
But as there is only one key for each letter, you will need to use several keyboards to build up enough letters for words with the same letter used more than once. Have fun!
