Here is another insect from our Bugs Galore collection. This time we are dealing with maybe the cutest of all bugs: Ladybug.
In the early days of using this craft, I did my research to find out that ladybugs come in colors other than red and black. I was so happy to hear that and often encourage my students to go wild and not use the traditional color combo of red with black dots.
LadyB in blue. What colors can you experiment with: pink, white, yellow, orange, gray, black and brown
Kit Supplies: 1 big wood circle (body) with one pre-drilled one, I small wood circle (head) with 3 pre-drilled holes, 6 mini wood plugs (legs), 2 wires (antennae), 1 mini brad, 2 plastic ear ends (eyes)
Additional Supplies: black marker, paint (optionally you can use markers, colored pencils and crayons, pliers, paper plates (optional), tacky glue, painters tape (optional)
This step is not necessary if you are using anything other than paint. If you are using paint, then then tear off a small piece of painters tape and roll it on to itself to create something similar to double sided tape. Place it on the back of the wood circles and secure them on a paper plate. Repeat with the other wood circles, making sure to space them enough so that they are not touching each other.
All set and ready for a splash of color.
I started by painting the body and allowing it to dry. Then turning it up side down.
Then I painted around the positions of the legs. I do it this way because it makes it easier to adhere the legs with the body. Trying to glue two painted surfaces almost impossible. So by not painting the two areas that will be glued together, it makes the process easier and less frustrating.
Next, paint the head and the legs in black and allow too dry.
Once dry, add a small drop of glue on all the leg guide points.
Adhere the legs.
Allow to set.
Once the legs have set, its time to draw in the LadyB features: the wings and the dots.
Now is time to join the head to the body. Insert the mini brad through the head and then through the body.
Holding the brad against the head circle, turn the two circles up side down. Then separate the brad legs so that they lay flat on opposing sides on the caterpillar bodies.
Take one of the antennae. Hold the end section with the spiral curl between plier jaws as shown above. Press down on the long wire end to create a 90 degree …
Then insert the antennae from the bottom of the caterpillar.
Insert the antennae through the eye. Repeat on the other side.
Next, use the pliers to create a tight loop on the tip of the antennae. This will prevent the antennae from scratching. Repeat on the other side.
Final step is to shape the antennae. I find that if you have longer antennae, then shaping them towards the back of the body works best otherwise it becomes top heavy and will topple head first every single time.
Absolutely adobos.