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How to make a monster noughts and crosses game

A monster themed noughts and crosses game on a wooden table

Overview

Who doesn't love noughts and crosses? This version is called Monster Noughts and Crosses and the whole family can play. Here's how to make your game at home.

Steps

  1. 1

    Gather your tools and materials

    Below are all of the tools and materials you'll need to complete this project.
  2. 2

    Apply primer to the placemat

    First, you'll need to apply primer to the placemat. Do this because it will make the colours of your board really pop. Once you've primed the mat, leave it to dry for about 20 minutes.
  3. 3

    Make your monsters

    Select eight pebbles. These will transform into cool little monsters for your game. Because the pebbles have a glossy finish, it's a good idea to give each a light sand first so the paint will stick properly.
    Nine flat white pebbles to use as playing pieces
  4. 4

    Start painting

    Next up, get creative with the paint selection. Choose your favourite colours. We chose vibrant red and orange but select any colour you like. Acrylic paints work well and are safe for kids to use. Once you've painted the pebbles, set them aside to dry.
  5. 5

    Paint the board

    Paint the topcoat on your playing board. Apply the paint quite thickly to that it covers the base layer.
    A flat game board being painted with a base coat of white
  6. 6

    Decorate the monsters

    This is the fun part. Give your monsters  some character. Glue on goggle eyes – try one, two, maybe even three. Attach these with PVA glue. Then use your sharpie to draw on faces and really bring your monsters to life.
  7. 7

    Make the board grid

    To make the board grid, use your painters tape. Create a grid or pattern of squares. Measure it out with a ruler, or just guess how far apart to put your tape. Be sure to smooth the edges of the tape as you go.
  8. 8

    Paint the squares

    We painted our squares a bright blue but select any colour you like. You'll need to apply two coats. Between each coat, allow time for the paint to dry. Once the final coat is dry, gently remove the tape.
  9. 9

    Winners are grinners

    Game on. You're ready to play your very own game of Monster Noughts and Crosses.

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Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.