Tools and materials
Sandpaper
Paint brush
Roller kit
Sharpie
Primer
Painters tape
PVA
Pebbles
Ice-cream stick
Goggle eyes
Paints
Placemat
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Paint the board
Paint the topcoat on your playing board. Apply the paint quite thickly to that it covers the base layer.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. Winners are grinners
Game on. You’re ready to play your very own game of Monster Noughts and Crosses.