How to Make a Glass or "Ceramic" Plate for Your Grandparents

Grandchildren are special. Everyone knows that. So any gift handmade by a grandchild holds tremendous sentimental value. This easy to make glass plate will be a source of loving memories for any grandparent lucky enough to receive one.

You will need to make a trip to the local super center or craft store for a few supplies. You may as well get enough for both sets of grandparents. You don't want anyone to get jealous.

Materials needed:

Clear glass plate(s) depending on how many you want to make

Glue/sealer--Material glue that dries clear (Mod Podge glue/sealer/finish works great)

Enough material to cover plates-you could use Christmas material, or floral, or even solids.

Photo-choose any photo and copy it on the printer so you don't have to use the original.

A computer and printer-optional-to print out the holiday message, or you can hand write it.

A plate stand (Many of your dollar marts have them.)

Decide on the photo and how you want to do the message before you begin.

Example: A photo of the grandkids with the message of "Happy Holidays! Grandpa & Grandma in a half circle at the top and "Love, John & Mary" at the bottom.

If using a computer to print out the message, you can use a program such as adobe photo workshop or a print program that will allow you to print in various shapes. If you don't want to use a computer, then write the message on the material that you will be using. Use a permanent marker and make sure it will fit on the plate. You may want to practice the writing size and placement before actually putting it on the material.

Once you have your message and photo picked, cut the excess off. It's okay to leave a small border of white to hold the message together. For the photo, try to cut everything except the kids out of it.

Now cut out a circle of the material approximately one inch larger than the plate. Using a soft cloth, clean the back of the glass plate.

Make sure you have your photos and messages ready before you apply the glue.

Apply a thin layer of the glue to the back of the clear plate. Position the photo and messages in their correct positions face down on the back of the plate. When you turn the plate over, the images will show through the glass.

Place the material face down and smooth it over the messages and the photos. Try to gently remove any wrinkles. Apply a second thin coat of the glue over the back of the material.

Allow to dry completely. Once the glue has dried, carefully trim off the excess material around the edge.

Clean the front of the plate to remove fingerprints and any smudges of glue. Don't forget to include the stand to hold the special plate.

And remember, if the material is a little wrinkled and the photo is not exactly centered, it's okay. Grandma and Grandpa will be as proud of it as if it were made at Tiffany's because their grandchild created a lasting memory for them.