Shelf Markers

Are you dissatisfied with the shelf markers you've bought? I know that the plastic ones I've purchased snap in half pretty early in the year. For some reason, my students want to experiment and find out how far they can bend the pieces of plastic before they break.
And the design choices can be limited. Do you want some really cute shelf markers, that will last longer, too? They are soooo simple to make!

First, go to your local hardware store and ask them if they will donate paint stirrers to your library. I went to my local Home Depot and they gave me about 40 paint stirrers. Free!
(I try to mention the donation whenever I get a chance. I DO appreciate businesses that support teachers! Don't you?)

Next, paint the stirrers a solid color. Choose a color that matches your library decor and the accent paper you plan to use. Spray paint would be quicker, but messy. I used acrylic paint and a foam brush to paint both sides and the edges.

Then, choose a piece of scrapbook paper that matches your library theme. I have a space theme in my library, so I cut out little robots to decorate our paint stirrers.

Use Mod Podge to adhere the decorative paper pieces to the top (handle) of the paint stirrer.
Then use a foam brush to brush on a layer of Mod Podge over the top of the paper scraps.
After that dries, spray clear acrylic sealer over the top of the paper, so it won't be sticky.

 Ta da! Ready for school library action!

Have you made your own shelf markers? Tell us about it! Send us a link to the photo!