After a record dry spell, the rain has returned to Seattle. During long stretches of rain its sometimes a struggle to find stimulating things for my kid to do that do not involve videos or tearing up the house (both favorite pastimes!) Luckily, a friend just introduced me to Perler Beads which are a fantastic rainy day activity. How did I not know about these until now?
If you are not familiar with them, they are small plastic beads that you arrange on a template, choosing your own colors and patterns. Then when you have your design just the way you want it, you heat it up with an iron (the same one you would use to press a shirt!) and the beads fuse together, making a solid version of your design. You protect the iron by putting a piece of wax paper over the beads before ironing.
We had a blast making ornaments with them. I have to admit that I loved creating with them too! I may need to get my own set 
So, while I titled this post “Kid Stuff” I think these are great for grown-ups. Sort of meditative. And who could resist all those delightful colors?
Our beads and templates
The beginnings of my star on the template…
Wonder-kid’s heart template.
My finished star 
Wonder-kid’s rainbow heart.
Colorful creations!
Glad you’re both liking them! You’re right! They can be meditative. : )
Janine, you are the best!
We (my sister & I) used to make stuff with these when we were little! She does this with her kids now! So much fun.
I really am a little obsessed with them right now…I do need my own kit!