Free Laser File for Number & Letter Magnets

If you're looking for a fun way to help kids learn letters and numbers, these DIY wooden magnets are a great place to start.

They're simple to make with a laser cutter and perfect for hands-on learning at home or in the classroom.

I’ve included the free laser file and a quick tutorial to walk you through the process.

It’s an easy project that turns playtime into something more meaningful.

Recipe Video Tutorial

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Supply List

• Laser Cutting Machine
• Number Magnet Laser File
• 3mm MDF
• Acrylic Paint
• Makeup Sponge Wedges
• Masking Tape
• Packing Paper
• Self-Healing Mat
• Steel Ruler
• Craft Knife
• Magnet Sheet
• 3in1 Glue

I am making the number magnets in this tutorial, but these instructions also apply to the letters.

Free – Purchase Checkout Added to cart

Free – Purchase Checkout Added to cart

Laser Cut

Pull the file into your laser-cutting software and cut.

Since all lasers are different, I do not share settings. It is essential to understand your machine's settings before beginning the project.

I cut my numbers out of 3mm MDF. This is my favorite material because it is cheaper than wood and paints easily.

Do not cut the magnet sheet with your laser. Most magnetic sheets are made of PVC and release toxic gases when cut with a laser.

Prepare Workspace

To prepare my workspace for painting, I first tape a piece of packing paper to protect my table.

I take a length of masking tape, fold it over on itself with the sticky side out, and stick it to the paper on my table.

Group the numbers into the colors you want. I tried to arrange them in a random order and divided them into three groups for each color.

The tape holds the pieces so I don't get paint all over my fingers, and the paper protects my table.

I like to paint these small pieces with cosmetic sponges because they are cheaper than sponge brushes and work just as well.

I'll cut them in half with scissors to make them even more cost-effective.

Paint

I want my colors to be vibrant, so I am starting with a white base.

To paint with the makeup sponge wedge, tap the fat end into the paint, tap off the excess, and then dab the paint on the number pieces.

I use a bouncing movement, but you can also "brush" it on with the fat end of the sponge.

Let this base coat dry, and then apply the colored paint.

Apply two coats of the colored paint, letting them dry between each coat.

Add Magnets

You can buy magnets that already have an adhesive side, saving you the need for glue.

I used what I already had, which were non-adhesive sheets.

To cut the magnet sheets, you can either cut strips with scissors or use a ruler and craft knife to cut on a self-healing mat. Cut strips to ½ inch wide.

I prefer the ruler method because it keeps the strips straight, but since they are going on the back, it doesn't really matter.

Turn the numbers over with the painted side down, exposing the back.

Pay attention to which side of the magnetic sheet is magnetic. You can test on any magnetic surface, like a refrigerator or a baking sheet.

I may have glued a few down before I realized this, but the glue had not set, so I was able to fix it. 🤦‍♀️

To measure the magnetic strips for each number, hold them to the back and cut with scissors.

Apply a bead of glue to the back of the number and place the magnetic strip, magnet side up, into the glue.

For the curvy letters, cut smaller squares of the magnetic strip, and glue those on.

Final Thoughts

The finished magnets are so cute and perfect for small hands to play with and learn.

Tip: Play with the magnets on a baking sheet if your fridge isn't magnetic!

The matching alphabet magnets are super cute, too!

How will you use these fun magnets? Share in the comments.

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