Magnetic Counting Fish

I saw these great counting fish on Counting Coconuts and just had to make a set for Mischief. I had a lot of fun (and no small amount of frustration) making them. Most bits I had lying around and only bought the washers, the magnets and the embroidery thread.

We had a good time choosing colours, embellishments and shapes. I re-learnt blanket stitch as I haven't done it since school. I stuffed them with shredded paper for a nice tactile feel and sound. I added the corresponding numbers to the reverse of the fish with a fabric pen to help number recognition.

She already loves playing with them but doesn't quite get the fishing rod and holds the stick in one hand and the magnet in the other, she then proceeds to collect as many as the fish as possible in one go. It is a hit though and is helping colour recognition as well as numbers.