We lined a plain wall with white batting and then created sticky felt objects so the children could use their imaginations to create cityscapes, backgrounds, and landscapes.
Use a tape measure to determine the appropriate height and width of the wall area you want to cover. Based on these measurements, cut the batting to size using sturdy scissors. An excellent height range for a felt activity wall is 48" to 60".
After cutting the batting to size, add spray adhesive directly to the center of the wall area. Let stand for two minutes before placing batting.
Start the first batting run in the center of the wall as this will help ensure symmetrical seams.
To ensure a secure fit, add an even layer of spray adhesive to the cutting pad.
Place the batting against the center of the wall starting at the top. Unfold full roll, then use spray adhesive to add additional support over baseboards.
When the batting center piece is secured to the wall, start attaching additional pieces. Make sure the seams meet each other so you can create straight lines.
When all the batting pieces are positioned correctly along the wall, use sturdy scissors to trim the bottom and side edges of the batting. Leave 1/2” of exposed wall around everything. This exposed area will then be covered with fabric, resulting in a crown/frame effect in which the edges of the walls will be slightly rounded by the bat.
Based on the width and height of the wall, cut the felt to size, "railroad" style. In other words, roll the felt widthwise instead of heightwise so you can create horizontal pieces instead of vertical pieces. Starting at the top, use a hot glue gun to secure the felt to the wall at the exposed 1/2" frame area.
On a flat, level surface, use a marker to trace shapes onto the felt. Cut out the shapes with sturdy scissors.
For children to create complete scenes with felt, include a mix of people, animals, buildings, scenery, vehicles, clouds, a sun, moon, lightning, and vehicles.
To add interest, use a variety of building patterns and colors.
Imaginary play begins with everyday items that children see and are familiar with.
Add a bit of the unexpected to help spark kids' creativity.
