DIY Magnet Supplies + Step-by-Step Guide

This supply list is a companion to my DIY Magnet Tutorial. If you’re here for the step-by-step breakdown, you’re in the right place! Below, you’ll find a mix of the exact items I personally used along with comparable replacements, plus detailed instructions to help you create a flexible, reusable magnet system that fits your needs.

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Supplies You’ll Need

💡 Note: The printer I originally used (HP OfficeJet 3830) is discontinued. Based on current availability, the HP OfficeJet 8015e may be a comparable option, but I cannot guarantee its performance since I have not personally used it.

Here are the supplies I used or researched as alternatives:

Step 1: Design in Canva

Open Canva (or save time and use my free template below 👇). Create simple squares or rectangles with names, tasks, or leave some blank for flexibility.

get the free canva template

For reference, I used the following sizes for my magnets:

Medium: 4″ x 1.5″
Large: 5″ x 1.5″
Small: 1″ x 1.5″

These worked well for me, but you can always adjust the sizes to fit your needs.

Step 2: Customize

Add names, tasks, or color-code them however you like. Play with fonts, backgrounds, or keep it simple — whatever feels easiest to read.

Step 3: Print on Magnetic Sheets

When you’re ready to print, click the Share button at the top of Canva and select Download. Choose PNG as the file type. If you designed multiple pages, you can either download them all or select only the ones you want to print. Once you click Done, the file will download to your computer.

Next, open the downloaded file and go to Print. Here’s how I set mine up (you can adjust as needed for your printer):

Paper size: 8.5 x 11 inches
Orientation: Portrait
Scale to Fit: Selected
Print Entire Image: Selected

I recommend loading one magnetic sheet at a time to ensure proper alignment and reduce the chance of smearing.

For reference, I used Stone City Glossy 8.5×11 magnetic sheets, which are designed for dye ink inkjet printers. They worked well with my HP OfficeJet 3830.

💡 Note: The HP 3830 is discontinued — check my Amazon Supply List for a current comparable printer option.

Step 4: Laminate for Durability

Apply self-adhesive laminating sheets over your printed magnets. This protects the surface and makes it dry-erase friendly.

(Just note: once the laminate sticks, it’s permanent, so take your time.)

Step 5: Cut Out the Magnets

Use a paper cutter for straight, clean edges or sharp scissors if that’s what you have on hand.

If you’re comfortable with a Cricut, you may be able to set it up to cut the magnets as well — but I chose not to use mine since the magnetic sheets are a bit pricey. I didn’t want to risk damaging them.

Step 6: Arrange and Use

Place your magnets on a whiteboard, fridge, or any magnetic surface. For blank ones, just write directly on them with a dry-erase marker, then wipe them clean when you’re ready to reuse.

✨ Now your magnet system is ready to go — simple, reusable, and completely customizable.

You now have everything you need—supplies, steps, and tools—to create your own DIY magnet system. If you’d like to see how I designed and customized mine from start to finish, check out my full tutorial: “DIY Magnets: Turning Chaos into Calm.” In this tutorial, I share the inspiration behind the project, explain why it works well in various settings, and show you how to adapt it for your home, school, or workspace.