Mix and Match Clothespin Mermaids

I have a two year old who loves mermaids.  We've been enjoying the book Mermaid Dreams about a little mermaid who is getting ready for bed.  When I saw Red Ted Art's mermaid dolls, I was inspired to make my own.  I had the pinchy kind of clothespins, but it worked out great because my daughter can switch the tails.

These would be cute in done in the rainbow, especially if your little one is still learning colors, but I know my girl and any mermaid not clothed in red or pink would not get played with.  I chose some scrapbook paper in her favorite colors and made the tails.  I laminated them so they'd be a little more durable.

I also used construction paper for the mermaid heads.  I added crowns that matched the tails and laminated these too.

I used homemade mod podge (half glue and half water) to cover the clothespins with a strip of coordinating paper.  The bikini tops are two circles made with a paper punch.

I added ribbons knotted on the ends for the arms.  I hot glued these behind the front of the clothespin.

Finally, I hot glued the heads behind the arms.

Ready to mix and match!