DIY ‘I Spy’ Activity Bag

I’m constantly trying to find ways to keep my kids excited about discovering new things. I came up with this this “eye spy” pack that I love to take on trips to keep my younger kids exploring in the car. The I spy activity bag also makes a great birthday party activity; just print out an inventory of treasures and have older children locate as much as they can.

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Supplies:

  • 8 cups kaleidoscope rice
  • ⅓ yard clear vinyl (8 gauge)  **available in all sewing/craft stores**
  • Miscellaneous tidbits: I used old party favors, abandoned game pieces, and random household items
  • Sewing machine and supplies

Instructions:

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Step 1: Fold vinyl over so it is double in thickness and cut the two pieces into a 10″x10″ square.

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Step 2: Use two paper clips to mark your start/stop position for stitching, approximately six inches apart. Do not stitch in between the two paper clips to leave an opening for filling.

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Step 3: Using a zig-zag stitch at a ¼” seam, stitch around the entire pouch.

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Step 4: Make sure to backstitch at each start/stop position.

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Step 5: Begin filling the pouch with the colored rice. I found it easier to use a funnel.

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Step 6: Once it is about halfway filled, place your discovery pieces in.

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Step 7: Fill in the rest with rice. Your bag will look half empty, but once it is flat, the gaps will fill in.

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Step 8: Fold the top of the pouch over and try to get out as much air as possible.

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Step 9: Sew the opening closed with a zig-zag stitch.

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Step 10: Let the little hands explore!

More DIY Activities for Kids:

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