Create an Epic Face Filter w/ TinyIsFiney
Design an epic TinyIsFiney face filter prototype by decorating a printed selfie with markers, stickers, and clear plastic overlays, then photograph your creation.
About this activity
Design an epic TinyIsFiney face filter prototype by decorating a printed selfie with markers, stickers, and clear plastic overlays, then photograph your creation.
What you need
Step by step
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Step 1
Print your favorite selfie on regular paper or pick a printed selfie you already have.
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Step 2
Lay the printed selfie flat on a clean table so it will not move while you work.
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Step 3
Pick a fun filter theme and choose two or three decoration ideas like glittery stars funky glasses or a crown.
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Step 4
Use colouring materials to draw and color filter pieces directly onto the photo where you want them.
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Step 5
Stick stickers onto the photo to add bold shapes and sparkly details.
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Step 6
Ask an adult to help you cut a clear plastic overlay to the same size as your printed selfie.
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Step 7
Tape one short edge of the plastic overlay to the top of the photo so the overlay can lift like a flap.
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Step 8
Draw extra floating effects or highlights on the plastic overlay with markers to make layers for your filter.
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Step 9
Add a second overlay and repeat drawing if you want more depth and dimension.
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Step 10
Place your finished layered filter in bright even light and photograph it from above making sure there is no glare.
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Step 11
Share your finished TinyIsFiney face filter prototype on DIY.org
Fun facts
How do I make an Epic Face Filter with TinyIsFiney?
Start by printing a clear selfie or using a printed photo. Lay it flat and decorate directly with markers and stickers to plan shapes and colors. Cut clear plastic overlays (acetate or transparency film) into shapes, color or add details on them, and layer over the photo to build depth. Secure overlays with small pieces of tape or washi at the top so they lift. Photograph from above in good light to capture your prototype.
What materials do I need to create a TinyIsFiney face filter prototype?
You’ll need a printed selfie (laser or inkjet), non-toxic markers (permanent or washable), stickers, and clear plastic overlays like acetate sheets or transparency film. Also gather scissors, a craft knife (adult use), tape or glue, a ruler, and a smartphone or camera for photographing the final design. Optional: glitter pens, washi tape, colored paper for cutouts, and a cutting mat for safer trimming.
What ages is the TinyIsFiney face filter activity suitable for?
This craft suits ages 4+ with adult supervision. Preschoolers (4–6) can stick stickers and color; they’ll need help with cutting and small pieces. Elementary kids (7–10) can design layers and take photos with guidance. Tweens and teens can create complex overlays, experiment with layering effects, and practice photography and editing. Always supervise scissors, craft knives, and small embellishments to prevent accidents.
What are the benefits of making TinyIsFiney face filter prototypes?
Designing face filter prototypes encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and visual thinking as kids plan layers and effects. It introduces basic design concepts like layering, contrast, and composition, plus simple photography practice when capturing the prototype. The activity is largely screen-free, boosting hands-on problem solving and confidence. Working together also supports communication and collaborative planning when families brainstorm filter ideas.
Watch & Learn
Need help?
What can we use instead of a clear plastic overlay if we can't find one?
If you can't find a clear plastic overlay for the 'tape one short edge' step, use a clean clear report cover, an overhead transparency sheet, or a cut-open laminating pouch trimmed to the same size as your printed selfie.
My markers smudge on the overlay and my photo photographs with glare — how do I fix that?
To avoid marker smudging on the plastic in 'Draw extra floating effects...' let ink dry fully or use permanent fine-tip markers or paint pens, and reduce glare in the 'Place your finished layered filter' step by photographing in diffuse light (near a north-facing window or under a white sheet) and angling the camera slightly.
How can I adapt this activity for very young kids or older kids?
For younger kids, simplify the 'Use colouring materials' and 'Stick stickers' steps by pre-cutting the plastic overlay and letting them only color and place stickers with adult help for cutting, while older kids can add multiple overlays, detailed marker shading, and experiment with photographing each layer for depth.
What are some fun ways to enhance or personalize our TinyIsFiney face filter prototype?
To enhance the filter beyond 'Add a second overlay', attach small brads or paper hinges so parts like a crown can flip, layer coloured cellophane between overlays for tinted effects, or photograph each layer separately to combine or animate in a simple phone app before sharing on DIY.org.