Sign Your Lunch
Make a personalized lunchbox name tag using paper, markers, stickers, and clear tape; decorate, laminate with tape, and attach it to your lunch.
Step-by-step guide to Sign Your Lunch
Step 1
Gather all your materials and set them on a clean flat surface.
Step 2
Cut a rectangle from the paper about the size of a credit card using scissors.
Step 3
Round the corners of the rectangle by cutting small curves with the scissors.
Step 4
Write your name large and clear on the paper tag using a marker.
Step 5
Decorate the tag with stickers and little drawings using your colouring materials.
Step 6
Lay the decorated tag flat and cover the front with overlapping strips of clear tape until the whole front is sealed.
Step 7
Flip the tag over and cover the back with overlapping strips of clear tape until the back is sealed.
Step 8
Trim any extra tape around the edges with scissors so the tag looks neat.
Step 9
Choose where to attach the tag on your lunchbox and stick it on securely with more clear tape.
Step 10
Share a photo of your finished lunchbox name tag on DIY.org.
Help!?
What can I use if I don't have clear tape or a laminator for sealing the tag?
If you don't have clear tape for the steps that cover the front and back, use a laminator sheet, self-adhesive badge laminates, or overlapping strips of packing tape to seal and waterproof the paper tag.
My tape keeps wrinkling and the marker smudges — how do I fix that when sealing and decorating?
When covering the front with overlapping strips of clear tape, smooth each strip from the center outward with a ruler or the back of a spoon and let the marker dry fully before taping to prevent smudges.
How can I adjust this activity for different age groups?
For preschoolers, pre-cut the credit-card-sized rectangle and let them stick stickers and colour with a chunky marker; for elementary kids let them write their name, round the corners and trim the tape themselves; for older kids encourage detailed drawings, photo inserts, or using a hole punch and keyring before sealing.
What are easy ways to make the lunchbox name tag more durable or personalized?
To enhance the finished tag, add a small photo, QR code, or glitter pen design before you cover the front and back with clear tape, trim the edges neatly, and attach it with a keyring or extra tape to the lunchbox before sharing a photo on DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to Sign Your Lunch
Back to School Sign Language Vocabulary: WHO ARE YOU?
4 Videos
Back to School Sign Language Vocabulary: WHO ARE YOU?
Back To School Sign Language Vocabulary: GREETINGS!
Learn to sign the alphabet | Magic Hands | CBeebies
Learn to Sign with Mr Tumble | CBeebies
Facts about paper crafts for kids
🥪 Adding a name tag to a lunchbox helps kids spot their food faster and cuts down on lost or swapped lunches.
✍️ Markers come in water-based (easy to wash) and permanent (waterproof) types—pick the right one for your project and clothes!
🎨 Decorating with stickers, doodles, and color not only looks fun but also helps kids express their personal style.
🛡️ Wrapping a paper name tag in clear tape is a quick DIY lamination that makes it water-resistant and tougher against spills.
✂️ Papercrafting (cutting, decorating, sticking) builds fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination while making something useful.
How do I make a personalized lunchbox name tag (Sign Your Lunch)?
What materials do I need to make a lunchbox name tag?
What ages is the Sign Your Lunch activity suitable for?
What are the benefits of making a personalized lunchbox name tag?
