Memory pins and Velcro badges are a delightful and practical way to track your family’s adventures. They’re easy to make, affordable, and take up minimal space—a perfect fit for RV travelers or anyone short on storage. This creative idea comes from my friend, Mrs. Ann, who lives in a travel trailer and is preparing for a full-time road trip.
Memory pins can be crafted from various keepsakes such as magnets, patches, or even brochures, while Velcro badges can be added to a fabric board for easy rearrangement. Both cost between $1 and $10 each and are lightweight, making them ideal for any travel setup. In this guide, I’ll show you how to create your own memory pins and Velcro badges to preserve your travel stories.
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What You’ll Need
To get started, gather a few simple supplies:
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Pin-backs: Preferably self-adhesive ones, available in bulk on
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Amazon.
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Badges, Magnets, or Patches: Choose your favorites from state and national parks or gift shops.
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Super Glue or Velcro Strips: Use gel super glue for pins and adhesive-backed Velcro for badges.
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Display Space: Curtains, backpacks, or a Velcro fabric board.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Memory Pins
Creating memory pins is a fun project for the entire family. Follow these easy steps:
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Choose Your Material: Pick a patch, magnet, or any keepsake you’d like to transform into a pin.
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Prepare the Glue: Use gel-based super glue for better control and less mess.
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Attach the Pin-Back: Remove the adhesive strip from the pin-back.
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Apply the Glue: Apply a small amount of super glue to the back of the pin-back. Be careful not to overdo it.
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Position the Pin-Back: Place the pin-back in the center of your chosen item and hold it down for about 10 seconds. Watch your fingers to avoid sticking them!
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Let It Set: Allow the pin to dry for a few hours before displaying.
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Display Your Pins: Pin them on your curtains, vests, or a designated pinboard. Enjoy seeing your travel memories at a glance!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Memory Velcro Badges
Velcro badges offer a versatile way to showcase travel memories. Here’s how to create them:
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Select Your Badge or Patch: Choose patches, magnets, or fabric-backed souvenirs.
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Cut the Velcro: Use adhesive-backed Velcro strips or dots, cutting them to fit the back of the badge.
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Attach the Velcro: Apply one side of the Velcro to the back of the badge and press firmly.
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Prepare the Display Board: Use a fabric-covered board or hanging strip where badges can attach securely.
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Arrange Your Badges: Stick badges onto the Velcro display board, rearranging them as you collect more.
Enjoying the Memories
Our kids love pointing at their pins and badges, sharing stories that begin with, “Mom, do you remember when…?” These keepsakes help us relive treasured moments from state parks, national parks, and even Fulltime Families Explorer Badge adventures.
We’ve also found that memory pins and Velcro badges are easier to manage than sewing or ironing patches onto jackets or vests. Simply attach them and swap them out as needed.
Where to Find Supplies
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Amazon: Find pin-backs, Velcro strips, and gel super glue in bulk for cost efficiency.
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Craft Stores: Michaels and similar stores offer a great selection of patches, magnets, and crafting tools.
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Travel Destinations: Many parks and tourist attractions sell unique badges and souvenirs.
Tips for Personalizing Memory Pins and Badges
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Mix & Match Materials: Use a combination of patches, magnets, and even paper cutouts for variety.
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Kid Involvement: Let the kids choose and design their pins and badges for extra sentimental value.
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Creative Displays: Consider hanging them on a dedicated corkboard, fabric map, or travel-themed display area.
Start Your Memory Collection Today
Memory pins and Velcro badges are a charming and inexpensive way to capture the spirit of your travels. They help transform everyday souvenirs into personal mementos that spark joy and storytelling. Start your collection today and relive your favorite adventures with every glance at your memory pins and badges!
