Suggestions for finding rectangle mirrors for mirror books?
I like the idea of the 2 mirror book in the Moebius Noodle book, but have found it surprisingly difficult to locate reasonably affordable mirrors that would work. Any leads? Are you using glass or plastic?
Have you looked in the recreation store or dept for signaling mirrors? They are plastic backed (for safety) and generally inexpensive
example: http://www.rei.com/product/745496/coghlans-featherweight-mirror
I usually find mirrors in craft stores or home improvement stores. Craft stores have square mirrors from tiny (1 inch) to medium-size (4-5 inches). Home improvement stores have foot-by-foot mirror tiles. I pick mirrors without bevels, to see what happens in the corner. Sometimes dollar stores have mirror candle holders, or framed mirrors with easily removable frames. You may want to cover the edges with something like glue or duct tape, because glass edges are somewhat sharp.
I will be offering cheap mirror book kits with face-to-face events; is it something we should offer online as well?
It's funny, the craft and home improvement stores I went to must be understocked in this area... I could only find the tiny mirrors. Will look again. Sounds like you've been mostly using glass mirrors in your groups?
A cheap mirror book kit online would be cool. I have this book, which I was given as a child, and it came with a little metal mirror. And this book is really neat, if you haven't seen it (my kiddo loves it now):
My mom found some 5" square glass craft mirrors at a craft shop (Hobby Lobby) for $2.50 apiece, so we went ahead and purchased a few of those. My husband found some 12" square tiles that can be ordered on the Home Depot site (I think even for pick-up at store)... glass, 6 for $10.
Send your mirror adventure photos for our blog or parent newsletter! Kids + mirror book + camera = lots of silly math fun!
A sheet of reflective mylar glued to a piece of cardboard would be a low-cost alternative, and it wouldn't have the risks of the sharp edges that glass and metal might have.
