Learn how to make a memory game for kids with this simple tutorial! This gnome game is fun for all ages; free printable included.
![Sherlock Gnomes matching game](https://modpodgerocksblog.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sherlock-Gnomes-Game-01.jpg.webp)
I’m a HUGE fan of garden gnomes. If you’ve been to my house in the last 13 years, you’ve seen the exact same garden gnome coming up to the entry way. I take him everywhere I go, including across the country!
I’m addicted to the funny little faces that gnomes have and the cute personalities that are always portrayed on television and in movies. That’s why I’m so excited about the upcoming release of Sherlock Gnomes, in theaters March 23!
![](https://modpodgerocksblog.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/SherlockGnomes-Banner.jpg.webp)
Do you remember the film “Gnomeo and Juliet” from a few years ago? The two main characters return in this latest release, this time turning to a legendary detective Sherlock Gnomes for his help after several of their friends and family go missing in London.
Will they be able to track them down? You’ll have take your family to see the movie in theaters and find out!
To celebrate the release of Sherlock Gnomes, I’m thrilled to share this memory game for kids that I created using some of your favorite characters from the movie like Gnomeo, Juliet, Benny, Paris, Nanette, and Sherlock himself!
![Sherlock Gnomes matching game with pieces laid out](https://modpodgerocksblog.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sherlock-Gnomes-Game-03.jpg.webp)
You can create this gnome game as a family – it’s easy enough for kids to craft themselves. I also provide a printable for the memory game with 12 matching pairs! Just follow the instructions below to assemble.
Memory Gnome Game
Gather These Supplies
- Wood pieces, 1 1/2″ – 24
- Sherlock Gnomes Printable Game Pieces (GET THEM HERE)
- Mod Podge Gloss or Matte
- White cardstock, 8 1/2″ x 11 – 2 pieces
- 1 1/2″ circle punch or scissors
- Glass jar
- Multi-surface acrylic paint – red and peach
- Paintbrushes
- Spouncer
![](https://modpodgerocksblog.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/IMG_2462.jpg.webp)
First you’ll want to wash and dry your glass container. Paint the lid with the red multi-surface paint; let dry. Paint a strip around the top of the base of the glass container and let dry. Use the spouncer to create mushroom dots with the peach on top of your lid and let that paint dry completely.
![](https://modpodgerocksblog.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/gnome-pieces.jpg.webp)
Print the provided printable on white cardstock (GET IT HERE) and cut out all of the circles using scissors or a circle punch.
![](https://modpodgerocksblog.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/IMG_2463.jpg.webp)
Place your wood circles down on a crafting surface covered with paper or a mat.
![](https://modpodgerocksblog.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/IMG_2464.jpg.webp)
Add Mod Podge to the back of a paper circle and then to the top of the wood piece.
![](https://modpodgerocksblog.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/IMG_2465.jpg.webp)
Smooth the paper piece directly down on the wood circle. Let dry.
![](https://modpodgerocksblog.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/IMG_2466.jpg.webp)
Flip the wood piece over and add a mushroom piece to the other side the same way – Mod Podge on both surfaces and then smooth.
Repeat with all of the pieces and let dry completely – your memory game for kids is done! The glass container is perfect for storing your kids’ game.
![](https://modpodgerocksblog.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sherlock-Gnomes-Game-02.jpg.webp)
The rules of play for the memory game are very easy. This memory game is made for two players, though one person can play by themselves for time! It’s more fun to play with two 😀
- Place the pieces character side down in a 6 x 4 grid.
- Grab a dice and roll to see who goes first (largest number wins).
- Player one turns two pieces over. If the pieces match, player one takes the pieces off of the board. If the pieces don’t match, player two goes.
- Player two repeats step 3, and player one and two trade off until all of the matches are made.
- The player with the most matches wins!
This kind of game is so fun for a family game night. Spending time with your loved ones goes along with one of themes of Sherlock Gnomes: put your family first and don’t take others for granted!
![Sherlock Gnomes matching game for kids with pieces laid out](https://modpodgerocksblog.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sherlock-Gnomes-Game-03.jpg.webp)
Sherlock Gnomes is a fun movie for the entire family, so check it out!
If you enjoyed this project, I hope you’ll check out these other ideas:
Pat Kichinko
Friday 23rd of March 2018
This game is absolutely adorable! Where did you get your wooden circles??
Amy
Monday 26th of March 2018
Hi Pat! They are from Michaels :D
Laura / Pet Scribbles
Tuesday 20th of March 2018
This is SO adorable! Love your creative mind so much!
linda smith
Monday 19th of March 2018
This is SUCH a cute idea! Pinning now!
Kelly Rowe
Saturday 17th of March 2018
Seriously, soooo cute!! Love all-things gnomes.
Jenna
Thursday 15th of March 2018
I have a thing for gnomes too!! My kiddo is also excited to see this movie and this little craft /game should keep her occupied while waiting for the movie to get in theaters!