Finger Spell Your DIY Name
Learn to finger spell your name in sign language, create a simple DIY finger chart or photo sequence, and practice sharing it with friends.
Step-by-step guide to Finger Spell Your DIY Name
Step 1
Pick the name you want to finger spell and say it out loud.
Step 2
Find a finger-spelling alphabet chart online or in a book so you can copy the handshapes.
Step 3
Count the letters in your name and draw that many boxes in a row on your paper using the ruler.
Step 4
Write one letter of your name inside each box so each box shows a single letter.
Step 5
Look at the chart and draw the matching handshape for each letter inside the same box as that letter.
Step 6
Colour the letters and the handshape drawings to make your chart bright and easy to read.
Step 7
Cut out each box carefully to make a set of finger-spelling cards.
Step 8
Put the cards in order to spell your name from left to right on the table.
Step 9
Practice signing your name by looking at each card and making the same handshapes with your own hands.
Step 10
Teach a friend or family member to finger spell your name by showing them each card and asking them to copy you.
Step 11
Take a photo or make a short note about your finished finger-chart and share your creation on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can I use instead of a ruler or a printed finger‑spelling chart if I can’t find them?
Use the straight edge of a hardcover book or a cereal box to draw even boxes with your pencil, and view or copy a finger‑spelling alphabet chart from a phone, tablet, or library book to draw the matching handshapes.
My handshape drawings look messy or too small inside the boxes—how can I fix that?
Enlarge the chart or draw bigger boxes (using the ruler substitute), lightly trace each handshape with pencil from the finger‑spelling chart, then color and cut out the boxes once you’re happy with the drawings.
How can I adapt this activity for different ages or skill levels?
For younger kids, draw large pre‑made boxes and handshape outlines for them to color and cut, while older kids can add lowercase/uppercase letters, spell longer names or words, and practice signing to a friend before taking the photo to share.
What are some ways to extend or personalize my finished finger‑spelling cards?
Decorate and laminate each cut‑out card, add magnetic tape or a punch with string to make a name banner, and turn the final step into a mini lesson by teaching someone else and posting your photo on DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to Finger Spell Your DIY Name
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Facts about sign language for kids
🤟 American Sign Language (ASL) uses a one-handed manual alphabet, while some other sign languages use two hands.
🖐️ Fingerspelling uses distinct handshapes to spell names and words that don't have a specific sign.
🤝 Learning even a few finger-spelled words or signs helps include Deaf and hard-of-hearing friends and shows respect.
📸 Making a photo sequence or finger chart is a great way to practice — seeing the shapes in order helps memory!
🌍 There are hundreds of different sign languages around the world, so 'sign language' isn't just one single language.
How do I teach my child to finger-spell their name in sign language and make a DIY chart?
What materials do I need to make a DIY finger-spelling chart for my child's name?
What ages is finger-spelling a name suitable for?
What are the benefits and fun variations of finger-spelling your name?
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