Magnetki

Magnetki are small magnets commonly used as decorative items, souvenirs, or promotional giveaways. The term is widely used in several Slavic languages and refers to magnets that are designed to be attached to magnetic surfaces such as refrigerators, whiteboards, or filing cabinets. The word combines the root magnet with a diminutive suffix, signifying small size.

Forms and materials vary: many magnetki are made from flexible magnetic sheets or discs with a printed layer on one side and a magnetic backing on the other. They can also be produced as rigid magnets with a decorative surface, often laminated for protection. Printing methods include digital or offset printing, with finishes such as UV coating or lamination to resist wear. Common shapes include rounds, rectangles, and irregular cutouts that fit a photo, logo, or scene.

Sizes typically range from about 2 to 5 centimeters in diameter (or equivalent area for shapes) and thicknesses from 0.4 to 1.4 millimeters for flexible magnets. Stronger magnets based on ferrite or rare-earth materials exist for higher holding power, though most consumer magnetki are designed for everyday household use.

Applications are broad: tourism boards and businesses use magnetki as inexpensive advertising; calendars and photo magnets are popular keepsakes; educators and parents use them as learning aids in classrooms or homes. Collecting magnetki is a common hobby in some regions, with enthusiasts trading magnets featuring city scenes, landmarks, or artwork.

Safety considerations include choking hazards for small children and potential interference with medical devices when using strong magnets. Proper storage away from curious pets and children is advised, and users should follow product safety guidelines.