Thursday, May 6, 2010

Easy Art for Kid's Rooms


I'm always looking for an inexpensive way to decorate my kids walls. Here's a very cheap way to pull it off and put your creative powers to use.

First, pick up a blank canvas at one of the big box craft stores. They come in all different shapes and sizes. When you shop, be aware that some have a clean looking edge on the sides and others show the staples that fasten the canvas to the frame. You can frame it ($$$) or use ribbon to cover the staples.


Next, I used an accent paint I had left over from painting a tree on my daughter's wall. You can use any coordinating color. You could simply use your trim paint or consider bringing in your child's bed spread or curtains to a paint store. They can easily create a match and mix up a quart for you.


Next, find coordinating paper (I used scrap booking paper) to create frames and other decorative shapes. As I mentioned, I painted a tree on my daughter's wall, so I continued this pattern onto one canvas along with simple squares that will act as frames for photos. The birds and flowers are stickers that I found at a craft store.
You could also add your child's name in large letters...you get the idea. Be creative and have some fun. Don't worry about cutting out your shapes perfectly either. You won't notice the imperfections once it's finished and on the wall.

Finally, glue every thing down using Mod Podge. Be sure to use a matte finish so it doesn't turn out super shiny. Once everything is in place, coat the top with a layer of Mod Podge too. If bubbles pop up under your paper don't stress. They will work themselves out! When your paper is wet you can lift color and it also can rip easily so use a bit of care. You can use mounting tape to place your photos on your canvas once it's dried.

Viola! Easy, cheap, and cute!

5 comments:

Tree said...

Very cool craft! I may have to try this. :)

NorCalMom said...

Great idea! Thanks for sharing.

Laurie said...

Sheesh Jen. You're creativity is awesome!

Parenting in blue jeans said...

Well thankya very much ladies! In my son's nursery I copied some wall art from ummm...think it was Pottery Barn. My version used a canvas, tissue paper, and Mod Podge. It works!

thediaperdiaries said...

Very cool!!