This is a really fun project which can use leftover crafting stash. I actually used them for place settings at Christmas but you could use them for any special occasion – birthdays, anniversaries, weddings or any get together. The canvas’ can also be used as stand alone artwork pieces, perhaps to commemorate a departed loved one or the birth of a baby.
Supplies required:
Mini Canvas’ with easels
White Gesso Rice Paper/Napkins Watered down PVA Glue/Decoupage glue Blank Jigsaw Pieces Family photos printed on copier Paper Gold gilding Wax Script Stencil Black metallic Paint Small piece of Sponge Inspirational quote Stamp
Small die-cuts
Pearl mist/diluted metallic paint for misting
Recipe:
Gesso the canvas and leave to dry. Tear the rice paper/napkin using water to give a soft edge. Make sure if you’re using a napkin to separate the layers and use top layer only. When dry adhere to the canvas using the diluted glue. Complete by covering with another layer of glue. Leave to dry.
Dilute the black metallic paint with a little water to make applying through the stencil easier. Place the stencil across areas of the canvas you wish to embellish and dab the paint through the stencil using a sponge. I positioned mine in areas that were blank. Leave to dry.
Place your jigsaw piece over you photo to get the positioning correct and draw around the piece. Cut out your photo and glue to the jigsaw piece. Cover with another layer of glue and set aside to dry.
Dab your finger into your gilding wax dab off onto a Teflon sheet or tissue and run your finger along the edge of the canvas. When the jigsaw piece is dry use the wax again to highlight the edges.
Stamp your quotes onto white card using the black ink pad. Cut out using random freehand shapes. Don’t be too exact. Edge quote with black ink. This helps make the quote pop on the canvas.
Now it’s time to compose your mini artwork. I find it easier to position each individual piece onto the canvas and rearrange until I find a composition I’m happy with. Try to have a piece that is 3D to add extra interest and depth to the finished piece. Then glue or tape everything into position.
Using your mister spray across the whole canvas adding shine and glimmer. Make sure you shake the mister really well to distribute the metallic elements in the bottle before spraying.
Place on easel.
You can embellish with gems, lace or dimensional pastes. The choices are endless.
NOTE – if you don’t have any inspirational quote stamps you can type some up on your PC.
Discover more ideas and inspiration at Hochanda.com