We are home, and we are staring at our walls. The walls are looking the same, and it's normal to crave something different. However, what exactly will help express your creativity while beautifying your walls? How about a DIY work of art? I know it can seem overwhelming, but trust me, if I can do it – you can do it.
Sometimes it can me intimidating to commit to painting your rooms – or nailing photos to the walls. So, why not express yourself in any colour you want on a blank canvas. And then you are only committing to one nail/hook on your wall and with a large canvas, it can add that much needed drama to your walls.
Making DIY wall art can also be a lot easier on your wallet too. Instead of springing for that expensive piece you spied in a catalog, you can create an oh-so-similar version for a fraction of the price, and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you made it yourself.
Also, it can be therapeutic. What you may need:
- Large Canvas (can be purchased from Michaels)
- Acrylic paints
- Chalk paints
- Stencils (optional)
- Molding paste
- Painters tape
- Paint brushes in various sizes
- Glaze
- Sanding block
There are hundreds of ideas out there with what you can do with a canvas and some paints (we found lost here) – but the important thing is to just let it go. Let your creativity guide you. And if you feel like you messed up, just paint over it.
My style is mainly abstract, so I first like to stare at the canvas and then I paint it a uniform /neutral colour.
Then I usually some molding paste to parts of the canvas to add texture to the canvas. This will have to be dry before you can move to the next step. Also, you can mix colours with the molding paste to blend the look and colours you are using. After I my canvas is prepped, I like to add one colour at a time and layer it. Using a little bit of water will allow the paint to thin out a bit as well which offers some blending. Once you have your initial layers done, you may want to take a hair dryer to speed up the drying process.
With stencils you can add some highlights to the work – or you can keep the entire piece abstract.
If you want cleaner lines, use painters tape to guide you. That way you can keep colours separate and create a beautiful symmetry. If the colours are brighter and too finished for you – grab a sanding block to dull the piece. It also will offer a more worn look which can add to the personality of the piece. Most of all, have fun. Don't be hard on yourself. It is a one of a kind piece you are working on.
An idea is also to start on small canvases (from the Dollar store) and that way you can practice a little bit. However, as I said, if I can play around with paints – so can you.
Quick tip: When your ready to hang your art, try avoiding hanging yur artwork to high, it can throw off the centre of the entire room. Instead, ensure your artwork is near eye level – typically the center of the art piece should be about 57-60 inches off the ground.
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