Paper Letter Art Project

I am ALWAYS on the hunt for inexpensive projects to help keep out ever changing address feeling homey and personal to each family member. This last move has been focused mostly on the boys rooms. A. has graduated to bunk beds from his little toddler bed and it was definitely time to change up his decor. I wanted something that would grow with him as we phased out some of the toddler stuff and moved into the little boy phase. It's a work in progress. Anyway, I decided to give this project a try before trying the technique out on a larger scale and I have to say, I'm quite please with the results. Fast, cheap, and easy to customize, this project can be perfect in almost any room. So here's how to make it. The whole thing was done in about an hour including all the drying in between. Very easy!!

I purchased this cardboard letter from Hobby Lobby for about $2.50 (if you don't have one local I know that there are some tutorials on making your own...;). You could also do this with wooden letters with a flat front face. I then cut my scrapbook paper to fit nicely on the face of the letter. You could do the front of the letter only or any combo of sides. Totally up to you! Make sure that your paper is cut just smaller than your cardboard so that it sticks nicely on the edges.

After I knew that my paper letter was the correct size I painted my letter with a coordinating paint and let it dry. I did two coats but you may find that you need more or less than I did.

After the paint is dry (which happens quickly because the surface is a cardboard) apply Mod Podge generously to the front face of the letter with a sponge brush. Place paper onto the wet Mod Podge and press flat, eliminating any bubbles. I used my fingers for this part... very high tech, I know! Then I applied another layer of Mod Podge on top of the paper. For those who are unfamiliar with this product it goes on white. DONT FREAK OUT! It will dry clear. Fear not. I let that coat dry and then followed it with another coat to make sure the surface was nice and sealed and that I liked the look. I used matte Mod Podge but you can use any of the other finishes of this product depending on your desired final look.

And there you go! SO easy! Now find the perfect place for your new piece and ENJOY!