DIY Days

On Saturday, I (with a bit of help from hubs) decided to tackle a project I found on Pinterest a few weeks ago. I absolutely love DIY adventures--especially when they involve industrial materials and canvas. What more could you want?! Also, it feels really cool to go in a hardware store and pick out washers as if you're really going to tackle a big plumbing project. No one has to know, kids.

Supplies:

2-pack 16X20 canvas = $9.97
2-pack 8x10 canvas = $7.97
1 can gloss spray paint (in Peekaboo Blue) = $3.87
1 tube Gorilla glue super glue = $2.24
1 box of 100 3/8 inch washers = $4.96
1 box of 100 1/2 inch washers = $7.63
1 box of 100 1/4 inch washers = $3.94

Total cost of project = $40.58 (with plenty of supplies to spare)

The original project suggested a 24x32 canvas but, for our purposes, we needed something a bit smaller.

So, to start, I did something my mother-in-law probably wouldn't like-I spray-painted canvas. She's a very talented art teacher who can do amazing things with some acrylics and an open canvas. I, however, was looking for the quickest option and spray-painting seemed to fit the bill.

We went with a light blue, but the options are endless as far as colors go. I'm planning to do a set for friends with a really bright, modern color. Don't forget, you could totally give this canvas a proper painting with acrylics--the color would likely be much richer and you would have many more options. I simply wanted a quick fix for a busy Saturday.

Next, I had to decide what I wanted on the canvas. Because this art is going over our bed, we thought a monogram might be cool. So, we chose to make a large "p" on the 16x20 canvas and an "e" and "f" on the two smaller ones. Tip: It's a bit difficult to get the washers placed just right on the first try. I sat them all out and played around until I got them how I wanted. My OCD tendencies kicked in a little bit, but please note: the beauty of this project is that anything goes. It's whatever looks good to you. So, for the first letter, we have...

Tada! This is where tip #2 comes into play: Gorilla glue is no joke. After gluing hundreds of washers on the canvas, I essentially had to rip my fingerprints off to rid myself of all Gorilla glue. Not fun, but alas, pain is beauty??

You know me, I couldn't just stop with the "p." I had a little more trouble with the other letters, but the final product was worth it.

More tips:

-This project is NOT a cat-friendly one. Don't even try.
-You will use lots more of the smaller washers, so it might be smart to buy more of those.
-Looking back, I sort of wish I would've done "e & f" or maybe even "e + f." I think a big ampersand could be pretty cool. I have one large canvas left over, so I might even get crazy and do a music note or something. Just a thought!

If you have any questions or want to do your own canvas/washers project, I'm more than happy to let you know more! Just leave a comment below and we'll talk. Also, there is a raging household debate on whether the "f" or the "e" should come first. I'm open to all suggestions (but only if you say the "e"). Happy Monday!!