Animal Collage

This was not recent, nor was it something I found on Pinterest (it was found through Living Locurto) but it is an example of some creativity that keeps me sane so I figure it's applicable. After all, I did say that sometimes I'd post about other creative things I've done, not just Pinterest ideas. :)  This was done in early July and it was quite enjoyable. It's a great, creative way to re-purpose canvas art that just doesn't fit with your home's decor. :) It started with an old canvas painting I found at Value Village a few years ago when we needed some not so pretty decorations for my husband's 70's themed 30th birthday party. Really, what am I going to do with a nasty, outdated painting that doesn't match ANYTHING in our house? I was going to donate it back to VV but then I saw this idea in a Living Locurto newsletter and thought I'd try it. So, you need canvas (old and used or brand new ... although old and used is much cheaper), scrapbooking paper in coordinating patterns/colours, and templates for the animal (or plant or shape) of your choice. Oh, and modge podge and a sponge brush to apply it.

Here's the picture, then I'll explain how I did it. :)

So, you take your base coloured/patterned papers (and I think next time I will use a less busy base pattern at the top). Modge podge the back of it and apply it to the canvas, keeping in mind that you want to go over the edges (so that if you're using a used canvas, you don't have the ugly art showing at the sides). I started with the solid colour at the bottom and the I added the patterned background (overlapping the solid bottom slightly). Next, you cut out your templates (I found the giraffe and elephant on Martha Stewart's site - she's got some pretty awesome creative resources there for free!). I first cut out the giraffe shape, traced it on the back of the scrapbook paper I wanted to use, cut it out of the scrapbook paper, modge podged the back and stuck it on the canvas where I wanted it. Then, using the same template, I cut out the giraffe's spots on another coordinating colour and modge podged them on, one at a time. Next I did the elephant, similar method. Once you have everything modge podged onto the canvas and it's relatively dry, you need to go over the entire picture with modge podge, spreading it evenly. This will ensure that is stays stuck. :) Do this 2 or 3 times, letting it dry between each application. Once the last application is dry, spray it (outside or in a well ventilated area) with clear acrylic sealant spray. This will preserve your creativity much better and give it more of a glossy finish. It will also protect it a bit more from moisture.

Once all that is done, you're art is finished! :) Be sure you choose your colours and patterns wisely. You can see that my background is a bit too busy and, as I said, I'd have chosen a different pattern if I'd do this one over. So, the next time I do this, I will choose more wisely. :)