Turn Your Digital Layouts Into Wall Art

It's way too easy to not do it yourself.  I learned how to make these a couple of years ago, but it's taking me this long to do step by step pictures so you can do it too.


First you want to do your digital layout.  Use whichever program you're comfortable with...it doesn't really matter how it gets done, as long as you love it.


I used CS4 to make these ones....

I was being kind of lazy and always loved this layout by Paislee Press, so I decided to use her quick page and just personalise it.

Get them printed somewhere that does good quality prints...don't cheap out on it.


Paint the edges of your canvas to whatever colour you want that will compliment your print.

Apply a thin layer of mod podge.

Put your print on top and with a soft cloth get any bubbles or bumps out.  I also like to get a clean placemat or towel and turn it upside down and try to flatten it out from the back.

Let it dry thoroughly (face up)....overnight is best.  Don't muck with it or you could get ripples.  When mod podge is applied to the canvas, the moisture causes it to stretch out a bit, but if you let it totally dry, it should tighten back up and your picture should mount on it nicely.  It does take a bit of practice with trial and error to learn how you want it done.


Then apply multiple thin top coats of mod podge (I do about 3), but make sure they totally dry in between coats.  If you don't wait for it to dry you might get crinkles in it.  It has to completely dry after each application of mod podge.  It's also very important you do thin coats.


I like the look of brush strokes so I use a rougher brush to apply it, but you could also just use those sponge ones.  It's a personal preference that you need to play around with to see which look you like best.


I like to make sure the edges are sealed so I do brush mod podge on the side of the canvas where I've painted.  Don't leave it thick like the picture...it will dry ugly if you leave it like that.  You want all coats evenly applied.

And because I gave the canvas to my mom before taking a picture of them, I'm going to have to show you pictures of the ones I did for my cousin.

Your own customized canvas art!


I know it's way too soon to say this, but think about it...great Christmas gift idea!!



This post linked to...

Lemon Tree Creations
House Of Hepworths 
Momnivore's Dilemma 
Lovely Crafty Home 
The Shabby Nest