DIY and creativity for home Archives - MyHomeHubbard https://myhubbardhome.com/category/diy-and-creativity-for-home/ Ideas for inspiration and comfort Mon, 17 Feb 2025 14:12:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://myhubbardhome.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/cropped-MyHomeHubbard-32x32.jpg DIY and creativity for home Archives - MyHomeHubbard https://myhubbardhome.com/category/diy-and-creativity-for-home/ 32 32 Wooden art “Silent Night”: Cozy Christmas Decor https://myhubbardhome.com/silent-night-wood-art/ Wed, 04 Dec 2024 16:36:00 +0000 https://myhubbardhome.com/?p=61 Christmas is a time of magic, coziness and warmth, when every corner of the house is filled with an atmosphere…

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Christmas is a time of magic, coziness and warmth, when every corner of the house is filled with an atmosphere of joy and peace. One of the most popular and stylish elements of Christmas decor is wooden art, which brings to the house not only coziness, but also a special sense of warmth and natural beauty. One such element is Silent Night wood art, which is perfect for Christmas decor.

What is “Silent Night” wood art?

“Silent Night” is a scene that is associated with Christmas, depicting a moment of tranquility and magic when the whole family gathers together and the home is quiet and cozy. In wood art, this scene is depicted through carved and painted wooden figures that may depict Bethlehem, the scene of Jesus’ birth or simply a winter landscape with elements of Christmas symbols such as stars, angels, shepherds or reindeer.

The main feature of such decor is the use of natural materials – wood. This gives each piece a unique look and character, and adds natural warmth and coziness to the interior. In addition, “Silent Night” wood art is often used as panels, picture frames or as individual figures that can be arranged around the house or used to decorate the table.

How to create wooden art “Silent Night” with your own hands?

If you want to add unique Christmas decor to your home, creating a wooden panel or Silent Night style figurines is a great idea. Here are a few simple steps that will help you create cozy decor elements with your own hands.

  • Choice of material

To create wooden decor, use quality wood – it can be plywood, softwood or even wooden boards that are easily processed. The main thing is that the wood should be smooth and free of defects.

  • Creating a sketch

Before you start carving, draw a sketch of what you want to create. It could be a scene of Jesus’ birth, shepherds with sheep, or just a winter landscape with trees and snowflakes. You can also add an angel, stars, and other symbols of Christmas. It is important that the pattern matches the style of your home and creates a peaceful and festive atmosphere.

  • Cutting out the figures

Using a jigsaw or a hand-held wood-cutting tool, carefully cut out the pieces. Try to follow the outline of the sketch, and you can leave a small margin to refine the shape after cutting.

  • Coloring

After the figures are cut out, you can start painting them. To create an antique wood effect, use pastel-colored paints or acrylic paints that can be easily applied in several layers. Some parts can be left untreated to preserve the natural grain of the wood.

  • Adding details

For added beauty and accent, use metallic elements (such as copper or gold stars), glass ornaments, or even small Christmas lights. Such details can give your tree or panel an extra sparkle and festive atmosphere.

  • Final touches

Once all the elements are dry, you can attach the figures to a wooden base. This can be a panel or even a picture frame. In order to add volume and depth effect, you can attach the figures at different levels, thus creating a three-dimensional composition.

Where to place the Silent Night wood art?

After you have created your masterpiece, think about where to place it in the house. Here are a few ideas:

  • On the mantelpiece

During the Christmas season, the mantelpiece becomes a great place to place decor. A wooden panel depicting “Silent Night” will look great on a shelf surrounded by Christmas lights and candles.

  • On the holiday table

Small wooden figures, such as angels or shepherds, can be arranged on the holiday table. They will add a cozy touch and make the feast even more atmospheric.

  • On the wall

If you have wall space, you can hang a wooden panel depicting a nativity scene. This will be the center of attention in the room and will create a festive mood.

  • In the corners of the room

Small wooden figures can be placed in the corner of the room or near the windows. They will add warmth and magic to the atmosphere of your home.

Conclusion

Wooden art “Silent Night” is not only a beautiful addition to the Christmas decor, but also an opportunity to create a unique atmosphere of coziness and peace in your home. Made by your own hands, it will remind you of Christmas traditions and give you and your loved ones an atmosphere of warmth and love. Add wooden decor elements to your festive interior and let every corner of your home be filled with magic and holiday atmosphere.

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Wooden Art Cards: An Original Mother’s Day Gift with Your Own Hands https://myhubbardhome.com/wood-art-gift-cards-for-mothers-day-easy-diy-craft/ Sat, 27 Apr 2024 05:33:00 +0000 https://myhubbardhome.com/?p=103 Mother’s Day is a special holiday, when you want to express your love and gratitude to the dearest people. One…

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Mother’s Day is a special holiday, when you want to express your love and gratitude to the dearest people. One of the most touching ways to do this is to create a gift with your own hands. Wooden cards-art is not just a greeting card, but a stylish decoration that can be kept in memory and used in the interior.

For the base it is best to use a light wooden board or plywood. It can be left in its natural state or covered with a thin layer of stain, giving the wood a beautiful shade. To achieve a more vintage effect, you can lightly sand the edges and create a scuffed effect.

You can choose any postcard design – from classic colors to abstract patterns. One of the simplest and most effective options is to use the technique of burning. With the help of a special device you can put beautiful inscriptions, patterns or even a portrait on the surface. If burning is unavailable, you can draw a picture with acrylic paints or use decoupage technique, gluing napkin motifs on the surface.

Additional decorative elements will help to add volume: lace, small wooden figures, dried flowers or even pieces of fabric. They are glued on the card and create a multi-layered effect. You can make a composition of small wooden hearts, laying them out in the form of a bouquet or wreath.

Special attention should be paid to the text. Warm words can be engraved, handwritten or stenciled. If you want something unusual, you can add a mini envelope with a note or hide the message under a small hinged element.

The finishing touch is to treat the surface with varnish. This will help to preserve the work for many years, protecting it from damage. If the postcard will be used as interior decor, you can attach a loop or magnet to the back so that it can be hung on the wall or refrigerator.

Wooden art cards are not only beautiful, but also a heartfelt gift. They convey the warmth of hands and love, invested in their creation, and most importantly – remain in memory, reminding of the most precious moments.

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3 Easy Tips for Creating Beautiful Velvet Pumpkins https://myhubbardhome.com/3-easy-tips-to-creating-beautiful-velvet-pumpkins-2/ Mon, 30 Oct 2023 16:59:00 +0000 https://myhubbardhome.com/?p=64 Fall is a time for cozy decorations, bright colors and warm textures. One of the most popular and stylish elements…

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Fall is a time for cozy decorations, bright colors and warm textures. One of the most popular and stylish elements of fall decor are velvet pumpkins. They add sophistication and coziness to the interior, are perfect for Halloween or Thanksgiving celebrations and can serve as a wonderful decoration for fall evenings. In this article, we will share with you three simple tips for creating beautiful velvet pumpkins with your own hands.

Choosing the material

The first step in creating velvet pumpkins is choosing the right material. Velvet is a fabric with a soft, pleasant to the touch surface, which is ideal for creating fall decorative elements. You can use different types of velvet such as velour, jacquard or flecked velvet to create a pumpkin. The main thing is to make sure that the fabric is dense and holds its shape well.

In addition, it is important to choose colors that will harmonize with your interior. Orange and golden shades remind you of traditional pumpkins, but no less beautiful will look pumpkins in dark green, burgundy, gray or even white tones. You can use solid-colored velvet or choose fabric with interesting textures and patterns to create original and unique pumpkins.

Shape and assemble the pumpkin

After you have chosen the fabric, you need to decide on the shape and assembly. To create a velvet pumpkin, you will need a few simple materials:

  • Velvet fabric;
  • Filler (for example, synthesizer or absorbent cotton);
  • Lace or ribbon for tying it up;
  • A dried twig or decorative pumpkin “loop” for a stem.

Here’s how you can assemble the pumpkin:

  • Cut the fabric into a circle (about 30 cm in diameter for a medium pumpkin).
  • Fold the fabric over the edges and secure with string or ribbon to create a “pouch”.
  • Fill the pouch with filler to give it the shape of a pumpkin.
  • Once the pumpkin is filled, tighten the drawstring at the top and gently spread the fabric to take the shape of a rounded pumpkin.
  • To create the stem, use a dry twig or decorative “loop” – secure it in the center of the top of the pumpkin with hot glue.

This process is quite simple, but the result will be impressive: the velvet pumpkin will look elegant and stylish.

Decorating the pumpkin

Now that your velvet pumpkin is ready, you can add some decorations to make it look even more beautiful and interesting. Here are a few ideas:

  • Gold or copper accents: Use paint or varnish to cover the stem of your pumpkin in gold or copper colors to add a luxurious look to it.
  • Ribbons and Beads: For a more decorative effect, you can add ribbons that match the tone of the pumpkin’s fabric or tie them around the stem. You can also glue small beads or decorative stones around the edges of the pumpkin.
  • Floral elements: For a more romantic effect, add small artificial fall flowers such as leaves, berries, or even small flowers from dried plants.

These simple additions will make your velvet pumpkin even more attractive and unique.

Conclusion

Creating velvet pumpkins is an easy and fun way to add fall flair to your home. With three simple tips – choosing the right material, shaping and assembling, and decorating – you can create beautiful decorative pumpkins that will be a great decoration for your interior. These pumpkins will attract the attention of guests and delight you throughout the fall, adding an atmosphere of warmth and comfort to your home.

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DIY Dollar Store Bee Candles https://myhubbardhome.com/dollar-store-bee-candles-diy-craft/ Sun, 04 Jun 2023 16:17:00 +0000 https://myhubbardhome.com/?p=55 Looking for an easy and affordable DIY project to add charm to your home decor? These Dollar Store Bee Candles…

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Looking for an easy and affordable DIY project to add charm to your home decor? These Dollar Store Bee Candles are the perfect addition to a summer tablescape, an entryway display, or a decorative vignette.

Dollar Store Bee Candles

These charming DIY bee candles are a simple, budget-friendly project that adds a unique touch to any decor. Whether you place them on a dining table, coffee table, or mantel, they bring a lovely summer vibe to your space.

Why Dollar Store Candles?

While these candles aren’t made of beeswax, soy, coconut oil, or essential oils, they’re still a great value. They burn clean, have a long burn time, and don’t cause headaches like some scented candles. Plus, they’re available year-round, making them an easy go-to for home decor projects.

Instead of calling them “cheap candles,” I prefer to say they’re budget-friendly and versatile—and today, I’ll show you a creative way to use them!

How to Make DIY Dollar Store Bee Candles

Supplies:

  • 2 pillar candles – Dollar Store;
  • Yellow and white twine;
  • Black artificial flowers;
  • Yellow acrylic paint;
  • Paintbrush;
  • Bee printout;
  • Scissors;
  • Hot glue gun;
  • Glue or Mod Podge.

Instructions:

Prepare the Candles:

Remove the label and any sticky residue. Tip: Use Goo Gone Remover to get rid of any leftover adhesive.

Wash the glass surface to ensure it’s clean and ready for decorating.

Wrap the Twine:

Start wrapping the yellow and white twine around the top of the candle. Secure the twine with a small dot of hot glue to keep it in place. Continue wrapping until you have a 1-inch border, then glue the end securely.

Add the Bee Graphics:

  • Print out the bee designs on regular paper.
  • Cut out five bees per candle and arrange them randomly.
  • Attach them using Mod Podge or glue, applying just enough to secure them without overcoating.

Decorate with Flowers & Dots:

  • Glue black flowers onto the candle for added texture and charm.
  • Using the back of a paintbrush, dip it in yellow acrylic paint and create small dots around the bees and flowers for a whimsical effect.
  • How to Use Bee Candles in Decor.

These DIY bee candles make a lovely statement piece for summer decor. Here are a few ways to display them:

As part of a bee-themed tablescape (I used three candles for a round table setup). On an entryway table to welcome guests with a warm, seasonal touch. In a vignette alongside other summer-themed decorations. On a long dining table with additional votive candles for an elegant centerpiece.

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Rustic Lighting: Cozy Lighting for the Home https://myhubbardhome.com/rustic-luminaries-2/ Sun, 31 Jan 2021 08:36:00 +0000 https://myhubbardhome.com/?p=106 Rustic style in the interior is a harmony of natural materials, warm colors and coziness. One of the key elements…

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Rustic style in the interior is a harmony of natural materials, warm colors and coziness. One of the key elements of this design is lighting. Rustic lighting fixtures can create a cozy atmosphere in the house, emphasize the naturalness and add character to the space. In this article we will understand what rustic lighting fixtures are, what materials they are made of and how they affect the interior.

Features of rustic lighting

Rustic style is inspired by rustic aesthetics, nature and history. Lighting fixtures in this style are characterized by:

  • Simple but expressive forms. Solid bases, metal or wooden frames are often used.
  • Natural materials. Wood, forged metal, glass and textiles are the basis.
  • Warm light. Rustic lamps most often have a soft glow, creating a comfortable atmosphere.
  • An antique effect. Artificially aged surfaces, scuffs, rust or rough treatment emphasize the rustic charm.

Popular types of rustic lighting fixtures

Rustic chandeliers

Chandeliers are the centerpiece of lighting in a rustic interior. The most popular models are:

  • Wrought iron chandeliers with elements of bronze, copper or iron. They resemble ancient lamps used in castles and manors.
  • Chandeliers with a wooden base. Beams of aged wood, decorated with metal chains, create the effect of a traditional rustic house.
  • Chandeliers in the form of candlesticks. Such models reproduce classic lighting without electricity and look particularly atmospheric.

Pendant lights

They are great for lighting the kitchen, dining room or bar area. Design options:

  • Glass plafonds with metal fittings. A great option for a rustic or vintage interior.
  • Metal lanterns with patina effect. Imitation of old lanterns adds character to the space.
  • Lamps with wicker lampshades. The use of rattan or vines adds warmth and naturalness.

Wall sconces

Wall lights help to create soft lighting and emphasize the coziness of the interior. Popular solutions:

  • Sconces made of wood and metal in the form of lanterns. Reminiscent of antique street lamps.
  • Country style lanterns. Look great in a hallway or country house.
  • Lights in the form of candles. Perfect for a classic rustic interior.

Floor and table lamps

They help to further zone the space and give a cozy feel.

Popular options:

  • Floor lamps with fabric or linen lampshades. Great for the living room or bedroom.
  • Lamps with wooden bases. Look stylish and create a natural atmosphere.
  • Table lamps made of glass with a scuffed effect. A great option for a study or bedroom.

How to choose rustic lighting fixtures for the home?

There are several factors to consider when choosing rustic lighting:

  • Materials. Natural wood, metal with a forging effect, handmade glass or fabric give the fixtures an authentic look.
  • Color palette. Shades of brown, gray, beige, bronze, copper and black fit the style perfectly.
  • Lighting type. Warm yellowish light best conveys the cozy atmosphere of a rustic house.

Conclusion

Rustic lighting fixtures are not just a source of light, but a decorative element that makes the house warm and cozy. They are ideal for country houses, loft, country and chalet style apartments, as well as for everyone who appreciates natural materials and cozy atmosphere. By choosing rustic lighting, you can create a truly harmonious and stylish space that will be a pleasure to be in every day.

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Are You Ready for Spring? https://myhubbardhome.com/lets-usher-in-spring/ Mon, 02 Mar 2020 06:33:00 +0000 https://myhubbardhome.com/?p=40 Waiting for spring to arrive can be challenging, especially if you live in a colder climate. Sometimes, it feels like…

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Waiting for spring to arrive can be challenging, especially if you live in a colder climate. Sometimes, it feels like winter will never end. But there are plenty of ways to welcome the season into your home with simple layers of color and fresh decor touches. Here are ten easy ways to refresh your space and usher in spring effortlessly.

Nests

Nests are a charming way to introduce a natural element into your decor. Whether layered atop feathery greens, placed under a glass cloche, or arranged on a mantel, their simplicity adds a fresh, organic touch. Add a bit of moss and tiny decorative eggs to complete the look.

Birds

Incorporate glass or ironstone bird figurines into your decor. Pair them with shredded craft paper, moss, or even a small nest to enhance their visual appeal. These delicate accents bring an airy, springtime feel to any space.

Moss-Covered Eggs

Moss-coated eggs make beautiful decorative elements, whether arranged in a bowl, tucked into a wreath, or displayed in a twig nest. Their soft texture and natural green hue blend seamlessly with any spring-inspired decor.

Bunnies

Bunnies, tiny chicks, and pastel-colored eggs are synonymous with spring. If you’re short on storage space, opt for smaller figurines and layer them with other seasonal accents. A small iron bunny, for instance, is a subtle yet adorable nod to spring.

Dishes, Vases, and Glassware

You don’t need a collection of seasonal decor to make an impact. A few well-placed items, like a bunny plate or a pastel dish, can bring a festive touch to your home. Stores like Hobby Lobby, Michaels, Joanne’s, and Amazon offer plenty of affordable options.

Table Vignettes or Centerpieces

Gather spring essentials—birds, nests, eggs—and arrange them in a tray for a beautiful vignette. This centerpiece works well on dining tables, coffee tables, entryway consoles, or even inside a hutch.

Front Door Decor

Welcome guests with a charming seasonal display on your front door. A small twig and chicken wire basket filled with moss and a ready-made bouquet is an easy, eye-catching solution. Simply tuck some sheet moss into the wire basket and place a flower posy in your preferred colors for a fresh and inviting look.

Flowering Branches

If you have fruit trees, you can force branches to bloom indoors. Place trimmed branches in water, and within days, you’ll have beautiful blossoms. Alternatively, mix faux and real branches in a tall vase or metal bucket for a similar effect. Adding rocks and moss at the base of a clear glass vase enhances the natural aesthetic.

Pillows

Switching out pillows is one of the easiest ways to refresh your home for spring. Choose designs with seasonal motifs or mix solid and patterned pillows for a vibrant look.

Pictures and Plaques

Decorate your walls, shelves, or hutches with spring-inspired pictures or plaques. You can purchase them or get creative and make your own, like a DIY bird motif print.

Final Touches

By incorporating even just one or two of these simple ideas, you can bring the freshness of spring into your home. Personally, I always include bird nests, tiny eggs, and natural branches. This year, I’m also adding a handmade burlap bird picture!

How will you decorate for spring?

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7 Tips for Creating Stylish Vignettes https://myhubbardhome.com/7-tips-to-designing-vignettes/ Mon, 09 Sep 2019 13:16:00 +0000 https://myhubbardhome.com/?p=33 Vignettes are small compositions that create accents in the interior, add personality and coziness to the house. Properly designed vignettes…

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Vignettes are small compositions that create accents in the interior, add personality and coziness to the house. Properly designed vignettes can revitalize any room, adding style and harmony to it. Here are 7 tips for creating stylish vignettes that will help you make your interior more thoughtful and beautiful.

Determine the theme of the vignette

Each vignette should be linked by a common theme that harmonizes with the interior. It can be minimalism, Scandinavian style, eco-theme or, for example, vintage accents. By defining the theme, you will be able to choose appropriate elements that will look organic and create the desired atmosphere.

Use different textures and materials

To keep your vignette from looking monotonous, it’s important to combine different textures and materials. For example, you can combine wooden elements with metal accents and glass vases with fabric accessories. This will add depth and visual interest to your composition, making it more stylish and versatile.

Work with the height of the elements

An important element in creating stylish vignettes is playing with the height of the objects. Place elements of different heights to create an interesting visual effect. For example, place a tall vase or candle in the center, and place lower objects such as books or small accessories around it. This will help balance the composition and make it more dynamic.

Observe the principle of “less is more”

Although you can use multiple objects in a vignette, it’s important not to overload it. Too many objects create chaos and distractions. Choose only a few key elements that fit together perfectly. Usually 3-5 items are enough to create a harmonious composition. This allows you to maintain balance and not overload the space.

Color palette

Colors are the foundation of any stylish vignette. To achieve harmony, use no more than three primary colors that complement each other. You can choose neutral shades such as white, gray, and beige, or add accents of bright colors to create an interesting contrast. It is important that the colors blend and support the overall atmosphere of the interior.

Add elements of nature

Live plants and flowers are always a great addition to any vignette. A few sprigs of greenery, a small succulent or fresh flowers will bring a fresh and vibrant feel to your composition. They will also add texture and softness, creating a cozy atmosphere in the room.

Play with mirrors and reflections

Using mirrors in vignettes helps create a play of light and space. Small mirrors or reflective surfaces will add depth and increase the visual volume of the composition. You can place a mirror next to other elements so that they reflect in it, creating interesting and stylish effects.

Conclusion

Creating stylish vignettes is not just about decorating your home, but also a way to express your style and personality. With these 7 tips, you can easily transform your interior, adding harmony and elegance to it. Don’t be afraid to experiment with textures, colors and shapes, and soon you will create a vignette that will become a real decoration of your home.

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Rustic Fixtures: Cozy Lighting at Home https://myhubbardhome.com/rustic-luminaries/ Sat, 11 Aug 2018 11:59:00 +0000 https://myhubbardhome.com/?p=49 Rustic light fixtures are the perfect way to add an air of coziness and warmth to your home. They fit…

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Rustic light fixtures are the perfect way to add an air of coziness and warmth to your home. They fit perfectly into country, rustic or rustic style interiors, creating soft and warm lighting. To make such a lamp with your own hands is not only a fascinating activity, but also an opportunity to add individuality to the design of your home. Let’s consider how to create rustic lamps, using available materials.

To begin with, you will need to choose the materials that will be suitable for creating such a lamp. Usually, wood, metal, glass and other natural materials are used for rustic style. One of the easiest options is to use wooden parts, such as branches or bars. You can choose such materials that you can easily find in your surroundings – it can be old wood, boxes, wood scraps or even wooden pallets.

For the base of the light fixture, you can use a wooden bar or planks that can be joined together using screws or glue. If you want to create a pendant light fixture, you can attach a metal chain to the base or use sturdy ropes for hanging. In this way, you will create not only a stylish, but also a functional element of decor.

Decor for a rustic lamp is a key point that will give your piece a finished look. For this purpose, you can use various natural materials such as hemp threads, jute, plaid or striped fabric. You can also add elements in the form of old locks, knobs, decorative screws and nuts that emphasize the rustic style and make the lamp unique. If you want to add a bit of coziness, you can use decorative lamps in retro style or create a candle effect by putting lamps with warm light.

Don’t forget about safety when working with electrical components. Make sure that the wires are properly secured and use the right lamp sockets. You can also add a small lampshade that will soften the light and create an even cozier atmosphere. The lampshade can be made from burlap, fabric or even twigs to emphasize the natural style.

Rustic lamps are a great way to bring a piece of nature into the house and make the interior warmer and more pleasant. Making them with your own hands is not only easy, but also interesting, and the end result will delight you and your loved ones. Such lamps are ideal for evening gatherings with family or friends, creating an atmosphere of coziness and peace.

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Creating a Decoupage Painting on Canvas https://myhubbardhome.com/create-a-decoupage-canvas-picture/ Fri, 20 Jul 2018 06:23:00 +0000 https://myhubbardhome.com/?p=36 For a long time I am going to write about the simplest, but at the same time very effective way…

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For a long time I am going to write about the simplest, but at the same time very effective way to decorate the walls of your home with antique paintings in expensive frames or stylish modern still lifes, landscapes, collages, etc. This method – decoupage on canvas with imitation painting, or imitation decoupage on canvas – I will also tell and show about it.

So, let’s start with the simplest one. In stores for artists sell such things – canvas on cardboard. This is a dense cardboard, on which the canvas is glued, and all this is primed and prepared for painting.

There are different manufacturers, different prices and different sizes, from the smallest (10×15) to the largest (60×60 cm).

Additional preparation of the surface is not required – we just glue the napkin or rice card by the method of file on the canvas, making sure that the texture of the canvas was visible (some recommend to beat the napkin in relief, i.e. canvas, but I just carefully iron the napkin with a brush in the direction of the threads, and that’s it.

We get decoupage with the texture of the canvas, and the eye perceives it as painting on canvas. Two layers of matte varnish perpendicular to each other (in the direction of the threads) – and you can insert it into the frame.

Once again all the steps in order:

  • At the same time choose a canvas on cardboard and a frame for it, make sure that it can be inserted into your frame.
  • Find a napkin of suitable size (take into account that it will still stretch), it is desirable to glue on the entire surface to avoid underpainting. If the napkin is a little smaller than the canvas, and the edges will be visible, then they need to be drawn, and for this purpose it is very important not to cut the napkin, but to cut off!!!! And from all sides, even on the edges (this is what I keep forgetting about)!!!!
  • Glue the napkin, carefully expelling all the bubbles. Dry.

It’s a pity that a regular quarter of the napkin is not stretched as much as necessary, and in the frame 20×20 a little visible ragged edges. I’ll have to do some touch-ups.

  • If necessary, we draw, or just cover with 2 layers of matte varnish.
  • We decorate the frame – this usually takes more time than decorating the canvas itself. How to decorate the frame – read in the next MK.

For additional effect you can apply any thick transparent volumetric gel to some elements with strokes (even before varnishing or between layers). However, try not to get carried away with this gel; I also recommend to look at real oil or acrylic paintings to feel the relief of strokes, then you will be easier to apply the gel realistically. At least on acrylic paintings there is not much relief at all, so I often do without gel.

Napkins with any motifs are suitable for gluing (except for motifs with clear edges – they will have to be added to create a beautiful background), or rice cards, or printouts on thin tracing paper. The thinner the paper, the more the texture of the canvas will be visible.

And try to avoid folds and underdrawings – it is very inconvenient to sand down folds on a relief surface, and underdrawings should be done a little differently than usual in decoupage – more picturesque, boldly, with strokes of accurately selected paint.

What to do if you don’t have a canvas on cardboard at hand? You can glue a dense fabric with clearly defined weaves of threads onto the cardboard:

  • Cut out the fabric with allowances;
  • Lay it on the cardboard, tuck the edges and glue;
  • Priming with something. It is better more dense means that the cardboard from water less deformed (but it in any case you can dry it under the press, then it will level out, or just bend in the opposite direction).

Imitation decoupage on canvas

Another interesting option is to imitate decoupage on canvas. If you have a slightly thicker paper or simply do not have a canvas at hand, you can use this option.

We will need:

  • A surface (this can be the back of a frame made of MDF or even cardboard, or even just the glass from the frame!);
  • Primer or acrylic paint, possibly aerosol (for glass) – read about surface preparation with primers here;
  • Putty without lumps, homogeneous consistency. Old is not very suitable, better fresh;
  • The brush is construction bristles (not art);
  • Motif, glue, varnish, brushes, etc., and the frame itself.

Stages of work:

  1. If our surface is a backdrop of MDF or dense cardboard, no preparation is needed. If it is glass from the frame, we degrease it and cover it with a layer of spray varnish or glass primer.
  2. We mix putty with primer or acrylic construction paint in a proportion of about 1:1. We will get a white composition that holds its shape quite well.
  3. Apply our mixture to the surface with a construction brush in vertical strips, as usual, the finishing stroke is carried out from one edge of the workpiece to the other. Your stripes should look like threads that go in one direction. Drying.

In process:

  1. Apply our mixture perpendicular to the first layer. These are the threads that go across (choose for yourself where you have the weft and where the base Dry.
  2. Our “canvas” is ready – you can glue the motif. And even though the lines are not always even, the picture will still look good.

Why is it important to use construction bristles? Because its pile is not a continuous row of one length, but more sparse, which allows us to leave more relief stripes at a greater distance from each other (unlike art bristles).

Glue the motif – and we get an imitation of painting with decoupage.

It’s just a matter of making a frame for our decoupage on canvas. The idea can be any, and in the next article I will give examples of three frames that are easy to design with your own hands (because our goal now is to decorate the walls quickly and easily, without complicated techniques and painting).

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7 Flowers That Are Easy to Grow from Seeds https://myhubbardhome.com/7-easy-to-grow-flowers-from-seeds/ Wed, 04 Apr 2018 16:07:00 +0000 https://myhubbardhome.com/?p=30 Hi friends, today I will tell you about flowers that grow perfectly in the ground through sowing seeds, bypassing the…

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Hi friends, today I will tell you about flowers that grow perfectly in the ground through sowing seeds, bypassing the seedling stage. I have a few secrets that help me save time in the garden. One of them is planting plants that don’t require seedlings.

Flowers without seedlings

I used to think that to get a beautiful blooming garden, I’d have to nurture and nurture little seedlings on windowsills for months. But how wrong I was! It turns out that there is a huge number of wonderful flowers, the seeds of which can be safely planted directly into the ground. Cultivate without seedlings can be both annual and perennial plants. The only thing I want to note: perennials will please you with their blooms only next year.

Flowers for sowing into the ground should:

  • be cold-resistant (germinate at a temperature of +10 degrees Celsius);
  • have a relatively short period from the development of seedlings to the beginning of the flowering period;
  • withstand a short-term drop in temperature to +1 degree Celsius;

Annuals without seedlings

Among the large number of flowers that can be sown in the open ground, I singled out for myself 7 representatives. 5 of them are annuals.

Delphinium

Decorative plant with pink, white and purple inflorescences of elongated shape. I bought this year good seeds of delphinium, but never planted on seedlings. I will plant immediately in the ground.

Chrysanthemum annual

I love chrysanthemums for their variety! In addition, chrysanthemum – resistant to disease and insects flower. It should be noted that chrysanthemums require a sunny site. Very ornate flowers – will please for a long time.

Asters

Well, how without bright and large flowers of asters in the garden! Asters can be grown through seedlings, but in this case the flowers grow very weak and susceptible to various diseases. Therefore, the best way to grow asters – from seed. Asters are simply beautiful – in the fall they are very useful, because most of the flowers are no longer blooming.

Velvet

Already a month after sprouting, velvets, sown in the ground, begin to bloom. Minimal care and yellow velvets will delight you with their beauty all summer. I use velvets to create flower borders.

Ipomea

This year I want to add to my garden with a wonderful hypomea. It is a curly, fast-growing flower, which is ideal for fences. Ipomea is very unpretentious and requires minimal care.
I am delighted with it – last year I planted it to close the fence. And I got a whole blooming wall – it was very beautiful. She has very spectacular foliage.

Perennials

If we talk about perennials that can be grown without seedlings, then, of course, I could not bypass gypsophila. Gypsophila is the very tenderness. Does not tolerate transplanting, so sow immediately to a permanent place.

Plants that can be planted without seedlings – a real boon for busy gardeners. The main thing is to properly prepare the planting site.
Friends, share, do you grow plants without seedlings? If so, what flowers do you prefer? I will be glad to your comments!

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