IKEA DIY Project - Art for Under $50
Who doesn't crave an EASY DIY project now and then, one that doesn't involve paint in your hair, toting a tool belt, or using a miter saw? I seriously can't go there when it comes to DIY projects. I don't mind a hammer and a power drill, but give me a table saw and I'll most likely emerge in stitches or worse, one less finger and a hefty hospital bill. When it comes to DIY, I'll take mine quick and painless please. I imagine that many of you are the same.
DIY projects, especially ones that take only a few hours, are sometimes the break from the normal routine that we need. They're also addicting. Once you see how easy it is to create something pretty cool on a budget, you find yourself roaming store aisles looking for more potential projects. In fact, you start looking at everything differently. You may even begin scaring your friends and family. When your eyes glance over at their empty bottle of soda, they sense you are thinking "craft project". Your dog fears you'll transform his humble house into some swanky loft.
Looking for a quick DIY project that gives you an opportunity to create a work of art for your walls for under $50? I think you'll like this idea, I needed a way to display my Lotta Jansdotter postcards, so I figured I'd grab some IKEA frames, scissors and a roll of duct tape.
A: Purchase frames at IKEA. You can purchase as many, or few, as you'd like. I grabbed the NYTTJA 2-packs in white (5.5 x 7.5", which fits images 4 x 6"). Next, pick up a roll of heavy duty clear duct tape. Please do not purchase the standard gray, for one, it's ugly and two, the color peeks through the cracks. Grab a package of sawtooth picture hangers too, these will secure the art to the wall when you're finished. Don't forget a pair of good scissors.
B: Collect your images, mini-paintings, postcards, cards, anything that you'd like to display.
C: Arrange the frames on a flat soft surface (I used the carpet so I wouldn't scratch them) and then, play with the layout - arrange your images. Then, flip over all the frames. Insert the images and then, apply clear duct tape in straight rows across the back, both vertically and horizonally, completely covering the piece. If you do not completely cover it, the frames risk shifting over time. Please note that once you arrange your frames and place the images inside, you won't be able to change your mind regarding placement since the duct tape will be in the way. Finally, add sawtooth hooks to the top left and top right of your new art and secure on the wall.
Easy, fun and under $50! Oh, and if you'd like to purchase the Lotta Jansdotter postcards that I used in this project, I found a wooden box set (you can hang the lid since it's wood and has a little hook, too.) click here
(images decor8 2006)