Monday, July 27, 2009

Framed Magnet Board

Way cute, way easy! {from http://littlebirdiesecrets.blogspot.com}

We showed you one magnet project
and we have another waiting in the wings, so we thought it was time to give you something on which to stick those magnets! Here's a tutorial for a very easy magnet board.

Magnet Board Tutorial

What you'll need:

*Any picture frame
*Spray paint and newspaper (if you want to paint it--you may like it the way it is!)
*Piece of sheet metal the same size or larger than your frame
*Ruler or measuring tape and marking tool
*Metal snips and gloves (if your sheet metal needs to be cut down)

Okay, let's get started.

This frame was on clearance at Ben Franklin for $4. It was cute, but Stacy wanted a punch of color, so she covered it with a quick coat of red spray paint. No sanding required. Then she measured the dimensions of the inside where the picture would normally go.Next she took a piece of sheet metal, found at a local hardware store, and marked the measurements from the frame on it with a measuring tape and a Sharpie.To trim it to the right size, use heavy metal shears. Or, ask your hardware store to cut it for you (some may do it for free, others for a nominal fee). Don't forget to bring your dimensions with you to the store!Slip the metal into the back of the frame like you would a picture and replace the backing.Uh, is that not the easiest magnet board in America? We know we have some international readers--can you come up with something easier than that? I highly doubt it, but send us a note if you do! This is such a great size because it can be hung on the wall or, if your frame has a stand, it's perfect to stand on a desk. Cover it with pictures or reminders and, of course, with your favorite magnets.Look for frames at garage sales, flea markets, and thrift stores. Restyle it with a coat of paint and your magnet board will be both hip and cheap. Two of the birdies' favorite things!

Monogrammed Art

I LOVE this idea. So cute, for a wedding present, or for myself one day.
From Site: {http://alanandsteph.blogspot.com}

I have this weird fetish - I always want to change things up in our home. Although we are blessed to have an incredible condo, it just isn't all that big, so I don't have the option of making hugely noticeable changes (ex: moving furniture). However, I'm always able to move artwork, shelving, and decorative items.
Just a couple weeks ago I wanted a new art piece for one of our walls but didn't want to spend much money. I went to Michael's with my 40% off coupon and came out with everything I needed to make my own monogrammed art piece. Here's how I did it:

Items needed:
- An inexpensive canvas at an arts and crafts store.
- Wood Letters
- Fun fabric to cover canvas
- Black paint
- Hot glue gun
- Staple Gun

How to:
- Cut fabric to fit tightly across the canvas with some extra to staple to the back
- With staple gun, staple fabric to back wood frame of canvas (remember to pull tightly)
- Paint letters and let dry (only if needed obviously)
- Measure out placement for letters (just to make sure everything is even)
- Hot glue letters to front of canvas

That's it! It was super easy and didn't cost me any more than $15 for the entire thing. I think it looks pretty good too! :)
(Note: this also makes a great wedding or anniversary gift)