Do you have a blank wall in your home that is begging for some embellishment? Do you have a hallway that is drab and boring? If so, this is the project for you! This project is also suitable to work with school-aged children with little supervision.
Materials:
- Hammer
- Nails
- Empty frames, several in various shapes and sizes
- Mirrors, several in various shapes and sizes
- Acrylic paint, multiple colors that match the existing area
- Sponge or paintbrushes
- Paint palette or tray
- Drop cloth
- Small containers of water
Note: Old frames and mirrors are often sold at tag sales, estate sales, flea markets, and salvage stores. If you purchase one that is slightly damaged, don’t be afraid to purchase the piece and make some minor repairs prior to painting.
Instructions:
- Gather all the frames, some paint, and brushes. Choose to paint all the frames the same color, or paint them all different colors. This decision depends on how much color you want to introduce to the space.
- Gather all of the mirrors and paint their frames. Again, if you choose to paint them all the same color, it all depends on how much color you want to introduce to the space. Consider paining one mirror to match each frame of the same color.
- Hang the frames and mirrors so they cover over the entire blank area. Create an equal balance of shapes, colors, and sizes. Be sure to evenly balance to mirrors in the space, as well.
- Once all the mirrors and frames are hung, fill the frames with your artwork, or your children’s artwork, using thumbtacks. Each time you grow tired of the artwork, simply change it out for something different.
Note: Consider painting all the frames and mirrors the same color to tie them all in together. Consider using the same color as the trim of the space, or a shade darker or lighter than what is on the walls. The choice is yours, but you may have to experiment a bit before making your final decision.
Not only does this project fill the space, it also encourage frequent art making and display. This will help free your inner critic from stifling you because you will have something inspirational to look at in a common space of your home everyday. Encourage your children to have similar displays in their bedrooms or playrooms.
Variations:
This is also a good project for photography buffs. Consider creating candid shots in color or black and white in numerous sizes to fit the frames. Change them out whenever desired. You could also do a mix of both art and photography for a more interesting display, and one that truly depicts your taste and lifestyle.
