Skills Required: Beginner. If you can use a punch and a paintbrush, you can do this project. It’s pretty perfect for beginning Mod Podgers.

You know those paint chips you grab “just to see the colors in better light” and then somehow end up with 20 in your purse? Yeah, me too.

They’re the free souvenir of every home improvement store paint trip – and if you’re anything like me, you probably have a little stack of them tucked in a drawer, waiting for their true calling. Well, today’s the day they go from hardware-store afterthought to modern DIY wall art.

(PS: if you feel weird about taking the current chips, ask them for ones they’re going to throw out for discontinued colors. You can save them from being thrown in the trash!)

This project is super easy, super satisfying, and the kind of craft that makes people say, “Wait—you made that?” It’s colorful, geometric, and surprisingly chic.

Even better? You probably already have everything you need to make it happen, especially if Mod Podge and craft paint are regulars in your crafting rotation.

I already had the Podge and the paint, and my chips were from a painting project where I painted a bunch of different wood panels. I didn’t know what I was going to do with them, but I loved the idea of turning them into something visual and textural.

I actually tried this project on canvas first and it was a total disaster. The canvas was too flexible, and nothing I did made the paint chips stick.

It wasn’t until I tried it on a wood panel that I got the chips to stick properly. And honestly, I love the wood panel. It’s pretty unique!

This project is also one of my favorites because it’s completely customizable. Want bold, primary colors? Go for it. Prefer soft neutrals or ombré vibes? The world is your oyster.

And because you’re working with simple supplies like paint, Mod Podge, and a wood surface, you can size it up or down depending on your space.

I will be honest that if you choose to go for a larger wood panel, I’d try a smaller one first. There’s a trick to the paint chips (which tend to curl). You’ll want to do a test run before committing to something larger.

Are you ready to try the project? I’m excited to hear what you think! Get the printable how to card below:

Print

Paint Sample Wall Art

Learn how to make DIY wall art using paint swatches and a wood canvas! This is very easy and inexpensive home decor.

Course Wall Art

Prep Time 45 minutes minutes

Cook Time 2 hours hours

Dry Time 4 hours hours

Total Time 6 hours hours 45 minutes minutes

Servings 1 piece

Cost $10

Equipment

• 1 Circle punch(es) 1 3/4"
• Paintbrushes
• Brayer

Ingredients

• 1 Wood panel 9 x 12
• Craft paint
• Paint chips
• Mod Podge Satin
• Wax paper

Instructions

• Punch out several circles from the swatches. Arrange the dots on the wood canvas and take a pic using your cell phone (so you can remember your layout). Transfer the circles to a separate surface.
  
• Paint the wood panel with the color of your choice. Let dry and give a second coat. Let dry completely.
  
• Begin to apply the chips to the panel. You're going to apply a medium layer of Mod Podge to the wood, then smooth the chips into the Mod Podge. Brush away the excess. See notes for curling.
  
• Continue applying Mod Podge to the wood and smooth down the chips. Using your fingers helps keep the circles down.
  
• Cover the panel with the chips. As edges of the circles come up, smooth them down with your finger gently.
  
• Once the entire panel is covered with paint chips, smooth anything that's coming up with your finger. Then apply wax paper over the top and roll out with a brayer. Keep doing this until the chips don't come up.
  
• Add a layer of Mod Podge over the top of the paint chips for an even finish and let dry completely before hanging.
  

Notes

Step 1: the number of chips you use will depend on the canvas and size punch you use, but mine used 48.

Step 3: Paint chips tend to curl when an acrylic product is applied. It helps to start out by bending them gently towards the panel so that they’re easier to smooth down.

What do you think about this paint swatch art? Would you make it? Let me know in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out these other ideas:

Decoupage Napkins on Canvas • DIY Bow Holder • DIY Cork Boards • DIY Photo Mat • DIY Pressed Flowers • DIY Wall Decor • Doorbell Box Cover • Dried Flowers on Glass • Fabric Covered Books • Ice Cream Stick Wall Hanging • Magazine Collage • Photo Wall Collage • Wood Welcome Sign

The post DIY Paint Chip Wall Art for Bold and Budget-Friendly Decor appeared first on Mod Podge Rocks.

Skills Required: None. Kids around 3 – 4 years and older can make this project, as they’ll need to use scissors. The

It all started when I started collecting yogurt lids. I went through a serious phase and was buying the large containers – the 32 ouncers (Chobani, specifically).

I noticed when I was done with the yogurt that the containers were pretty solid . . . so like I good crafter, I washed them out and set them aside for the “right time.” I knew a craft idea would strike.

And sure enough, it did.

Are you looking for a fun, colorful, and eco-friendly craft to keep the kids entertained? These DIY suncatchers – made with recycled plastic lids and tissue paper – are the perfect project!

Not only are they simple to make, but they also bring a pop of cheerful color to any window – and they’re a great way to teach children about reusing materials in creative ways.

We love projects that are easy enough for little hands but still result in something beautiful, and this one checks all the boxes.

Plus no need for glass or fancy materials. These suncatchers are made of totally kid-safe supplies, making them ideal for preschoolers or elementary-aged children who love to craft.

What I really love about this activity is its flexibility. You can keep it super simple for younger kids or get a little more creative by cutting shapes, layering colors, or adding glitter and embellishments.

It’s the kind of project that encourages experimentation, and it’s always fun to see how each suncatcher turns out differently. No two are exactly alike!

I used it as a stash buster, because I always have excess tissue paper in a ton of colors.

Are you ready to get started? The only thing you need to do before you jump in is to wash the lids and dry them. Then you’re good to go.

Get the printable how to card below:

Print

Easy Suncatcher Craft

Learn how to make the easiest, most inexpensive kids craft with recycled lids! These sun catchers will be a favorite spring or summer project.

Course Crafts Projects for Kids

Cook Time 1 hour hour

Dry Time 1 hour hour

Total Time 2 hours hours

Servings 3 suncatchers

Cost $1

Equipment

• Scissors
• Paintbrushes

Ingredients

• 3 Plastic lids
• 8 sheets Tissue paper various colors
• 1 bottle Mod Podge Gloss
• 1 roll Twine

Instructions

• Poke a hole in the top of each lid using an awl, scissors, or a nail and hammer. This step should be done by an adult.
  
• Cut the tissue paper into various sizes and shapes. I used many different colors and cut them into triangle shapes. I encourage you to experiment!
  
• Apply a layer of Mod Podge to the inside of the lid in a small area.
  
• Apply several pieces of tissue paper and brush over the top.
  
• Continue applying Mod Podge and tissue paper, overlapping the pieces to create various color combinations. Continue applying until the entire lid is covered.
  
• Let the tissue paper and lid dry.
  
• Trim around the edges with a pair of scissors to remove the excess tissue.
  
• Cut a length of twine and thread through the hole at the top of the lid to display. Repeat with remaining lids.
  

Notes

Step 5 – if you are using inexpensive tissue, be careful how many times you brush over it with the Mod Podge. Some tissue papers start releasing the dye if they get too wet with acrylic products. You don’t want to continue brushing and brushing them or all the colors will start mixing.

Would you try this project? Let me know in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out these other ideas:

• Crafts for Kids at Home: Fun Ideas Using Supplies You Have!
• Decoupage a Cardboard Box with Mod Podge
• DIY Reusable Gift Boxes Turn Trash Into Treasures
• Make a Cozy Mason Jar Night Light with This 3-Step DIY

The post Kid-Friendly DIY Suncatchers Using Recycled Supplies appeared first on Mod Podge Rocks.

Skills Required: None. You don’t need to be an artist to make these adorable rocks. You’ll be painting, using paint markers, and gluing (adult supervised). This is a great project for beginners and fun for all ages!

Are you ready to dive into one of the cutest rock painting trends around? Today I’m sharing my tutorial for cactus painted rocks – the kind that won’t prick your fingers. However, they will make you smile.

I might not be a hot weather person (I live in the PNW), but I really love cacti and succulents in decor. I can’t explain why – they’re just very unique looking.

Plus what other plant protects itself with spikes? I feel like that sometimes. Soft on the inside, bristle-y on the outside. I think we can all relate. Right?

Whether you’re decorating your garden, creating fun home decor, or just looking for a relaxing craft, these little succulents are the perfect way to enjoy painting stones.

This is a fun craft idea for both kids and adults. Being absolutely honest, I had *the best* time painting and making this garden. It checks all the boxes, without being creatively stressful. And the result is . . . just so dang visually pleasing!

Another benefit of this project is the mindfulness that comes along with it. You get to be out in nature while selecting the stones . . . and the painting portion is very relaxing and methodical. Like outside gardening in the dirt, there’s a peace to creating this rock garden.

And don’t worry if you make a mistake – these rocks are very forgiving. You can always repaint and try again, or just call it a “funky cactus” and roll with it. That’s part of the charm!

Before we jump into the tutorial, let’s go over a few things you need to know when starting out:

What kind of rocks should I use for cactus painting?

Regular cacti come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so that is what you’ll want to look for in your rocks. I tried to choose smooth stones that were somewhat flat for my largest cacti.

As you get toward the front of your garden, you can choose shorter, wider stones. That is what I did. So flat and tall towards the back, and shorter and thicker toward the front.

It always helps to look up some pictures of cacti online to inspire you!

What kind of paint is best for cactus rocks?

You’ll want to use an acrylic paint that’s durable and vibrant. I recommend FolkArt Multi-Surface or Apple Barrel Multi-Surface paints – they’re both great for beginners and hold up well over time.

Honestly I just used what I had in my stash. This is a great stash busting project when it comes to paint. I have *a lot* of bottles of paint with just a little bit left, so I just grabbed a bunch of greens.

The paint finish doesn’t matter because you’ll be sealing with Mod Podge at the end. The Mod Podge will even out the finish.

Ready to get started with your own mini rock garden? I can’t wait to show you how fun this project is! Here’s the printable tutorial:

Print

Cactus Rock Art

Learn how to paint the cutest cactus garden and then seal it with Mod Podge! Plus you'll find tips for success.

Course Craft Ideas

Cook Time 4 hours hours

Dry Time 12 hours hours

Total Time 16 hours hours

Servings 1 project

Cost $5

Equipment

• Paintbrush(es)

Ingredients

• 10-12 Rocks various sizes, shapes, and height
• 4 Pebbles small, for flowers on the cacti. These are optional
• 4-6 bottles Craft paint I used greens and pinks I already had
• 1 bottle Mod Podge Satin
• 4 Paint pens pink, green, white
• 1 Terra cotta pot
• 1 Terra cotta saucer
• 1 bottle Decorative sand white
• 1 bottle Weldbond Multi-Surface Adhesive or other glue for stone/rock
• 1 Wood clothespins
• Painter’s tape

Instructions

• Place your pot on your surface and start filling it. I used dirt with some stones on top that I had left over from gardening to fill my pot. At the very top, you should use dirt (or something that can hold the decorative sand). Once your pot is filled, place the rocks you’ve collected in an initial layout and take a picture with your phone. You’ll want to stagger the rocks like you would people in a family photo: tallest in the back, working down with the smallest towards the front. This might not be your final layout, but you want an idea to start.
  
• Once you’ve got your layout photographed, begin painting the rocks. I used six different shades of green in total. I tried to paint rocks that were next to each other in my layout with different shades of green.
  
• Continue painting the rocks until you have the proper coverage, and let them dry completely.
  
• Working one rock at a time, add "cactus accents" to each rock with paint pens. I used a combination of Xs, Vs asterisks, polka dots, and thick/thin lines. I used white, light green, and dark green paint pens.

  You can use my photos for inspiration – it's the combinations and colors that make your cacti. Use variety and I promise you'll be happy.
  
• Paint all of the rocks with Mod Podge. Let dry, paint a second layer, and let dry again.
  
• At this time, you can choose the small pebbles you'd like to use for your cacti's "flowers." I chose to do only four pebbles and then painted them pink using a variety of shades. This will likely require several layers. Let dry. And some paint pen accents and let dry.
  
• Use the stone glue to attach the flowers to the the tops of the rocks of your choice. For mine, I used painter's tape to keep the pebble in place on top of the rock. Then I used a small container to keep them upright while drying. You'll need to let them dry for several hours. Once dry, carefully remove the tape.
  
• You're ready to set up your garden. Pour a layer of decorative sand into top of the pot and smooth out.
  
• Split a clothespin and insert half of it into the dirt to stabilize your largest stone at the back. I didn't glue the stone to the clothespin. Once I nested the large rock into the sand and rested it against the clothespin, it stayed there by itself.
  
• Add the remaining stones and brush off any sand with a dry paint brush. At this time you can add stone cacti to fill in any areas you desire. You can even paint more to fill in, as I did.
  

Notes

Step 1: you can also use sand or other filler from a garden shop. Whatever you use should be able to support the rocks – which is why I used dirt, even though I don’t need it.

Step 2: don’t be afraid to mix shades of green! In nature, no two shades are exactly alike, so take advantage of that here.

Step 4: play around with your design. If you decide you want to change it, you can paint over the paint markers at any time. Let dry and start over.

If you enjoyed this project, I’d love to hear that in the comments! I hope your garden gave you as much pleasure making it as mine did. Also check out these other posts:

• Summer Crafts for Kids: 50 Quick & Easy Ideas!
• Toothpick Cactus Craft for Kids
• Easy Painted Rocks That Are Fun to Make!
• DIY Marbled Rocks: Create Gorgeous Swirled Designs
• How to Mod Podge on Rocks and Make Them Pretty
• Rock Mushrooms Are a Cute Spring Craft

The post Cactus Painted Rocks That Look Adorably Real appeared first on Mod Podge Rocks.

Skills Required: Beginner. You’ll use the paper napkin decoupage technique (iron on method) with Mod Podge, which helps prevent wrinkles. You’ll also be painting.

There is a holiday between Valentine’s Day and Easter that we forget a lot – let’s be honest. None of us wants to admit it, but I think you know exactly what I’m talking about.

This year, however, I’ve decided to make a few projects for St. Patrick’s Day, and my trip started at the dollar store. I’ve been really feeling the Sparkle Mod Podge this year and knew that I wanted to incorporate that as well.

When I was at Dollar Tree I spotted the wood shamrocks they had available, and I knew that’s what I wanted to decorate. With cute napkins, of course.

It was actually very easy to remove the wood shapes from the front using a scraper, which gives you options in terms of how you decorate with the napkins.

This shamrock decor is really easy to make and packs a punch with the glitter, and I think you’re really going to enjoy making these!

Get the printable how to below:

Print

DIY Shamrock Decor

Decorate a wood shamrock from the dollar store using paint, Mod Podge, and napkins.

Course Holiday Crafts

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 1 hour hour

Dry Time 2 hours hours

Total Time 3 hours hours 10 minutes minutes

Servings 1 wall hanging

Cost $2

Equipment

• Paint scraper or similar blade
• Mini craft iron
• Paintbrush(es)
• Scissors
• Parchment paper
• Emery board

Ingredients

• 1 Wood shamrock
• St. Patrick's Day napkin
• Mod Podge Gloss
• Mod Podge Sparkle
• Acrylic paint white and green
• Ribbon for hanging
• Craft glue

Instructions

• If you can, use a thin blade to remove any wood shapes on the front of your shamrock – mine had three wood hearts. It was easy to slide a scraper under them and pop the hearts off gently.
  
• Paint the shamrock with the green paint. Paint the back if desired – let dry completely.
  
• Paint the wood shapes with white paint and let dry.
  
• Paint the wood shapes with Mod Podge and let dry. Paint a second coat and let dry.
  
• Separate the St. Patrick's Day napkin from the sheer white layer. There could be one or two depending on your napkin.
  
• Using three different parts of the napkin, iron the napkin down onto the wood hearts. Place a piece of parchment paper on top of the napkin, and run the craft iron across the top several times (mine was on high heat). While you are doing this, the Mod Podge is melting below the napkin, and the napkin is adhering. Keep going until the napkin is fully adhered, including the edges.
  
• Once the napkins/shapes are cool, use an emery board to gently remove the napkin from the edges by sanding at an angle.
  
• Apply craft glue to the backs of the wood shapes and press them back onto the shamrock. Let dry.
  
• Seal the entire shamrock with Sparkle Mod Podge, including both the napkin and painted areas.
  
• To finish, add a ribbon to the shamrock to hang. Tie several knots on both sides so the wood doesn't slip off the ribbon.
  

If you enjoyed this project, let me know in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out these other projects that use napkins:

• Wood Slice Coasters (with Napkins and Resin)
• DIY Wood Welcome Sign with Dollar Tree Supplies
• 4th of July Anchor Sign with Dollar Tree Wood
• Sparkly Nautical 4th of July Wall Decor on a Budget
• Hello Summer Wood Sign with Rainbow Flair
• DIY Summer Door Hanger to Brighten Your Entryway

The post DIY Shamrock Decor Using Dollar Tree Supplies appeared first on Mod Podge Rocks.

So . . . who here likes garden gnomes? Raise your hand!! Me mee meee! Am I the only one raising my hand? Gnomes are so fun and remind me of spring – as do birdhouses.

So to celebrate, I created a birdhouse for some of my family members with spring colors and a happy gnome. You’ll need a birdhouse to start, and the rest is fun.

This project goes well with the fairy garden and painted rocks I’ve also done. You’ve got lots to make for the out-of-doors this year, so you’d better get crackin’!

DIY Gnome Bird House

Gather These Supplies

• Wood birdhouse
• FolkArt Outdoor acrylic paint – Burnt Umber, Fresh Foliage, Pure Orange
• Mod Podge Outdoor
• Woodland themed scrapbook paper
• Martha Stewart Gnome and Woodland stickers
• Martha Stewart Log Alphabet stickers
• Cardstock – yellow, brown, orange
• Craft knife
• Ruler
• Paintbrush

Paint the Birdhouse

Paint your birdhouse with the FolkArt colors. I used Fresh Foliage for the sides, Burnt Umber for the roof and Pure Orange for the perch.

This Outdoor paint is self-sealing and really durable, so you are good to put it outside. (PS – I just did the edges of the sides where I would be covering with paper).

Cut the Papers to Fit

While waiting for that to dry, I cut the papers to fit my birdhouse. I used one design around three sides, and another (woodgrain) design on the roof.

It takes a minute, but it’s really about measuring and cutting carefully to get the exact fit – so it’s not hard, just time consuming.

At this time I also used my Sizzix Big Shot to cut the mushroom shapes. You don’t have to do that though – you can draw and cut by hand just as easily.

Apply Paper to Birdhouse with Mod Podge

Paint a medium layer of Outdoor Mod Podge on one side of the birdhouse.

Adhere the (nicely) trimmed paper and smooth thoroughly. Let it dry for 15 – 20 minutes and repeat on all sides.

Seal Your Project to Finish

Once dry, paint a coat of Outdoor Mod Podge over the whole birdhouse. Let dry and repeat.

I attached all of the embellishments with craft glue, then gave the entire birdhouse a third coat of Outdoor Mod Podge (including over the embellishments).

Let dry completely before hanging outside.

To finish and make sure it’s extra durable, add an Enamel outdoor sealer (this is optional, but important with intense UV exposure). Now you can enjoy your happy gnome birdhouse.

If you enjoyed this outdoor project, I’d love for you to check out these other ideas:

Beanbag Toss • Birdhouse for Kids • Clay Pot Gnomes • Clay Pot Lighthouse • Clay Pot Mushrooms • Garden Markers • Mod Podge Terra Cotta • Painted Mailbox • Rock Mushrooms • Spoon Plant Markers

The post DIY Gnome Birdhouse That Will Add Magic to Your Garden appeared first on Mod Podge Rocks.

When I was little, we didn’t craft for Easter that much. I guess it wasn’t “a thing” back then? I don’t know – but I feel like I was completely deprived of pom poms and pastel colored tissue paper!

I’m just kidding actually . . . but really, I didn’t do a lot of Easter crafts for kids when I was little. The focus was mostly on the baskets and the candy (not the true meaning but we were little).

Maybe I made a bunny with cotton balls and glue or something like that. The simple decoupage project I’m sharing with you today takes the basic cotton ball bunny up a notch!

If you are looking for a fun craft that works for Easter and beyond, this bunny canvas is for you.

Grab your kids’ craft supplies – a little bit of tissue, craft paint, Mod Podge . .   and you’ll get to use those pom poms I was deprived of too. Do you feel sorry for me yet?

If you’re ready to jump in, learn how to make it below!

Tissue Paper Bunny Canvas

You won’t want to do anything too complicated. It needs to be rather simple and large for the tissue paper to work in making the shape.

Cut out the bunny silhouette and trace around the edge with a pencil, directly on top of the painted canvas.

Pour some Mod Podge out onto a palette or piece of paper and dip your tissue paper/pencil into the Mod Podge.

Push the tissue paper down onto the canvas within the boundaries of the bunny silhouette. Pull up the pencil and it should leave the tissue paper behind.

Keep adding tissue paper in the same way until the entire bunny silhouette is filled in. You’ll see if there are any spaces that need to be filled in when you stand back a little.

Let dry completely before displaying! I’m sorry, I can’t help but love the size of his cute tail. I think it’s the largest pom pom I’ve seen.

Now hang up your tissue paper bunny! I’ll admit, this project made me excited . . . because I’m wondering what other silhouette art I can make with tissue. Let me know what you think in the comments!

What do you think about this idea? Let me know in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out these related projects:

• Easter Mason Jars that Look Like Bunnies
• Painted Easter Rocks for Your Decor
• Decoupage Easter Eggs for the Best Holiday Ever
• Easy Easter Crafts You Can Make in an Hour

The post DIY Tissue Paper Bunny on Canvas (Perfect for Kids!) appeared first on Mod Podge Rocks.

If you’re an adult coloring enthusiast (or just have a stash of finished pages with nowhere to put them), this DIY name plaque is the perfect way to turn your artwork into something both beautiful and functional!

Instead of leaving those vibrant, hand-colored designs hidden in a book, why not showcase them as personalized wall decor?

This project is a creative and easy way to customize a name or word using wood letters, Mod Podge, and your favorite coloring pages. The result? A one-of-a-kind piece that blends relaxation with crafty magic!

Whether you’re making one for yourself, a child’s room, or as a thoughtful handmade gift, this project lets you celebrate both your creativity and love for color.

The best part? You get to enjoy the relaxing process of coloring and craft something totally unique at the same time.

Plus, with so many coloring books and letter styles available, the possibilities are endless. Ready to turn your coloring pages into decor? Let’s get started!

Print

DIY Wooden Name Plaque

Use wood letters and coloring pages to make a cute name plaque! Perfect for wall art.

Course Wall Art

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 2 hours hours

Dry Time 2 hours hours

Total Time 4 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Servings 1 plaque

Cost $15

Equipment

• Paintbrush(es)
• Scissors
• Craft knife
• Brayer optional
• Copier optional

Ingredients

• Weathered wood plaque
• Wood letters spelling the name of your choice
• Coloring book
• Colored pencils
• Mod Podge Hard Coat
• Craft glue

Instructions

• Grab wood letters in the name or initials of your choice. My name is short and sweet! You'll need to choose a plaque that fits the name based on the length.
  
• Begin coloring. You can color the entire page or just enough to cover one of your wood letters. Now – at this point, you have two options. You can color in additional pages and have different designs on your letters, or you can make color copies of the page. I’ll leave that up to you!
  
• Trim the design down around the colored area with your scissors.
  
• Start with one letter at a time. Flip the coloring page over and place a thin layer on the back.
  
• Place a thin layer of Mod Podge on the front of the letter and place down onto the back of the coloring page.
  
• Turn the letter over and smooth. It’s optional to use a brayer, but I love this one! Let your letter dry for 15 – 20 minutes.
  
• Trim off the paper carefully using a craft knife. Repeat with the remaining letters.
  
• Coat the tops of your letters with Mod Podge and let dry. Finish by gluing the letters to the wood plaque, in order. Let dry completely before hanging.
  

Video

Let me know what you think of this project in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out these other wall art ideas:

Comic Wall Art • Decorative Letters • Decoupage Napkins on Canvas • DIY Love Canvas • Fabric Canvas Art • Image to Canvas • Instagram Mini Canvases • Junk Mail Art • Magazine Collage • Map Canvas Art • Paint Chip Art • Paint Swatch Art • Photo Booth Canvas • Photo Transfer to Canvas • Photo Wall Collage • Plastic Animal Canvases • Poster on Canvas • Wood Plaque Crafts

The post Personalized DIY Name Plaque for Bedrooms, Nurseries, and More appeared first on Mod Podge Rocks.

I had a friend that loved to collect vintage kitchen tools, and her collection was super cool. She didn’t want to use them, which I understood, because they were vintage and also they might have fallen apart in her cupcake batter.

Man Podger David came up with a way to display antique kitchen tools and I need to share it with my friend . . . I love this vintage shadow box. Hang it on the wall or prop it on the counter, either way it looks great with farmhouse decor. I’ll let David tell you how it’s made.

OK, my grandmother (dad’s mom) was one of the most awesome women ever – and not much of a cook. But she LOVED donuts! My mother is equally terrific and a great cook. And she makes delicious, homemade donuts. The two of them got along famously needless to say.

When my grandmother passed away I ended up (I really have no idea how) with some odds and ends from her kitchen that have been sitting around in a “I-don’t-know-what-to-do-with-this-but-I-can’t-throw-it-away” box in my garage. Do you have one of those?

How to Display Antique Kitchen Utensils

Anyway, it dawned on me that I could make a little celebration of both of them their friendship and their love of donuts using a shadowbox, Mod Podge and a blown up recipe card. It was incredibly easy!

Gather These Supplies

• Shadow box (which I really should have cleaned before I photographed it. Sheesh!)
• Matte Mod Podge and foam brush
• Vintage kitchen utensils
• Small pieces of scrap wood to use as spacers – painted white
• Hot glue gun
• Spray paint

I decided to recreate my mom’s famous donut recipe as a background. You could easily take an old recipe card to Kinkos and have them blow it up for you.

I created my own using a great, free font called Octin Vintage (available for free download from DaFont.com), sized it to fit the back of the shadow box and printed it out.

I spread Mod Podge on the backer board that came with the shadow box and laid the recipe card graphic down smoothing out the wrinkles (although a few wrinkles seemed OK to me on this project) and set it aside to dry.

I also gave the vintage shadow box itself a quick coat of antique white spray paint.

I wanted the utensils to stand out a bit from the background – hence the small pieces of scrap wood. I painted them white so they would blend a little and then I used a glue gun to glue the scrap wood to the back of each utensil.

When the recipe card background had dried I trimmed the edges and I gave it a sealing coat of Mod Podge for a little extra shine.

After playing around with what I wanted for the arrangement I hot glued the utensils into place and re-assembled the shadow box. And “BAM,” a tribute to my donut loving forebears.

I left the glass out of the vintage shadow box for these pictures because all I was getting was a reflection of me taking a picture. What do you think? I’d love to know in the comments!

If you’d like to see some of my other projects, here are a few I think you might enjoy:

• DIY Kitchen Cabinet Hardware with Mod Podge
• DIY Bookends Made from Vintage Rolling Pins
• DIY Coffee Bar Sign with Farmhouse Style
• DIY Recipe Holder Looks Great in Your Kitchen

The post How to Display Vintage Kitchen Utensils in a Shadowbox appeared first on Mod Podge Rocks.

Skills Required: None. You’ll be using a glue gun to make these rings – you don’t need any prior crafting skills for this jewelry project.

Hey there, fellow fashionistas and crafty souls! It’s Holly from Club Crafted, back with a dazzling DIY that’s going to stick with you – quite literally!

It’s time to talk about my latest obsession: hot glue jewelry. Yes, you read that right.

Who knew that the hot glue gun, usually deep in the drawers of craft rooms, could be the star of a high-fashion jewelry project?

Imagine rings so eye-catching and glittery, they look like they belong in a treasure chest rather than on your hand.

This fashion craft is not just a project; it’s a statement – a testament to the power of creativity (and a little bit of glue).

And here’s the kicker: no one will guess that these stunning pieces are crafted from hot glue. That’s right, we’re turning this everyday adhesive into the stuff of fashion legend. It’ll be our stylish secret.

(Get ready to expand your hot glue horizons with a tutorial for DIY hair pins too!)

Now, I know what you’re thinking: ‘Giant gem rings? Aren’t those a bit much?’ But hear me out. I gifted a bunch to my niece, and let me tell you, she was over the moon!

The blue one practically became a permanent fixture on her hand. These rings are perfect for jazzing up your holiday outfits, adding pizzazz to party attire, or simply bringing some everyday sparkle to your life.

Best of all, making these hot glue rings is as easy as it is fun. It’s the kind of craft that brings out the kid in you, playing with colors and molds, and ending up with something surprisingly chic.

They should dry quickly, and they’re ready to use! You can certainly do this with any silicone mold, and the hot glue hold up very well and feel lightweight, so it’s perfect for making rings and similar jewelry.

Scroll down to discover how to make your very own hot glue rings – a craft so fun and fabulous, you’ll be looking for excuses to wear them!

Print

Make Rings with Hot Glue

Craft stunning hot glue rings that look like gems. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just adding some sparkle to your outfit – they're super simple to create!

Course Jewelry Crafts

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes minutes

Cool Time 1 hour hour

Total Time 1 hour hour 50 minutes minutes

Servings 3 rings

Cost $5

Equipment

• Silicone mold(s)
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks
• Scissors

Ingredients

• White glue sticks
• Ring blanks
• E-6000 optional

Instructions

• Heat up the hot glue gun and load the desired glue stick. Slowly use the gun to fill a gem mold with layers of glue. Make sure to fill the glue to the top of the mold in each crevice and repeat.
  
• Once the glue has dried and cooled to the touch, carefully remove the shapes from the mold. They should remove easily. Trim any glue strings if necessary.
• Use the hot glue gun to attach the ring blanks to the flat bottom of the gems. For a stronger bond, use E-6000. Let cool/dry.
• Paint the gems as desired! Use a combination of paint and glitter to make the gem rings sparkle. Paint a layer of color and sprinkle glitter on top. Let dry and repeat if necessary.
  

Notes

Step 1: I find that tapping the mold on the countertop after filling a couple layers helps the glue settle to that every crevice is filled.

Step 3: You can use hot glue to attach the gem to the ring base, but I recommend jewelry glue or E-6000 for longer lasting results.

Let me know what you think of this project in the comments! Want to get ideas for some other Mod Podge jewelry crafts? Check out these other posts:

• Make Jewelry with Your Hot Glue Gun
• Shrinky Dink Jewelry: Necklace and Earrings
• Decoupage Jewelry: 20+ Easy Projects
• How to Make Bangle Bracelets

The post DIY Hot Glue Rings That Sparkle with Paint and Glitter appeared first on Mod Podge Rocks.

Skills Required: Beginner. You’ll be spray painting and applying Mod Podge to the inside of the mailbox. I have a how-to at the bottom of this close that gives tips for painting.

You know that feeling when you drive up to your house and something just feels off? Maybe it’s the bland mailbox staring at you like a lost puppy. Well, that’s exactly how I felt when I moved into my new home.

Sure, it had a sturdy post and a perfectly functional mailbox – but it had zero personality. And if there’s one thing I love, it’s making everything in my space feel like “me.”

So, what’s a crafty person to do? Give that mailbox a glow-up, of course! I wanted something that matched my beachy, coastal vibe, so I grabbed a can of outdoor spray paint in the most perfect shade: Nautical Blue.

I mean, the name alone told me it was meant to be! But after that first coat dried, I stepped back and thought… it still needs something extra.

That’s when inspiration struck. What if I lined the inside with decorative paper? Game changer. I ran to the craft store, grabbed some Outdoor Mod Podge, and got to work. Suddenly, my little mailbox went from “just painted” to full-on custom and fabulous.

And this project is more than just cute. It’s actually useful. Now when I give directions, I can just say, “Look for the bright, beachy mailbox!” No more “third dirt road on the left past the tree that used to have a tire swing.”

Plus, wouldn’t this make the perfect housewarming gift? Personalize it with someone’s favorite colors or themes, and boom – best gift ever. Ask first . . . of course. Just in case they are boring and like plain mailboxes

If your mailbox needs a little personality, this DIY is for you. Get the full tutorial below and let’s make getting the mail fun again!

Print

Paint a Mailbox

Learn how to paint a mailbox with spray paint and make it last. This is a very easy project you can complete in less than a few hours.

Course Home Decor Crafts

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 2 hours hours

Dry Time 1 day day

Total Time 1 day day 2 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Servings 1 mailbox

Cost $7

Equipment

• Painter’s tape
• Sandpaper
• Paintbrush(es)

Ingredients

• Mailbox
• Mod Podge Outdoor
• Outdoor spray paint
• Outdoor primer optional
• All purpose cleaner
• 4 pieces Scrapbook paper optional

Instructions

• If at all possible, remove the mailbox from the post. If you can't you'll have to tape paper around it to protect the post.
• Smooth out an areas that need it with sandpaper. You can also remove any rust at this point as well.
• Clean the mailbox with mild soap and water. It helps to use warmer water and a scrub brush. Rinse with water and let dry.
• If there is any flaking paint or rust, sand smooth with sandpaper.
• If you can, spray with a white primer as a base. Hold the can 6-8 inches from the surface and use a sweeping motion. Apply several light coats, allowing to dry between coats.
• Apply your selected color to the mailbox. Use an outdoor spray paint . Add a total of three coats and let stand 24 hours. Remember to keep the can 6-8 inches, and the coats should be light. Use a sweeping motion.
  
• Make sure the mailbox is completely dry before you remove the painter's tape. Replace the mailbox if you removed it from the post.
• To decorate the inside of the mailbox, add a layer of Mod Podge to the inside. Gently smooth down the scrapbook paper and let dry. Go over the inside of the mailbox again with Mod Podge and let dry completely.
  

Notes

Step 8: I decided against doing the entire inside of the mailbox. I didn’t want to go overboard with the lobsters.

If you enjoy decorating your home in a beach-y or coastal theme, check out these other ideas:

Beach Fairy Garden • Beach Letters • Beach Glass Lanterns • Cardboard Sandcastle • Decorate a Tray • DIY Starfish • Fabric Lined Drawers • Lazy Susan Makeover

The post DIY Mailbox Makeover Your Neighbors Will Envy appeared first on Mod Podge Rocks.