Spray Painted Botanical Prints

I have so many projects that I want to try...

using so many different mediums and supplies.

Oh to find the time!

Well, I finally did find the time to try this project
that was on the cover of Better Homes and Gardens.
(that is a link to their tutorial)

source, better homes and gardens

I had just received some Valspar Spray Paint in Island Orange,
had a canvas, and plenty of foliage in the garden...
so I gave it a shot...
and perhaps a certain 4 year old (again)
also really wanted one or two of these canvases for her room.
(we will be making more in other colors)

I was really impressed with the Valspar and the gloss finish was gorgeous (you cannot see the gloss as much on the canvas but you can on the "nest" project I am previewing at the bottom of this post)
Can I tell you how much I LOVE the Easy Spray Technology - a larger finger pad making it easier to spray...and the caps just twists to use - seriously...heaven!!
It also helped that the weather finally cooperated
with me so I could head out side to paint away!

Supplies

• 1 Can of Valspar, Gloss Finish, Island Orange
• 16 x 20 canvas, Aaron Brothers
• Rubber Cement, CraftBond from Elmers
• Leaf/Foliage

DIY

1 - Use rubber cement to create a frame around the canvas. Just brush it on around the edge of the entire canvas. It won't be perfect and that is OK. I suppose if you want perfect you could tape it off instead. Let dry.


NOTE 1: BHG also used cold press board...canvas worked just fine...I like the look a lot better! And no need to frame it - it is done and finished looking.


NOTE 2: BHG says to use Frisket (and never used it). I did not have any but I always have rubber cement. For me - it worked just fine!

2 - Find a good leaf (BHG suggests silk flowers). I selected some (real) ferns from the garden (FREE!). Plants with texture and open areas works best. I tried a couple of call lily leaves...guess what...they look like big blotches.

3 - Protect work area (drop cloth, cardboard, plastic) and surrounding areas (we are talking about spray paint) and wear proper protective gear (gloves, eye protection).

4 - Place foliage on canvas in desired position.

5 - Prep paint by shaking...twist Valspar's AWESOME cap (yep twist!) and paint. BE CAREFUL - the first "blast of paint" can cause your foliage to move -  I sometimes had to gently hold my fern in place (with one finger).

6 - Spray all over canvas.

7 -  Remove fern/foliage. Let dry.

8 - After dry, rub the edges of the canvas (where you applied the rubber cement) to "remove" paint and create the natural/uneven border. I just used my finger...you can use an eraser. The rubber cement just balls up (with the paint) and rubs off. It will make a bit of a mess in the form of rubber "balls."

close up of the canvas corner and finish

I adore this look - so happy with my rubber cement and paint and canvas!

you can make the border as fat of thin as you want

9 - Hang and enjoy!

Bright vibrant orange and "tropical" foliage - I am ready for warm weather!

Some areas are more defined and some less defined, but that is part of the charm.

I was lucky enough to also receive a can of Roasted Coffee in gloss too.

I used one of my beloved bundt pans and sprayed it in the beautiful Glossy Roasted Coffee, filled it with some moss and little eggs - instant Easter decor!

I will have a full tutorial on this piece in a day or so...but here's a sneak peek!

NOW...here's the
GIVEAWAY CLOSED

Win 2 cans of Valspar spray paint

Be sure to Like Valspar on Facebook to get all the news and goodies!

HERE'S HOW TO ENTER:
Open to US residents
Runs from 3/6/2012 through 3/13/2012 at midnight PST


LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY
MANDATORY ENTRY: 
1 - Leave me a comment telling me what you want to spray paint


Optional:
2 - Spread the word: blog or facebook about it! Tag 504Main and Valspar
3 - Tweet the giveaway. Tag @504Main
4 -  Follow 504 Main via GFC, RSS or email

Pink, purple, and green art pieces are in the works!

Want to see some more fun projects and have even MORE chances to win spray paint...head over to these other blogs!

Its So Very Cheri

The DIY Showoff
(IF Roeshel's site is having technical difficulties, be sure to check back!
You don't want to miss her project!)

Whisperwood Cottage

                               GIVEAWAY CLOSED



disclosure: Valspar spray paint was provided for me to use. Valspar is also providing 2 cans for the winner

GIVEAWAY CLOSED