Paint and Dye Wall Art

by DECOR8Rgirl Added 0 year ago

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I wanted to create some art for our bedroom that went with our decor, but I didn't want it to be wood or plastic. I originally tried putting dye solution right on some acetate, but it didn't stick well. After some problem solving, I discovered that a coat of white paint on one side will hold the dye to make dark, vibrant colors, and when flipped, the dyed paint creates a more pastel look. I love that this piece is double-sided so I can change it whenever I want! I already had the dye, paint and painter's tape, and was able to get the plastic for free (it was an extra piece from the Michael's frame shop), so this project didn't cost me anything!

http://www.ritdye.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/project_large_image/photo 41.JPG

http://www.ritdye.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/project_large_image/photo 51 (Medium).JPG

This is the darker, more vibrant side.

Step 1:

Pick a clear piece of plastic or acetate. After spraying one side of the plastic white, use painter's tape to tape off a pattern. I used different widths of tape to create stripes. Something like "frog" tape would work really well because it creates a nice bond for a clean line. I used painter's tape, so the colors bled, but I like the "rustic" and "artsy" look it left behind.

Step 2:

In a disposable bowl or cup, mix RIT powder with a craft sealant (this one said it was OK to use outdoors, so I figured it would stand up to more wear-and-tear). The one I chose could be cleaned up with water, so that was also a plus.

Step 3:

Paint the mixture onto the piece (I alternated blue and green stripes to match our decor - it's just a coincidence that those were also the colors of the tape I used!). You may need more than one coat - it depends on how dark and opaque you want the finished piece to look.

Step 4:

After it dried for a few hours, I put some more tape over the white sections to allow a few stripes to show. Then I spray-painted over that to add some metallic stripes.

Step 5:

Once that is completely dry, flip it over and tape over the colored stripes that you can see through from the other side. Spray paint the open areas white. This adds another layer of dimension to your double sided piece of artwork.

You can either put this in a double-sided frame, drill holes to hang it with ribbon or wire on your wall, or use a plate stand to create a piece of art for your mantle.