I Don't Know Anything About Motherhood... But I Can Paint?

Happy Monday!

I've decided to use Mondays here on the Freckled Artist for lots of Artistic ideas and tutorials! This way I can use all of the inspiration (and time) from the weekend to post the best photos and descriptions as possible. This weeks inspiration derives from a few places, I've made these pieces before for many occasions like Wedding presents, Dorm presents, house warming gifts, etc. They're cheap, versatile, heartfelt, and meaningful.

As always, my sister was thrilled to help.

This particular project came about because my dear friend/ co-worker is VERY pregnant and due very soon. We had our annual company Christmas party and surprised her with a baby shower! In true Jen fashion, my present was late but better late than never right!? My punctuality is another one of my new years goals I'd like to work on, but I digress.

This is the decoration I painted for my dear friend's new nursery! 

It's a monogram of the new baby's initials! 

And It's very simple to make :) 

I'll show you how! 

Now, I'm not a mother yet. I don't know anything about birthing or raising a child, although I love children. So I didn't want to give her something that I didn't know about. Of course I gave her a few practical things like chocolate and some wine for after the delivery, but I wanted to make her something heartfelt. This is where being a painting major is useful! But you CERTAINLY don't need to be a painting major to make this, it's super easy. 

1. Gather Your Materials 

I purchased this un-primed, wooden plaque at Michael's for about $13. But there were many other selections that were as cheap as $2! This is the perfect blank canvas! 

 

I purchased this wood stain at Home Depot for about $7, a small can will seriously last you FOREVER.

You will also need ACRYLIC paint in whatever colors yous desire, and a few small paint brushes. 

I want to mention that you really only need red, blue, yellow, black, and white paint because from those 5 you can mix ANY other color. Buying pre-mixed paint colors can be a BIG waste of money.

2. Stain Your Surface

I put down a garbage bag to protect the carpet! 

You could also paint the plaque a flat color or design. For this particular project I wanted to use the wood grain. 

3. Sketch your Design

Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to think and explore your options!

Clearly I had fun with this :) 

I went with this one!

If you're seeking inspiration, google! It's a valid tool!

4. Sketch First in Pencil Then Start Painting!

 Make sure to take your time and be patient! 

5. Tada!

You have a beautiful, DIY, heartfelt gift! 

I added the branch and leaves to accentuate the wood grain and give the monogram a natural, woodsy feel. You can detail your own however you'd like! 

I hope this inspired you to skip the line at Bath & Body Works and consider some DIY presents for your loved ones! 

-Jen