DIY Friday: Mod Podging - Mother's Day Style

Looking for a special gift for mom, but not sure what could possibly be personal, thoughtful AND fit within your budget? Why not make her something that tells her exactly how you feel.  You could even conceivably use things you have around the house, such as an old picture frame or birdhouse, combined with words and letters cut out from magazines, to turn something into a gift that’s straight from the heart.  What’s the magic ingredient? Modge Podge.

Mod Podge (you may have heard it called decoupage) is a glue that you can use like paint and dries totally stiff and clear. It’s perfect for giving just about anything new life.

What you’ll need:

1. Mod Podge – any version you want, Glossy, Matte (my favorite), glitter, or “Outdoor” (water resistant.) You can find Mod Podge at places like Wal-Mart, Home Depot or your local craft store.
2. A small paint brush – just the cheapest one store has, no need to get fancy.
3. An object to transform with messages of love – try a flat picture frame, an old birdhouse, old coasters, a flower pot, or a piece of thick paper to frame, as if it was a picture.
4. Old Magazines!

To begin, you’ll want to cover the object with pieces of different colored magazine paper. Select a color theme: monochromatic or multi-colored. Tear pieces of these colors from the magazine, cover the object in Modge Podge, and then stick the magazine pieces onto the object to create a background.  

Next figure out what you want the finished object say or look like.  Then try one of these techniques, using the Mod Podge to adhere the letters to the background you just applied: 

* Decorate a picture frame with words cut from magazines, such as “I love you,” and other memories, like “running partner,” “best friend” and “Ocean City 2009.” (You can cut out the individual letters like a ransom note.) In the frame, include a picture of you two.
* Personalize coasters by cutting out your family’s last name. (Use the Outdoor water resistant Modge Podge.)
* Write your mom a sweet note or piece together a favorite quote on a thick piece of paper using words and letter from the magazines. Frame it like a picture. It’s the perfect gift to make her smile when she misses you.
* Decorate an old birdhouse or flower pot to add some color to your mom’s garden, deck or porch – just make sure you use outdoor water resistant Mod Podge.

Cover the entire object with one final coat of Mod Podge, to seal it and let it dry overnight.

For more crafty tips and tricks, check out YAY!DIY.com.