Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art

I love when random thrift store items I have bought come together to create something lovely and wonderful. Such was the case with this stained and tattered art poster and the frame that I had purchased awhile ago. I bought the art poster because I liked the colors and subject. The frame had a floral painting in it that I took out to prop on my picture ledge in my sunroom.
Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art
A little trimming and some Mod Podge and I now have an upcycled, gorgeous art piece.
Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art
Keep reading to see the how-to and where I hung this upcycled, thrift store art and why.
I started by figuring out which part of the poster I wanted to use since the frame was slightly smaller. I then cut it using a straight edge and a box cutter. This was probably the hardest part since the cardboard the art print was glued on was extra thick.
Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art
I saved the print information that was cut off to attach to the back of the picture. I love knowing who the artist is, or that is was printed with a copyright in 1951. 
Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art
Next, I used a stiff bristled brush to apply Matte Mod Podge all over the poster in different directions. This is nothing new in craft land. Last time I did the Mod Podge trick was about six or seven years ago and I applied it in a grid pattern to make the picture look more like canvas fabric.
Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art
Here is the texture up close when it is dry. You will see in the other photos that you don't see it this clearly from a distance, but the Mod Podge rally adds texture and elevates a stained paper print.
Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art
I decided, at least for now because my home style is ever-changing and rotating throughout my home, to hang this upcycled art piece on my reclaimed wood headboard in our primary bedroom.
Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art
I think breaking up all of the wood, even though it is beautiful, adds more personality and warmth. Hanging art on a headboard is a bit unexpected.
Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art
I hung it with one nail and secured it with command adhesive strips because I do about 10 full turns a night and we don't need in falling on our heads.
Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art
I love the colors and the subject matter--trees, a beach, a sweet cottage. The frame color enhances the art perfectly.
Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art
Here is the view from the side of the bed of the reading nook and art wall. But, you don't see the reading nook at all from the bedroom door. instead you see the wood headboard. Adding some art to it creates more interest.
Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art
I didn't straighten the pillows that the dog climbed into, but I will show you more of my bedroom in the next few days. I actually still have an entire blank wall to work on. I read a quote today from Robert Hadley that said, "A room should feel collected, not decorated." I couldn't agree more! Take time to find pieces that you love. Use vintage, previously loved items, add color, use art rather than signs, even if it is amateur art or art prints to really give a space personality, and hang it in unexpected places. If you want your home to be unique and reflect you, do not got to a home decor store or Hobby Lobby and pick out an entire room's worth of Made in China decor. Take it slow, add, rearrange, try pieces in different spots, and enjoy the process.
Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art

Upcycling a Thrift Store Poster to Create DIY Art

1 comment:

  1. Only 10 full turns at night!! Wish i could say the same... LOL

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