If you are looking for DIY gifts on a budget, this project is the answer for everyone on your list! And here’s why: endless options!
You can basically create any pattern on any object from tote bags to coasters to bandanas to tea towels. Plus, you can basically be any age to make these.
First gather your materials:
Craft foam
Cardboard
Fabric paint
Tote bags, gift bags, tea towels
Paint brushes
Glue
Fabric markers
Cut out a shape from craft foam that you want to appear on your material.
Cut a piece of cardboard that’s slightly bigger than your shape.
Glue your foam shape to the cardboard; let the glue dry before stamping. (Remember, your image is going to be a mirror of what you see, so if you are designing anything that relies on direction, like letters, make sure you glue it onto the cardboard backwards.)
Brush a thin layer of fabric paint onto the foam shape. It’s good to do a test print on scrap paper before going right to your item. Press the inked stamp onto your surface and remove.
Repeat step 4 until your pattern is complete. If you want to change colors, make sure you stamp off the excess paint before applying the second color.
Let dry completely.
Optional: You can add little details with fabric markers once the paint is completely dry.
A few commonly asked questions answered:
Wash, dry and iron? Yes! You can wash a fabric item in warm water; fabric softener keeps the paint flexible. It’s best to iron inside out or on the back of the fabric.
Acrylic paint or fabric paint? Acrylic paint will function similarly, but the reason we like the soft fabric paint is because it prevents the pattern from feeling rough and stiff. If you are stamping on a notebook or notecards, acrylic paint is just fine.
Benefits of printmaking as gift making? The reason we love this method for DIY gifts is 2-fold. First because you can create a custom pattern that appears professional and crisp. And secondly, if you are making lots of gifts, you can basically become a little print factory and mass produce your gift items!
Skill Level? You can create a dynamic pattern with a simple circle, square or triangle! You don’t have to be an expert artist to make something that is really beautiful and textured. Play with colors, layering and juxtaposing shapes to create something really unique.
Play with other household objects that can become stamps. Think pencil erasers, wine corks, forks, a cut potato, a leaf and more!
