DIY Halloween Signs

Today's inspiration?

Source: lilblueboo.com via Mrs. on Pinterest

There are tons of tutorials floating around Pinterest telling you how! easy! it is to get those perfectly crafted letters onto wooden signs and/or canvas. I'm here to tell ya- sure, maybe it is easy if you have the right tools, but you can bet this amateur crafter never does. I've mentioned before that I'm not a fan of buying more crafting or decorating supplies when I have so many other options in my closet that I could improvise with. It also may have something to do with the fact that the nearest Hobby Lobby is at least 45 minutes away, but I digress. 

The point is, I did this project the hard way- no doubt.

And by "hard", I simply mean time consuming. I did have fun, though and I'm pleased with how they turned out for the most part. These projects would have been so much easier if my Cricut would magically start working again (See awesome canvas craft using Cricut here.) Ugh. I'm so over dealing with that thing. I'm rambling again...Let's get to the craft, shall we?

You Will Need:

• paint
• paint brushes
• printer
• pencil
• scissors
• something to paint on 

1. First, you'll need to paint your canvas or wood and let it dry. If you're using a canvas, let an hour elapse before you paint a second coat. Use your best judgement for wood or any other surface. I used a large foam brush.

2. I only did two coats, but I wish I had done three. Anyway, your next step is to open a Word Document on your computer and pick out a font you like. Keep in mind that you'll be cutting these letters out so find one that isn't too curvy and complicated. Use a big size! If you're one of those really prepared folks, you could cut out all your words and place them where you want them to make sure they fit. Me? I'm a rebel. I just guessed. Print and get to cutting!

(Note: That puffy paint is not what I used, just FYI)

3. Use a pencil to lightly trace the letters (if you're using canvas). A marker might be better for sturdier surfaces like wood.

4. Fill in the letters by using a small bristled paint brush (and paint, duh). I used one that was fairly stiff and only used one edge of it for better accuracy.

5. Let your masterpiece dry. Boom. Halloween fun.

Could we not talk about how on the wooden sign that one "l" is upside down? K, thanks!

Happy Pinteresting!

I'm linking up with these lovely ladies: