Get the look of a canvas photo without the cost! Canvas prints are a great addition to any home, and now you can make your own. Follow these easy steps to get your house looking fabulous.
Make DIY canvas prints
Supplies
- Canvas (2 inches smaller than your photo)
- Photo (2 inches larger than your canvas, printed on top-quality photo paper)
- White wood glue
- Texture cream or CR texture coating (semi-gloss)
- Foam roller
- Squeegee (or credit card)
- Stapler
- Small paintbrush
- Scissors
Step 1: Glue and smooth
Take the wood glue and squeeze an even amount onto the canvas. As fun as squeezing glue can be, don’t put too much onto the canvas, as your picture may bubble. Take the paintbrush and gently smooth out the glue, making sure that you go all the way to the edge of the canvas.
Step 2: Squeegee time
Lay the photo face-down on a clean surface. Place the glue-side of the canvas onto the back of the photo. Be sure to center the canvas onto the photo before pressing firmly.
Next, grab your squeegee (or credit card) and smooth out any air pockets. Start in the center and ease your way to the edges for the best results.
You will need to get under the frame of the canvas to ensure the air pockets are completely gone. Turn over the canvas and double-check that the surface is smooth before letting it dry. The glue will need about an hour to completely dry.
Step 3: Getting edgy
Fold the photo around the edges of the canvas while making crease marks.
Take your trusty scissors and cut a slit on each corner of the photo. The slit will create a flap that you want to sit flush with the top edge of the canvas.
Step 4: Glue, wrap, staple
Whip out the glue and squeeze an even amount onto one of the longer sides first. Once again, spread the glue with the paintbrush. Fold the photo, starting with the middle, over the canvas frame. Make sure there are no air pockets!
Then staple the photo into place. Keep the staples about an inch apart. Repeat the steps on the opposite side of the canvas.
On the corners, make sure you glue the bottom and the top of the flaps you have cut into the photo. Once the flaps are glued down, continue to glue, wrap and staple the remaining two sides.
Step 4: Photo-finish
Lay some newspapers onto your work area. Take the texture cream and spoon a little onto the photo-wrapped canvas. Grab the foam roller and roll the cream around the canvas, being careful not to get any onto your hands. Add more cream as you go and roll until it looks even. Don’t forget to do the edges! It will have a milky appearance but don’t worry, it dries clear. Allow 12 hours to dry.
Great job! You just made your very own canvas print. Hang it wherever your heart desires and then start making more.
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