A few months ago I got to work with the wonderful people at Elmer’s and throw a craft party! We had a BLAST! Then last month they invited me to participate in a “look for less” challenge. I was so excited, I had a hard time narrowing down the “look” I wanted to create my own version of. But I finally found something (on Pinterest of course).

I fell in LOVE with these pieces by Valerie Boy (as seen on Apartment Therapy). My version… and Valerie-Boy’s.  Her’s is made of powdered metal cut and bent, mine is Canvas, paint and lights! Her’s cost an arm and a leg (and a first born) and mine was a grand total of $25!

I had a weird wall space I wanted to cover so I went with a long and narrow canvas that I picked using a 50% off coupon!  This is 24″ x 48″ that I got for $25 (the only thing I had to pay for!)!  The perfect size for my project.

Next I used the X-ACTO Designer Series Gripster Knife and cut flowers out of black cardstock that I had on hand (so I could see it through the paint), then using CraftBond Repositionable Glue Stick I stuck, (and removed and re-stuck until I like the placement) the flowers onto the canvas!  AWESOME, I am already in love!

Next I used some thick Acrylic paint all over the front, in 2 coats.  I used big strokes going for a thick chunky look.  But you could paint it on pretty smooth if you wanted.  I kind of wish I’d gone for 3 coats, but I wanted to peel off the flowers while it was still wet, and before they were stuck on for good.

Next, obviously, I peeled up the black paper.  There was something very satisfying about peeling it all up!

I let it dry overnight!  I was planning on using a fancy expensive light to light up the back, but then I laid eyes on my icicle lights (in a pile of throw away- no more icicle lights for me- what were we ever thinking?  So messy looking).  Anyway I used some nails to attach the lights (I nailed them half way in then bent them over the lights) in a criss-cross pattern to cover the whole back.

And they work!  Not QUITE the look I was going for, but the back is lit, and it’s MUCH cheaper than buying some fancy, heavy lights trying to get them to work.  (notice this is with a flash)

So my weird wall space, between two doors I have this narrow space with this HUGE, ugly electrical panel.  I haven’t found anything to cover it with so this was the perfect chance!  I love it there.  It’s off centered for 2 reasons, 1) to cover the panel and 2) to leave the light switch uncovered.  I don’t want it to fall off the wall as the kids try to turn on lights! (no flash but the middle of the day)

And all light up in the dark!  I love it!  Of course it’s hard to really capture lit up pieces with cameras!  SO come on by and check it out! (no flash at night)

I finished my project a few weeks ago BUT with all my computer issues I haven’t been able to post it, so I’m the LAST blogger whose participating to get my project up! Gah… my computer issues are a pain, but when they mess up something I’m doing for someone else it frustrates me to no end! Lucky for me Elmer’s not only has wonderful products, but they also have amazing people working there, they have been so patient with me

I was given free product to review and use for this project, but all opinions are my own