This post was most recently updated on September 22nd, 2019
Using framed stationary or scrapbook paper to decorate your home is a great way to change things up seasonally, without going to the expense of buying new accessories that will only be used for a short time.
By now, you all should know that I’m a huge fan of scrapbook paper! I swear I could spend an hour or more in the stationary aisle at Michael’s. It’s my form of entertainment. Sad, but true. And, yes, I really do need to get out more, lol.
I’ve used paper for lots of projects around my home. At $1-$3 per 12×12 sheet, it is just about the most affordable wall art you can buy! There are so many styles to choose from that the possibilities of what you can create with it are just about endless. Take this graphic arrangement in my craft room, for example. I already had standard black and white frames that I could use, so the whole collection of framed pieces cost me under $10. I also made a large piece for my twin boys’ nursery from 6 sheets of scrapbook paper, which you can see by clicking here: DIY Nursery Artwork.
Last week was my first time using it to decorate a mantel.
When I spotted this cutie…
…and then this mod floral piece…
…and these rain drops…
…I knew they’d be coming home with me!
They were perfect for a Spring mantel that I’d imagined.
I simply cut the paper to fit frames of different sizes, and then arranged them on the mantel by layering them against each other. I already had the glass frames on hand – I purchased them at HomeSense a couple of years ago. I like how the edges feel kinda like large raindrops.
For the large Raindrops piece in the back, I adhered two 12×12 sheets to a 12×24 inch canvas, and then covered it with glossy mod podge. While the mod podge was still wet, I sprinkled some turquoise sparkles (from the Martha Stewart line) over the top to give it a nice shimmery effect. To give it some height, the canvas is attached to an easel.
All in all, excluding the things I already owned, this little arrangement cost me about $15. The paper was $5, and the canvas was about $10. (I already had the other supplies I needed like mod podge and glitter.)
The arrangement provided the focal point of my Spring Mantel, inspired by “Singing in the Rain, which I posted about the other day.
If you’re not one to change things up in your home seasonally because of the expense and the effort, why not buy a few sheets of seasonally-inspired scrapbook paper, and pull out some old frames you’re no longer using. Its a great way to add some festive spirit to your home without spending a heap on seasonal baubles and knickknacks.
And, you don’t need a mantel. Any shelf or side table will do!
Until next time, happy Spring decorating.
~Kerri
P.S. I’m sharing this with Beth…
