Custom Canvas Birth Announcement

Hello! This type of project is one of my favorites and it gives me great {hand lettering} practice. My paintings have virtually endless possibilities - just tell me what you the canvas to say, and I can paint it! Most recently, Andrew's cousin approached me to paint a birth announcement for her son. She showed me a picture of something similar online, and I got to work.

Before creating, I need to know:

• canvas size
• color scheme
• text/quote 

From that point on, I refer to any picture(s) I have been given for reference and add whatever creative touches I see fit. Because these are made by hand, I can't offer a "proof" if I am making a painting for someone else {I usually just make these for myself, friends & family}.

I begin by pencil sketching the lettering. This part covers my work surface in eraser shavings until I get everything just right. When I am satisfied, I move on to painting. My medium of choice is acrylic paint. It's very flexible, forgiving of mistakes, and dries to a semi-firm plastic. It's also a thicker consistency that doesn't run or bleed, and colors can be blended easily.

Painting is the most time-consuming portion of the process, and I use many different sized brushes to achieve a clean look. To preserve the canvas for years to come, I always seal my work with Liquitex matte or glaze varnish.

Here are some photos of the the process:

Due to the fact that I work full-time, I'm unable devote my entire schedule to this sort of thing {Maybe someday…} I typically work on painting in the evenings/on weekends. I find it especially relaxing & therapeutic to paint after a long day at the office, and while enjoying a cup of tea! Talk to me if you want to learn more!

 

Keep creating, DIYers!