WSVN — A beautiful art collection makes a memorable statement on any wall, but can be pricey! In tonight’s Room for Improvement, our makeover maestro has some DIY tips to get a customized art installation for a fraction of the price!
Martin Amado: "I love getting more bang for your buck when it comes to home decor. So on today’s Room for Improvement, I’m going to show you how to create your own custom artwork for much less."
Martin Amado: "This is a great project– especially if you have small collectibles that you want to showcase. In this case, I found these adorable magnifying glasses. On their own, they don’t say much. But, if you frame them in shadow boxes, they become beautiful artwork and it’s super inexpensive to do. Let me show you how."
Martin Amado: "I found the set of frames that I love, but I wasn’t crazy about the flower inside. So, I thought if I can remove the flower and place the magnifying glass in the center, I have a really nice backdrop for much less. So, it’s worth the extra effort to save money when decorating."
Martin Amado: "The set of six magnifying glasses were only $13 and each handle is completely different which I love."
Martin Amado: "If you notice, the back is actually glued on. It’s not like the typical frame that you can simply pop off the backing. It’s going to require some design surgery, but I’m up for the challenge."
Martin Amado: "First up, use a knife to score all the edges."
Martin Amado: "I’m using a paint can opener to pry the backing off."
Martin Amado: "There you go. The patience will pay off."
Martin Amado: "You want to be careful not to tear the fabric behind it."
Martin Amado: "Take the time to remove any bad nails that are sticking up so that the back is completely flush when you put it back on."
Martin Amado: "I’m making sure I place the glue where the surface actually hits the surface panel."
Martin Amado: "Now, I use a glue gun to secure the magnifying glass to the fabric."
Martin Amado: "A little here and a little here…there you go! It’s not going anywhere."
Martin Amado: "I place a dot of hot glue on each of the corners to secure the backing in place."
Martin Amado: "So, which do you like better? The flower or the magnifying glass? This right?"
Martin Amado: "Four more to go."
Martin Amado: "I’m alternating the handles on each of the frames up and down."
Martin Amado: "Now, as a collection, the magnifying glasses will have a lot more impact on the wall. And, remember, you can do the same with other items including these agate stone slices that I absolutely love."
Martin Amado: "Let’s hang them up!"
Martin Amado: "Total cost for this project was around $65. And, you know each frame would cost you minimum $30 at a store. So, it pays to be a do-it-yourselfer when it comes to decorating. Don’t forget to join me for more tips in our ‘Online Extra’ and I’ll see you next time on another ‘Room for Improvement.’"
Need a little design inspiration? Request a consultation with Martin on our website wsvn.com and click on ‘Room for Improvement.’ Also online, check out Martin’s tips for hanging these custom pieces of art in our ‘Online Extra’ on the home page.
FOR MORE INFO:
Contact Martin Amado:
Web: www.martinamado.com
Twitter: @martinamadotv
Email: Room@wsvn.com