crafty canvas

Designer: Janna Wilson

One of my absolute favorite things to get crafty with is artist canvases. Of course it’s a given that you can paint them so I love to try out other mediums with canvases. Lately, I’ve been so inspired by new fabrics I’ve collected, I wanted to try some fabric covered canvas projects. With some very simple sewing, a little bit of Mod Podge, these projects are fun to make, practical and make great gifts!

You can whip up this stylish fabric memo board in just an afternoon! A vibrant coordinated collection of three fabrics are combined to create a unique contemporary looking décor project.

The board features sassy strips of fabric to add photos, earrings or other memorabilia.

A band of pockets keeps small items at bay; and the addition of some decorative hooks on the bottom make the perfect place to keep bracelets, necklaces or other accessories in sight. I used a “fat quarter” of fabric to cover the wrapped canvas (sized 16 x 20”).
NOTE: Fat quarters are 1/4 yard cuts of fabric that are 18” x 22” in size. Purchase them at any fabric store or quilt shop for $1.50 - $2.50.

The first step in creating this memo board is to secure the fabric to the canvas. In order to adhere the fabric and keep it from pulling (with the addition of other elements and items later) you’ll want to apply a good coating of Mod Podge to about a 1/3 of the canvas at a time. Don’t saturate the fabric with the glue, just apply an even coat. Lay the fabric onto the glued section and press lightly to adhere. Work with about 1/3 of the canvas at a time so that the glue doesn’t dry as you work. Repeat the process until the fabric is applied to the front of the canvas.

Next, you’ll wrap the fabric around to the back of the canvas’ frame, you can do this in three simple steps. The process is similar to wrapping a present. Use a staple gun to secure the fabric on the backside of the wood frame.

Create a simple pocket band with a 13” x 22” piece of coordinating fabric. Fold over 1” lengthwise and press. Zig zag stitch along the raw edge. Fold (and press) the remaining fabric in 4” sections to create a finished pocket band.
Stitch five vertical seams in the pocket to create FOUR pockets. Mark the first seam and stitch in the very center of the band. Measure 4” from center seam (on both sides) and stitch two more vertical seams. And again, measure 4” from outside seams and stitch a second set of vertical seams. Add the pocket to the board by stapling the excess pocket band fabric around to the backside of the frame.

Use the piercing tool in the 12-in-1 Sewing Multi Tool to pierce holes through the layers and add brads to the pockets. I placed brads at the top, middle and bottom of each of the stitched seams (with the exception of the very outside seams). The brads help to secure the pocket and keep it from stretching or sagging.

Cut three 2” x 22” strips of fabric to create the upper fabric bands. With fabric lying wrong side down, fold ½” on each long side over to where they will meet in the middle. Press.
TIP: If you happen have a ½” bias tape maker it will make this step a cinch.
Run a zig zag stitch along the middle of the strip where the two folds meet. The result is a slightly stretchy fabric strip.

Add the three strips (solid side to the front) to the upper portion of the board by wrapping the excess around to the backside and stapling.

Stitch two buttons onto each strip to anchor the strips to the canvas.
Pop photos behind the strips, clip earrings onto them or add important notes. These little memo strips are a great addition to this project.

The last thing to add to this project is the decorative hooks. Find these in a hardware store or the hardware department for just a few dollars. Measure and mark the spots for the hooks; use the Fiskars craft drill to pre-drill holes for inserting the screws.

NOTE: Be sure NOT to drill through the project into your work surface
The hooks are great for keeping items like jewelry, keys and accessories handy.
This project is as fun to make as it is to hang up and enjoy in your home. And it’s so practical! This is a great gift for any girl or even a guy—you can customize it for anyone!

Think about using the same techniques for similar projects. Create contemporary home décor pieces by simple wrapping a grouping of canvases (varied sizes) with a stunning selection of fabrics. The patterns and colors alone make a beautiful display. Step that idea up one by creating a simple but fabulous monogram canvas like this one.

You can craft this project in less than an hour! For this project you don’t need to glue the fabric, simply wrap the 5 x 7 canvas with fabric and staple to secure on the backside.

Create a pattern for the monogram by picking out a favorite font and print and cut it out. (My “E” is Impact font at 600 pt.) Iron fusible interfacing onto a contrasting fabric and trace the monogram onto the fabric.

Cut around the outside of the letter. At this point you can stitch around the edges of the letter if you like. Trim the inside of the letter out with Micro-tip scissors for detailed cutting.

Apply the monogram to the canvas with fabric glue or Mod Podge (being careful not to saturate the interfacing/fabric). Create a loopy wire beaded handle with the Right Angle wire tool. Make a few loops around the circular end, add a bead and then make a few more loops. Repeat this process adding a fun variety of beads and baubles for a funky look.

Lastly, add a little bit of sparkle to this project with Heidi Grace glittered flowers and a decorative center element such as a brad, gem or a button.

Supply list:

Kimberly Poloson Designs: Cabana Blooms buttons
Heidi Grace Designs: Commons Brads (PINKS)

Supplies: 16” x 20” canvas, 5” x 7” canvas, a variety of coordinating fabric, fusible interfacing, sewing machine and matching threads, craft wire (20-22 gauge), a variety of beads, staple gun, and decorative hooks (4), Mod Podge or fabric glue, foam brush, needle, heavy cotton thread (such as crochet thread), iron, ironing board

By Janna Wilson

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