How to Make Trendy Textured Canvas Art in 4 Easy Steps
Jan 10, 2022
Beautiful and modern, textured art is the perfect way to give a fresh, gallery-like appeal to the walls of your living space. Although often coming at a hefty price, it's easier than one might think to make these pretty pieces right at home, for less! And the best part is, there's no right or wrong way to create them. You'll have a look that truly speaks to you—and there's plenty of fun to be had in the process!
Ok, let's get started. For this project, you will need:
- A canvas – you can buy new, or re-use an old one (we'll just be covering it up)
- Drywall mud/joint compound (like this one, just $8 at Home Depot)
- Tools – we used a simple fork, a potato masher, a spaghetti serving spoon, and a frosting spreading knife; but you can use anything you think might make interesting textures (perhaps look in the gardening shed or kitchen drawers)
- Spray paint – white is a classic, but it can be whatever color(s) you choose (without paint, it will be the light gray-ish color of dried spackle)
*If reusing a previously designed canvas, paint it white before applying drywall and let dry.
Step 1:
Lay your canvas on a flat surface. Spread the joint compound all over in an even coat (don't forget to wrap around the edges). The layer will need to be thick enough to create visible divots, but thin enough to retain texture and dry without drooping – about 1/8” thick.
Step 2:
Time to texture! Immediately after applying drywall, the fun begins: use your tools to create your design, and feel free to experiment with different effects. We tried swooping motions for a wavy look, stamping, and tracing, for instance. And don't be intimidated; the great part about drywall art is that you can smooth the canvas clean mid-work, essentially “erasing” your canvas, allowing you to try and re-try without consequence.
Once finished, let your artwork dry according to the joint compound's label, usually at least 24-48 hours.
Step 3:
Paint to perfection. White is a popular choice, but traces of color can add interest or highlight your favorite textures. Let completely dry.
Step 4:
Voilà! It's time to frame your new canvas art – the finishing touch that gives it such a classy appeal. We used our BNF3 frame to show off the entire canvas – sides and all – giving the illusion it's “floating” within the frame. So chic!
And there you have it! Your very own textured canvas art that you can proudly say you made yourself. How did your project turn out? We'd love to see! Tag us with the hashtag #framingjoy on Facebook (@pictureframes) or Instagram (@framingjoy) and we might just feature your project! Happy creating!