Pallet Art

Last summer I launched into a decorating frenzy for my sons as we moved our oldest into his own room.  My oldest is intrigued with dogs, while out little guy was in a monster truck phase.  I posted a request on my local Facebook forums to ask for a pallet that I could harvest boards from.  I found that our Co-op was pleased to be relieved of a pallet or two that was taking up space.  I cut up the boards and glued them together with Elmer's wood glue.  I set them in the hot sun to dry.  Even in 90 degree weather, it took about 24 hours to completely dry.  Next, I applied wood stain and let them set for a couple more hours. Finally, the magic was ready to begin!  I used acrylic paint & Painter's paint pens to design each of the pieces.  For my 8-year-old, I used a dog silhouette with a quote - something that wouldn't be babyish when he's 10 or 12.  For my 3 year-old, I painted a rough-and-tumble MONSTER TRUCK!!!  Each are about 2' x 3'.

 

 

Upcycled Ceiling Tiles

 This past year, our church was blessed with a new wooden ceiling.  Hence, the old cardboard tiles were removed to install the wood.  After making sure there was no threat of asbestos, I rescued enough tiles to serve as perfect square canvases for our "shine" theme.  We painted the background blue. Each child painted a partial sun and added a spiral and dots.  Our theme Bible Verse was also added along the edge of the sun.  Finally, we painted paper using different colors to create a streaky look (think "Eric Carle.") After it dried we cut it into long triangles to make the rays of the sun.  We used the same technique to make the "shine" lettering using yellow, white, and orange colors.  Finally we cut out the letters and glued them on to complete the project.  I love how everyone followed the same directions, but no two look exactly alike.