I’ve had these inspiration pictures in my files forever and have always wanted to do a hand painted tree on Grace’s wall….
Problem is, there was no way I could hand draw a tree on a wall. Â I needed an overhead projector to trace the image outline on the wall, and then I could free-hand paint it in. Â Where on earth do I get an overhead projector? Â I could buy one, but they are $300+. Â No thanks. Â I had some generous offers from some friends and family to borrow one from their office, but if you know me in the slightest, I want it NOW. Â Can’t wait until tomorrow, so I’ll have to make-shift one.
Turns out, I’m a genius and my make shift overhead projector, is now an awesome DIY that I want to share with everyone.
Step 1: Find an image you like, and print it out. Â Here’s mine!
Step 2: Â Trace the image on a translucent sheet, using a black permanent marker. Â I used a sharpie I had laying around. Â For the paper you can use a plastic page protector (from the dollar store), or anything translucent you can think of. Â I used a laminator page. Â I just ran it through my laminator to make it clear.
Step 3: Â Tape your page to a box that is open on either end and a suitable size for your page.
Step 4: Bust out your iPhone and download the flashlight app!!! Â It just happens to be the perfect amount of light. Â I tried a lamp without the lampshade, and it was too much. Â The light needs to be tiny and bright. Â I suppose a keychain type flashlight will work too, but let’s face it, we all have these stupid phones.
Step 5: Set up your make-shift projector on a table, and project your image on the wall. Â I had to prop my iPhone up with something – James’s toy car was within reach. Â Fiddle around with everything until you get your image just right on the wall. Â (Don’t forget to turn out the lights)
Step 6: Â Trace your image with a piece of chalk. Â It rubs off easy once complete.
Step 7: Paint!!! Â I used acrylic craft paint and it took me about 4 coats to get it nice and thick.
See how smart I am???