How many times have you decided to redecorate your childs room and then been been discouraged when looking for art to match thier new room? Either you can find nothing that matches or the art that does match is priced far above your price range.Here are some simple tips for creating art to match for even the artistically challenged!!!

• First, go to your local craft store and pick up some artist's canvases. These are wood posts with canvas wrapped and stapled on to them. Make sure that you pick the canvases that are stapled in the back and not on the sides. This makes for a cleaner look when they are hung. An easy theme is the tryptic; this means three paintings hung together in a group. Buy three canvases all the same size. 11x17 is a good size for a childs room.
• Next, pick up some some Decoupage & collage gel. This is available at any craft store and is inexpensive. You will also need some gloss interior varnish. Delta Ceramcoat makes a wonderful one in an 8 oz. size which will be more than sufficient. This will be located by the craft acrylic paints.Lastly pick up 2 sponge brushes with wooden handles. These are also very inexpensive.
• Now onto the actual art. You can use magazine clippings, fabric pieces, wrapping paper, laser printed photos, or even handmade paper. Search for colors or patterns that match your childs comforter set either in theme or color.Look through magazines, your wrapping paper bin,or it is very in expensive to purchase 1/4 to 1/2 yards of fabric with the print you desire.Once you have decided on what you would like to use, arrange them in an interesting manner on the canvas.Make sure to wrap the paper or fabric pieces around the edges of the canvas as well. Use scissors to cut and arrange the items into an interesting piece of art!
• Now use the decoupage gel to adhere the images to the canvas. Use your fingers for this.Apply a nice even coat but not too heavy. Press the pieces gently onto the surface and smooth with a moistened sponge brush. Smooth out any air bubbles and remove any excess gel. Do not over work! If you need to reposition any of the pieces this may be done by moistening with water. Now that the pieces are arranged, allow to dry for 24-48 hours until completely dry. Using the other sponge brush, apply an even layer of the gloss interior varnish over the entire canvas including the sides. Allow to dry for at least 24 hours before hanging.
•  
• Now hang the 3 canvas horizontal or even vertical in a straight line in your childs room. This is a wonderful way to create inexpensive wall art for your childs bedroom.

The author is Shannon Farrell of Farrell*Design*. Whimsical Wearable art and decor for your child.

Farrell*Design*