Springtime Lovin

Now that summer has officially come to call, I've started on all my projects and goals. Since I do not start my wonderful nanny job until June 9th, I have quite a bit of time on my hands. Since Emily and I decided to move off campus, I've been collecting various pieces of ideas and inspiration through StumbleUpon and my favorite site, Anthropologie.

Well tonight I've officially finished my first project for mine and Emily's apartment. I absolutely love all the fun spring/summer colors and patterns, so I took a little trip to Michael's and got my supplies. And this is what came about...

Laying out the pattern of the paper. I decided to be brave and cut up the four sheets of scrapbooking paper instead of simply covering the canvas with four, large blocks. 

After the glue was applied. I mixed Elmer's Glue-All with equal parts water and used a paintbrush to apply it. I first covered the canvas, then laid down the paper. I then covered the entire thing with another overall layer of glue. Some of the edges were stubborn so it took a few more attempts. By the time I finished it was almost midnight and the whole thing needed a night to dry. 

I really like the glossy look of the wet glue. If I buy real Mod Podge then I'll get a glossy finish over the paper.

...late night musical inspiration...also good when inhaling the scent of glue

I love the contrast between the horizontal and vertical stripes, the plaid and checks, and the floral and scrolling. I also really like the colors in these papers--pink, mauve, teal, blue, and green. 

You can barely tell, but here's a shot with the pencil sketching of the letters, "Love." I was pretty nervous by this point, since I was getting close to the point of painting. I.E., the point of no return...

And I LOVED it!! After I started seeing how the curves of the L contrasted with the straight lines in the paper, I fell in deep lovin with the colors and design. You never know how it will work out, but sometimes it's far better than you ever anticipated. 

Ta-da!! I think the lettering looks a little like Minnie Mouse. I think this would go up in her cottage next to a picture of her and Mickie. 

It's summer, and I'm so excited about the many projects I hope to complete! Among these are more wall decor, a coffee table (which I hope to refinish in an aqua blue), various throw pillows and linens, and hopefully some lampshades. So here is wishing everyone a ton of Summer Love.