Many people find certain sayings, words, or phrases motivational. Some adopt cherished messages as part of their home or office décor. Whether these unique forms of art are used as wall or as freestanding art or incorporated into fabric designs they can inspire and encourage people in their everyday lives. Below are ideas for using motivational messages in any type of décor.
Step 1 – Make a list of words (like Believe), phrases (like You are a Star) and sayings (like Home is Where the Heart Is) that you personally find inspirational. Then decide how you want to incorporate them in your home. Suggestions include using them as wall or freestanding art, embroidering them on pillows or tapestries, or ironing them onto throws or quilts.
Step 2 – If you don’t want to start the project from scratch, go shopping for unfinished inspirational messages (like Hope) that are already done in wood, resin, ceramic or metal. These can be found at arts and crafts stores and specialty wood and metal shops.
Step 3 – If you have the skills, cut your own inspirational messages out of metal or wood. Decide whether you want a wall or freestanding sign. Designing and cutting out your own message ensures that you can use anything you want rather than be limited to what is available in the marketplace.
Decide on one of the following finish techniques or develop one of your own. Finish wooden signs with a wood finish, following the chosen product’s instructions. Paint a protective matte, semi-gloss, or glossy varnish over the top to give it a polished look.
If wood isn’t your desired like, use craft or spray paint instead, again following the instructions that come with the chosen product. Use a clear acrylic spray over the top to prevent it from scratch or peeling.
Thinking about using a unique faux finish like granite, marble, or metal on wood, metal, resin, or ceramic pieces. All three faux finish options can be found in an easy to use spray paint form at arts and crafts stores. Cover the faux finish with a clear sealer to lock the finish into place.
Step 4 – If you want to embroider the sign, determine the type of letter you want and choose the colors you want to use. This option could include standard embroidery, crewel, cross-stitch or a combination of stitching options.
Step 5 – If you plan to iron the inspirational message onto something, decide what that will be ahead of time. It will help you determine the type, size, and coloring of lettering to be used. Choose flat iron-on letters or embroidered appliques to complete your sign. Follow the product’s instructions to adhere them to your fabric surface.
Step 6 – Make your inspirational sign out of foam core board. Use pre-designed letter stencils or draw your own design. Use a craft knife to cut it out of the foam core, being careful not to fray the paper. Paint the foam edges with a clear acrylic sealer so prevent fraying and denting.
Use craft paint to create a simple, one color background or freehand, stencil, or rub-on designs like polka dots, stars, stripes or anything else you desire. Follow the rub-on instructions for the chosen product. Once you are finished, use a clear acrylic spray over the top to add an extra layer of protection.
Step 7 (Optional) – Add glitter to any type of sign with semi-clear aurora borealis glitter or choose a matching or coordinating glitter color. Use craft glue to prepare the sign, brushing it on in an even coat that will allow the glitter to adhere properly. If an additional coat is required in spots, use a spray adhesive to target the specific areas. Don’t, however, use spray adhesives to try to glitter an entire sign. It never goes on evenly enough to ensure a uniform look.
While pre-decorated inspirational message signs can often be found in home decorating stores, department stores with a craft department, or specialty shops they may not fit in with your décor. Plus, they tend to be limited to only a few phrases or words. For maximum message choice, don’t be afraid to design your own out of any material you desire.
