DIY Matted Art

After seeing similar framed crosses and sculptural pieces at Garden Ridge for over $50 for smaller sizes, I set out to make my own custom version. I found these large frames with a 21 x 27 opening at Hobby Lobby on clearance a few years ago. I also purchased the crosses, matboard, scrapbook paper and ribbon at Hobby Lobby during various 50% and clearance sales.

I then purchased this mat cutter at Joann's with a 40% off coupon. This was my first time ever cutting my own mat for an art project and it was actually very easy to do. I just followed the simple instructions that came with the cutter and I cut a perfect mat each time I used it. I completed this project before I started blogging, so I don't have any detailed pictures. But I will be using this mat cutter to create a family photo wall in my hallway and I will detail just how easy it is to use the cutter. So if you have a lot of pictures to mat, this $15.50 (including a 40% discount coupon) investment will be well worth it.

I then used some brown metallic craft paint I had on hand to antique the scrapbook paper and I assembled the scrapbook paper and the mat on adhesive foam board and stapled it to the back of the frame along with the ribbon holding the crosses in place.

I am linking up to Kimba's DIY Day at A Soft Place to Land. Be sure to check it out.

EDITED TO ADD: I am attending my very first A DIY Show Off Party! And it is a surprise party! Visit the A DIY Show Off - Show & Tell Surprise Party for more great DIY Home accents.