How to Make Artwork out of Wrapping Paper

Wrapping paper contributes to the extra 4 million tons of paper waste that is made over the holiday season. Rather than let that wrapping paper go to waste and sit in a landfill, repurpose it to create interesting artwork. Because wrapping paper comes in a variety of colors and prints, there is virtually no limit to the type of art you can create. You can choose to simply stretch wrapping paper over a canvas and hang it up immediately, or you can create a collage-like effect with the paper.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wrapping paper
• Paint
• Scissors
• Spray adhesive
• Cardboard or canvas

1. Do a rough sketch of the design that you would like to create.

2. Gather up different pieces of wrapping paper. Use contrasting patterns and prints to give your artwork an interesting texture.

3. Arrange the paper on a flat surface and trace out the desired shapes you would like to create. Use your rough sketch as a guide in this process.

4. Cut out the pieces of wrapping paper, following the lines you traced in the previous step.

5. Add interest to your pieces of wrapping paper. To give texture to the work, crumple up the sheets of paper and then lay them flat. Or, add paint or anything else to give the wrapping paper a more dynamic look.

6. Use spray adhesive to attach the pieces of wrapping paper to a cardboard or canvas.

7. Frame if desired and then hang on display.

[ibooks]

on 12/4/2008 Very interesting