Have you guys noticed that decorating kids’ spaces can be one of the most interesting spots in the house to tackle?
I think it’s because I feel like I can go a little bolder, a little more creative, and a little more “outside the box” then I might in other rooms. Also, I’m not as afraid to DIY it – kids rooms are supposed to be about imagination and joy, not perfection, so it doesn’t matter if my projects don’t turn out professional grade.
That being said, this ridiculously cool artwork project form Alli does actually look like something you’d snag in a cool boutique (but for a fraction of the price). Plus, the possibilities for customization are endless.
Because you can make this art with whatever toy your child is currently obsessed with, it’s great for all ages too. And I think the LEGO version highlighted here would look killer along side some actual LEGO mini-figures on the wall, displayed like this.
Here’s Alli with the details…
I’ve been spending the last few weeks updating my four-year-old’s room. Nothing too exciting, just a few changes here and there. Enough to transition the space from toddler to big boy.
Sigh. Big boy. I can’t believe I just typed those words! Where has my baby gone?!
But I digress.
One of the main things I wanted to focus on in his room was the artwork. I really wanted a special piece that he would LOVE. So when I couldn’t seem to find exactly what I was looking for, I went back to the ol’ standby, making it myself.
He’s been obsessed with Lego these days. So I decided to create some of our very own Lego Artwork using photography.
This is such a simple project, and such a great way to spruce up any space. And it can also be done with any kind of toy.
What you’ll need:
- a piece of white paper/poster board
- tape
- Lego toys (or any other small toys)
- a camera (If you don’t have one, borrow from a friend)
- picture frame (preferred size)
Directions:
First you need to make your backdrop.
Find a space in your house with a lot of natural light – anywhere by a large window. We have two large glass doors in our kitchen, so we decided to set up there.
Just make sure you have a flat space, and a wall behind it. We used our built-in cabinets, but you can always use a wall and the floor.
Take your tape and secure the poster board to your surface, and also to the wall behind it – creating a nice sweeping shape. This will reflect the light onto your subject, and also avoid any harsh lines in the photo.
Tip: The direction of the light onto the poster board will determine your shadows. I wanted my pictures to have a distinct side shadow, so I set up with the daylight to the left of my subject. If you want less of a shadow look, try to make sure the light is washing onto the face of your subject.
Next, place a toy and take some camera test shots.
Most cameras have an automatic setting, perfect for this if you are unfamiliar with your camera settings. These test shots allow you to make sure you have the light you need.
If your shots are a little dark, adjust accordingly – either by playing with your camera settings, or physically moving your backdrop closer to the light.
Tip: Get your kids involved! My son had such a great time placing the toys. He loved being involved making his own artwork, and I loved having a little assistant.
Once you are satisfied with the look of your test shots, it’s time to start making your art. Place your toy onto the poster board, and shoot away.
Try different angles, and frame the shot in different ways. Have fun with it.
Tip: For a more modern look, allow plenty of white space around the toy. Frame your shot in unconventional ways, and your image will instantly become more interesting.
When you are happy with your shots, it’s time to pick the winner. For my son, there was no contest. The second he saw the Spiderman image, he was smitten.
Once you have your winner, choose the size you want (we went BIG at 27 1/2″ x 39 1/4″) and send it to your local office supply shop to print.
Large prints like this one usually run anywhere from $25-$30 dollars. After choosing this frame, the whole project cost just about $50 dollars. And for an art piece of this size? You CAN’T beat that!
We had so much fun doing this project, I can’t wait to do more. I’ve been secretly eye-ing objects from all over the house to photograph.
And my son? Well, he’s got a Spiderman poster larger than he is. I’d say he’s pretty happy.
More MPMK Kid Space Decor Ideas:
- Quotes for Kid Spaces
- Creating a Dress-Up Play Closet
- DIY Book Nooks!
- How to Create an Outside Exploration Station
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Alli