Fingerprint Tree

Hi there! Today I'll be showing you how to make this super simple finger print tree.  It's great for celebrations.  Guests can add their fingerprints to the tree, sign their name, then after the party you can hang it up as a keepsake!

You will need the following supplies:

- A canvas or board to paint your tree on.  I used our new wood panel in 8x10
- Shades of brown paint for your tree
- A multi color stamp pad or several stamp pads of different colors
- Paint brushes
- 1 piece of white chalk

First, sketch your tree.  I use chalk instead of pencil because it comes off better and doesn't make your paint dirty when you paint over it.  After you're happy with the shape of your tree, begin to paint it in.  I used a medium shade of brown to paint the whole tree first. Don't worry if you're not so artistically inclined.  Start with a stump then drag your brush to add bigger branches.  Use a smaller brush to add skinnier branches coming out of your thicker branches. 

Then I went in with lighter and darker shades to add highlights and shadows on the branches.

Once the paint is dry you are ready for your fingerprints!

I hope you enjoyed this project and until next time, happy crafting!

Rachel @ Mapunapuna

Crankin' Out Crafts - Episode 407 Distressing with Ink Pads

JFlo shows a quick tip and trick on distressing with ink pads. Experiment with different ink pads and colors to create an aged look to projects.

Add stamping ink to projects to create a distressed look

Catch our newest segment here: Crankin' Out Crafts - Episode 407 Distressing with Ink Pads

Supplies:

chipboard piece

acrylic paint

Distress Ink (or stamp pad)

Be sure to check out our previous post today - Julie from our Enchanted Lake store shares another great way to distress wood using acrylic paint.

RTD Recycled Notebook!

We have an awesome variety of kraft colored, ready to decorate notebooks that are so cool and very inexpensive.  

This is a great gift/favor idea for so many occasions.....  turn it into a best wishes/address book for your Grad or classmates, a fun diary or journal for all ages, a gift log for a baby/wedding shower, or a mini scrapbook you can take and share with your friends anywhere!  

The ideas are endless!  I had fun making this example with some of our beautiful card stock, galaxy marker, bakers twine, stamps and stamp pads...I even added a little pocket with double stick tape! 

 So easy and fun, and super affordable...I can't wait to make a bunch and share them with my friends!!!