DIY Project

Home decor

Textured plaster canvas art

Raised, sculptural wall art in soft neutral tones, made with joint compound and a putty knife, that looks like a gallery piece.

Textured plaster canvas art
LevelBeginner
Time1 hour plus a day of drying
Cost$20 to $40

What you'll need

Materials

Tick them off as you find them.

Tools

How to make it

Safety

Wear a dust mask when sanding dried joint compound.

  1. Step 1: Tint the compound
    1

    Tint the compound

    Scoop 2 cups of compound into a cup. Stir in a little acrylic paint until you like the shade.

  2. Step 2: Spread a base coat
    2

    Spread a base coat

    Skim a thin layer over the whole canvas with the putty knife. Keep it under 1/8 in.

  3. Step 3: Build the texture
    3

    Build the texture

    Add thicker swoops, arches or ridges on top with the palette knife. Keep any spot under 1/4 in thick so it doesn't crack.

  4. Step 4: Wrap the edges
    4

    Wrap the edges

    Smooth compound around all 4 sides so it reads like a solid slab.

  5. Step 5: Let it dry
    5

    Let it dry

    Leave it flat for 24 hours. It turns lighter as it dries. Normal.

  6. Step 6: Knock down sharp bits
    6

    Knock down sharp bits

    Sand any sharp peaks lightly with 220 grit. Brush off the dust.

  7. Step 7: Seal it
    7

    Seal it

    Brush on 1 coat of matte sealer. Hang it where side light from a window can rake across the texture.

Edie's tip

If hairline cracks show up, rub a little fresh compound into them with your finger. They disappear.

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