https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/photo-block • Posted by Mod Podge Amy
I love capturing memories through photographs, and I particularly like interesting ways of displaying them. Regular frames are nice, but photo memory blocks add a wonderful touch to your home décor - and you can get very crafty with them! Consider using a photo memory block to decorate your child’s room or you desk at work. Here’s how I made mine.
I love capturing memories through photographs, and I particularly like interesting ways of displaying them. Regular frames are nice, but photo memory blocks add a wonderful touch to your home décor - and you can get very crafty with them! Consider using a photo memory block to decorate your child’s room or you desk at work. Here’s how I made mine.
Start by trimming your paper to fit the sides of your wood block. My craft mat has a ruler guide so I was able to quickly measure and cut a 5 1/2″ square - I wanted to leave a 1/4″ border around all side of the paper so that I could see the paint. I cut six squares out of three sheets of paper, choosing coordinating papers so that they would look good together.
Paint your block with the acrylic paint and flat paint brush. You don’t have to paint the entire side of the block since you’ll be applying paper over it; just paint the edges. I applied three coats to each side. Allow to dry. Now that your wood block is dry, apply the Mod Podge. Use a medium layer and coat well. Apply the paper to the center of the block and smooth it down thoroughly with your fingers or a brayer. If Mod Podge comes out the sides, that is fine - simply wipe it away with your brush. Apply the papers to all sides of the block and allow to dry for 15 - 20 minutes. TIP: I applied Mod Podge to the corners and edges of my paper before smoothing down - this helps since the edges are the first thing to dry!
Next add a coat of Mod Podge on top of the paper. Allow to dry and add a second coat, covering the whole block. The fun part is next!
Now add the images and embellishments with craft glue.
Get creative! I planned my picture sizes first and printed them all out before I glued anything down. You don’t have to fill the entire block with one photo; check this finished side out:
You can also do a few photos on one side and add embellishments around them. I had so much fun! Here’s another finished side:
Add photos and embellishments to all sides, except for the bottom and the top (unless you want to). Now I have something for my desk at work to remind me of my sweet dogs when they are at home and I’m in front of the computer.