This article was originally published for The Purple Fig a Canadian Blogazine which contributes to both The Huffington Post and Parent Dish. Check it out! http://thepurplefig.com/fathers-day-gifts-personalize-a-crate-box-and-fill-it-with-his-favourite-things/ This is an easy way to personalize a crate or box to fill with things that your dad may enjoy! Materials Wooden crate or cardboard box Image of a photograph printed on paper (we had success with an ink jet, but depending on your surface you might find a photocopy or laser image easier, we recommend trying a smaller test image in the inside of the crate, prior to your final choice) Gloss gel medium (We used Liquitex, purchased at an Art Store) Paintbrush sandpaper (optional) Damp rag Directions For this activity get a crate (we re-used an old apple box which you can pick up at garage sales, antique stores etc.) or cardboard box to put in a present for your dad. Not only does it serve as a gift holder for items, but it can be kept as a keepsake. We wanted ours to have a vintage or aged feeling. If you want a smooth finish, sand the area where you would like to put your image. Paint the side of the crate where you would like to put on the image with a generous coat of the gel medium. Put the image that you printed onto the gel medium (make sure that it is not upside down) so that the white/ blank side is facing you. Be sure to rub out any wrinkles/ bubbles. Cover with another coat of the gel medium. Let dry overnight. Gently, with your damp rag, rub off the paper. If you want it to look aged, rub more vigorously in some areas or sand it when it has dried. Once it has completely dried, paint it with a thin coat of the gel. Purpose Understanding that an image can be transferred. Safety Notes Follow the directions on the product chosen. Discard rag after use. Please like & share: Leave a Reply Cancel Reply Your email address will not be published. Name* Email* Website Comment Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Notify me of new posts by email.
