"Magic Happens Shadow Box" & Tutorial by Belinda Spencer DT

Hi all!!

This month at The Dusty Attic I have an Off The Page project with tutorial to share!!

I loved the ATC Shadow Box as soon as I saw it and as we will soon be renovating the kids' bedroom, it was the perfect opportunity to create something pretty for my daughter's new room.

Here is the finished project...

I have used lots of whimsical little creatures and fairies from the Graphic 45 Once Upon A Springtime range.

Here is my tutorial on how I created this project...

STEP 1:

- Before I even get started creating, I like to have a bit of a trial run at folding my Shadow Box. This ensures that all the sections are pre-folded and I know exactly where everything is going and where to put the glue.

STEP 2:

- Fold and glue all sections of your Shadow Box into place.

- Hold together with our hands until the glue dries a little and it will hold in place.

- Then secure with elastic bands (or hairties as I have done!), until it is completely dry.

- Don't worry if the sides get a little grubby with the glue as it will all be covered up later.

- While it is drying, you can gather all of your supplies.

STEP 3:

- Paint the whole Shadow Box with a base coat of white gesso. I gave mine two coats.

- Set aside to dry.

- Add some bricks from the Brick Wall Panel to the front using a strong glue such as Helmar 450.

- Cut a piece of Chicken Wire Panel to fit the centre of the Shadow Box and glue in place.

- Use a sponge to dab gesso over the top of the chipboard pieces.

- Allow to dry and then sand the edges to create an aged, distressed look.

STEP 4:

- Take your various chipboard pieces and sponge on some white gesso. It doesn't have to completely cover the chipboard. A patchy look adds more interest.

- Next choose some colours from the gorgeous Dusty In Colour range of Acrylic Paints and lightly sponge those over the top.

- Once the paint is dry, spray over some Dazzling Diamonds Glimmermist for a little shimmer.

STEP 5:

- Now it is a matter of layering all of your chipboard elements and fussy cut pieces.

- The trick is to start in the centre of the Shadow Box and build up your layers from there..

- You can use varying thicknesses of 3D Foam or Magic Mount to help you create a really 3D effect.

I hope you have enjoyed my tutorial and I have given you some inspiration to create your own ATC Shadow Box.

Dusty Attic Products used:

DUSTY IN BLOOM:

- Evening Blush DA0808

- Leaves DA0810

DUSTY IN COLOUR:

- Alabaster DA0902

- Dusty Pink DA0907

- Mountain Meadow DA0916

- Jungle Green DA0920

- Gingernut DA0922

CHIPBOARD:

- ATC Shadow Box DA0823

- Brick Wall Panel DA0316

- Fancy Trim #3 DA0469

- Floral Corners DA0848

- Toadstools DA0565

- Typewriter Font ABC Set DA0143

- Watering Can DA0403

My next mission is to create a boy themed one for my son's bedroom!!

What have you got planned for yours?

Happy scrappin'

B-) xo