Create Framed Fabric Art

Sometimes when you study a strip of fabric, you realize that it looks like a work of art. Framing this fabric and turning it into wall decor is easy and affordable. I decided to create framed fabric art from elegant cloth napkins. You can visit a fabric store like JoAnn's and search for a fabric that will charm you. As to frames, any old frames you have at home will do. And if you have none, just visit a craft store to find affordable frames. Here's how to create framed fabric art yourself.

Step #1. What You'll Need

To create framed fabric art you will need scissors, tape and three main supplies: frames, enough fabric to fit the frame sizes and spray paint, if you wish to give your frames a makeover, which is especially helpful if you're using mismatched frames for this craft. As to the fabric, don't choose something too delicate that may rip when you stretch the fabric in step 3.

Step #2. Paint the Frames

If you like your current frames, skip to step 3. Otherwise, you have two options for creating your framed fabric art. You can paint your frames in a single color, perhaps using textured finishes like hammered paints from Rust Oleum or crackled paint finish from the same company. Alternatively, paint all the frames in water-based primer. This is especially important if you're using plastic or metal frames to which some paints will fail to adhere permanently without the help of the primer. Next, paint your color of choice of the primer (once it dries). Finally, sand the frame along the edges to give it a distressed finish the reveals the white primer in places.

Step #3. Create Framed Fabric Art

Take the glass that was in your frames and rest it over the fabric you wish to turn into fabric wall art. Cut the fabric down to an inch all around. Next, pull the fabric tight and stick it to the back of the glass using tape. You really want to stretch the fabric until it acquires a nice, taut look on the opposite side. Finally, cover the back of your framed fabric art with the cardboard back of the frame, then turn or push down the latches that hold the back of the frame in place.

Step #4. Display Your Framed Fabric Art

I chose to display my framed fabric art on a console table with wine glasses beside it. You can hang a series of small framed fabric pieces in symmetrical arrangements. Or you can create a single framed fabric art to fill a whole wall, perhaps in your dining room.

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