DIY Bride's Keepsake

There are many way's for a bride to preserve her wedding treasure's. Perhaps in a photo album, or hope chest. With this DIY project, not only can you display your memories of your I do's in your home decor, but you can protect them as well.

First step to this project is deciding what to display . You can do a collage of items such as your invitations, and everything in between. Or be simple by adding just a few flowers from your bouquet that have been dried and flattened. I found that for this project things that are flat work best. Now that you have decided on your display, it's time for the ingredients.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:
2 Bottles of Acrylic Water (used for silk flower arranging, it can be found at any craft supply store)
1 13x9 Baking pan (your pan must have no creases or raised areas, it should lie completely flat on a level surface)
Vaseline
Protective Gloves
Paper Towel
Your Wedding Keepsakes
Ribbon
2 Medium Sized Eyelet Hooks
Decorative Drawer Knob
Drill
Double Ended Screw (make sure your screw will fit on your knob)

Now that we have all of our necessities for this project, its time to assemble. Put on your gloves, dip your paper towel into the Vaseline and give your pan a nice even coat. Don't forget about the sides. Almost like greasing your pan when you are baking. Make sure there are no clumps of Vaseline, as this will be visible after completion.

Next take your pan, collage, and your 2 bottles of acrylic water to a well ventilated area. Mix one bottle (as to manufacturers directions), pour it into your pan. Let this set up till tacky to the touch. When tacky add your keepsakes, by gently dropping them in face up. Now take the second bottle of acrylic water, mix it, and pour it on top of your arrangement. Put aside and let dry. May take up to 24 hours.

After 24 hours, and you made sure all is dry and solid. Turn the pan upside down, and gently tap. Your acrylic pane should drop rite out. If not be patient , keep tapping and manipulating the pan until all is loosened.

Add your two eyelet hooks. Measure a 1/4 inch in from each side, and screw in. Take your ribbon and feed it through the first hook going rite into the next. Once you have the length you want (making sure you have enough to tie a bow) cut the ribbon loose from the spool end. Gather at top, make a knot, and tie a decorative bow.

Next take your drill and drill a hole in the wall a tad bit smaller than your screw. Add the double ended screw, your knob, and hang your keepsake up.