DIY Craft Idea: Retro Floral Mouse Pad

Who says that your mouse pad can be as unique as you are? Easily transform an ordinary mouse pad into a retro floral work of art with this simple project. (This also makes for a fantastic gift idea!)

For this project, you will need:

- One plain, new mouse pad (Hint: The best types are the cardboard style, not the padded kind.)

- Mod Podge (or other decoupage medium)

- Popsicle stick

- Zsiage "Fleur d'Explosion" print scrapbook paper (available in stores or online at Paper Addict)

- Decorative edge scissors (Scalloped edge scissors look the best.)

- Craft knife

- Ruler

- Pencil

- Flower stencil

- Black acrylic paint

- Sponge brush

- Artist's brush

- Acrylic finishing spray

- Plenty of newspaper to coat your workspace

Always begin projects involving paint and glue by covering your workspace with adequate newspaper and by making sure the area is well ventilated.

With the sponge brush and black acrylic paint, coat the entire mouse pad well. Allow the paint to dry completely before adding a second coat. Let the paint dry completely before continuing, usually within one to two hours.

Using a pencil, trace the flower stencil directly onto the center of the Zsiage "Fleur d'Explosion" print scrapbook paper. With a craft knife, cut the design out carefully from the center of the paper. Measure the sheet of paper to match the same size as the mouse pad. Cut out with decorative edge scissors. (You should have a paper with a flower cutout in the center.)

Apply a generous amount of Mod Podge or other decoupage medium directly onto the mouse pad. Lay the scrapbook paper over the mouse pad evenly. Smooth from the center towards the outside with your fingers or the popsicle stick. Apply additional decoupage medium over the top. Allow the glue to dry completely.

Spray the mouse pad with three to four coats of acrylic finishing spray. Let the project set overnight before using.

TIP: Add additional detail to your mouse pad! Use acrylic paint over the flower paper after the decoupage medium has dried for a unique, personalized touch. Add words (such as "girlie" or "rock star") or symbols or designs with stencils and/or paint. Add other scrapbook charms or embellishments, such as ribbon or die cuts. Or, reverse the pattern by using the cutout paper in the center of the mouse pad, with the majority of the design being exposed acrylic paint. Anything goes, so be creative!