Pet Silhouette

The sun is out and the birds are chirping .... it's a true spring morning on Okinawa!

I feel like I've earned it, though, after nearly three weeks of rain during January. During that time, hubby was gone for training and I was home alone with my dog and a box of a craft supplies. You do the math.

So! I'm sharing this great DIY tutorial to add a sweet personal touch to your home.

Things You'll Need:

• scissors or exacto knife and pad (or cardboard - something thick that won't butcher your table)
• pencil
• double-sided tape
• digital camera
• printer (B&W is fine)
• photo frame (with mat) - (*Frames don't have to be expensive! Check the local bargain stores. Also, for a more eclectic look, try different styles of frames.)
• one piece of black construction paper or cardstock
• one piece of fun, patterned paper

Directions:

Step 1: Take a side (profile) photo of your (willing) subject. 

Step 2: Upload it to your computer and print it on normal computer paper. (*I recommend using the "QuickPrint" option on your printer to save ink. You're just using what you print as a tracing guide so quality doesn't matter.)

Step 3: Create your silhouette. Here, you have two options:

• Option 1: You can use the double-sided tape to affix your printed image to the piece of black paper. Then (carefully!) cut them both out at the same time. (*Only use this process if you're sure the two pieces of paper won't move.)
  
• Option 2: You can cut out the printed image and then affix the printed image to the black paper. Use a pencil to trace the image onto the black paper. Then, cut it out.
  
  
  

Reminder: You're creating a silhouette so just cut around the perimeter. Also, the personalization/fun part is in the details. For me, it was Banks' neck roll and nose wrinkles. Make sure to include the little things: fly-away hairs, eyelashes, etc.

Step 4: Cut down the patterned paper to fit the frame opening. Do NOT cut it so that it just fits the opening. Make sure to leave a little extra on all sides so you can tape it to the mat.

Step 5: Use the double-sided tape to affix your (black) silhouette onto your fun paper. Make sure it's centered and remember that you may need to tilt the photo a little to make the straighten it out.

Step 6: Pop your artwork into your frame.

Et voila!

(You could also try this in reverse - black background with a fun, patterned silhouette!)