Sometimes it just happens, despite our best intentions, a paint brush dries to a crisp. There are ways to clean a brush, and some tricks to get out dried paint – but there are times it’s just no use. If you paint a lot you may have a whole collection of these brushes (is it just me??!). So one day I decided to make something with these brushes – why not turn them into something beautiful. That’s how the paint brush wreath was born.
I initially made this as a gift, but I liked it so much I kept it. I thought it was a great reminder of working hard with our hands – using the talents and abilities God gives us. I also thought it was just a pretty nod to DIY in a home decor (paint brush decor?) kind of way.
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Supplies you need to make a Paint Brush Wreath:
- –Round piece of wood (here’s an option or check your local craft store)
- –Paint brushes that have seen better days (you can use old ones, or dip new ones in the colors you desire)
- –screws
- -Drill
- -Hot Glue Gun
- -Piece of Slate or Smaller piece of wood for a sign
- –Paint (I used General Finishes Dark Chocolate Milk Paint)
First things first, paint your round piece of wood in a dark color. This will show through a bit, so just paint it to hide it.
While the paint is drying, use a small drill bit and drill to drill through the end of each paint brush handle making a small pilot hole. This will prevent the handle from cracking when you screw it to the piece of wood.
Layout your brushes on the circle of wood – adjust until you like the layout. I try to make the brushes across from each other nice and straight.
Once you are happy with how it looks, screw the brushes to the round board with dry wall screws.
A friend was selling some pieces of slate, so I cut one in a circle with my jigsaw and had a local print shop print a Bible verse on the slate. If you don’t have access to such things you could add a small chalk board, or another piece of wood to the top of the brushes.
Here’s a video of the whole process, so you can see exactly what I’m up to…
I love what a good reminder this verse is, “Aspire to live quietly… and work with your hands” 1 Thes 4:11. This is such a good reminder to use our creativity for good – to inspire and encourage others. All while using our bodies to work as hard as we can.
So I hope you never look at a crusty old paint brush the same again – re-imagine it into a beautiful up-cycled paint brush wreath!
Until next time, keep creating!
Jenni