Sometimes creative inspiration comes from the beings we love most and that definitely includes our loyal canine companions. Perhaps you’ve already made a dog photo album to display on your coffee table, or maybe dedicated wall art space to display the undeniable cuteness of your furry best friend. It’s understandable if you’re in love with the cuddly creature that shares so much of life’s joys with you.
We have an idea for how you can showcase their adorableness: a DIY dog canvas art project that will draw out your inner artist. If you’ve been wondering how to make dog silhouette art then this is the project for you. The end result? A custom dog art piece you will be proud to show off.
How To Make Dog Canvas Art
You’ll need to visit your local art store for the materials below. Once you finish shopping, follow our steps to make this easy dog painting. We suggest you select a workspace that is well-ventilated, like a room with enough opened windows or an outdoor area like a garden. Now, let the fun begin!
What You’ll Need:
- Pencil
- Canvas (any size you’d like)
- Printed photo
- Scissors
- Acrylic paint
- Liquid gold leaf
- Painting brushes (we recommend 3 different sizes)
Step 1: Select and print out the dog photo you’d like to use. Print the picture as big as needed to fit the canvas you’re using. Choosing a photo with a strong profile is best for creating this DIY dog silhouette art project.
Step 2: Use scissors to carefully cut out the printed silhouette, getting rid of all the blank space. You want to make sure your scissors are sharp so that you can end with clean and smooth edges.
Step 3: Now, place the cutout on top of your canvas and trace the outline with a pencil. If you like,you can place double-sided tape on the back of the cutout to position it firmly on the canvas — just be sure to remove the tape once you’re done tracing.
Step 4: Dip one of your brushes into the liquid gold leaf paint and fill in the silhouette you just traced. You can also choose a metallic paint if you wish. We recommend applying at least two layers or as needed until the application looks completely solid with no transparency.
* Pro Tip: Wash your brush immediately after finishing to prevent the bristles from drying and hardening — a mild dish soap with water will do the trick.
Step 5: Once you finish with the gold leaf or metallic, use the acrylic paint to cover the area around the silhouette. Pick any color you’d like — you can always mix the paints in a bowl to get your desired shade.
Step 6: Take a fine point brush to add some finishing touches. For example, you can add fur with several quick strokes. You’ll also want to fill in any white space that has been left uncovered.
Step 7: Now it’s time to let it dry. Drying time will depend on how many layers of paint you applied, so we suggest setting the canvas aside and leaving it to dry for at least six hours.
Once it’s dry, hang your canvas and enjoy!
It’s important to remember to have fun with this project. This DIY canvas dog art will surely prompt some excitement and praise — a piece worthy of display at home or the office. This art piece will project your pup’s great character, so consider adding a special dog quote on the canvas to make it even more special.
Hang the canvas you just created amongst pieces you already own or on the family art wall. A great idea is to print a photo canvas of your dog to place next to your brand new piece.
Don’t forget some gifts to thank your canine muse for all the love and inspiration they provide. A personalized bandana, comfy new custom dog bed or doggie treat jar full of their favorite snacks are all great ideas your pooch will love.
