Projects Made with Leftover Paint: Reducing DIY Waste
At Country Chic Paint we’re focused on being as environmentally friendly as possible. That’s why we’re always looking for ways to minimize waste!
Creating artwork from leftover paint is a fantastic way to upcycle materials and add a personal touch to home decor, all while avoiding wasted product. Here are some simple projects you can try that only require small amounts of leftover paint:
Abstract Art on Canvas
Materials: Leftover paint, canvas (or thick paper/wood board), brushes or palette knives.
Instructions: Use brushes or palette knives to create abstract designs on the canvas. You can experiment with techniques like pouring, splattering, or layering different colors.
Painted Pots and Planters
Materials: Leftover paint, terra cotta pots or other planters, brushes.
Instructions: Paint the pots in solid colors, stripes, or patterns. Add additional details with Artist Brushes like flowers, polka dots or other designs.
For instructions on how to create the marbled look used on these flower pots, click here.
Custom Picture Frames
Materials: Leftover paint, wooden picture frames, brushes, sandpaper, and possibly stencils.
Instructions: Paint frames in complementary colors to match home decor. Distress the paint, use stencils for intricate designs or freehand for a personal touch.
Decorative Wooden Sign
Materials: Leftover paint, wooden boards, shapes or plaques, brushes, stencils, and markers.
Instructions: Paint the wooden surface with a base color or stain with a glaze. Once dry, use stencils or freehand techniques to write quotes or create patterns.
Painted Rock Garden Decor
Materials: Leftover paint, smooth rocks, brushes, and sealant.
Instructions: Clean the rocks, then paint designs, patterns, or inspirational words. Seal with Clear Coat to preserve the paint and prevent rain/snow damage.
Greeting Cards or Gift Tags
Materials: Leftover paint, cardstock or heavy paper, brushes, and markers.
Instructions: Paint abstract designs or small illustrations on the cardstock. Cut into greeting cards or gift tags once dry.
Stencil Accents
Materials: Leftover paint, cardboard or paper for stencils, canvas or wooden panels, and brushes.
Instructions: Create or buy stencils, place them on the canvas or panel, and apply paint over the stencil. Remove the stencil to reveal the design.
Colorful Drawer Knobs
Materials: Leftover paint, plain drawer knobs, and brushes.
Instructions: Paint the knobs in various colors or patterns to match or contrast with furniture.
Personalized Artwork
Materials: Leftover paint, canvas or wooden board, stencils (if desired).
Instructions: Paint the canvas or board with a base color. Once dry, use stencils or freehand techniques to write add text, designs, or patterns.
Decorative Jars and Vases
Materials: Glass jars or vases, brushes or sponges, and Clear Bonding Primer.
Instructions: Clean the jars and prime the glass. Apply paint in thin layers, allowing it to dry completely between coats. Distress, if desired to create a more rustic look.
Painted Custom Fabric
Materials: Fabric items (e.g cushions, tote bags, tea towels, t-shirts, etc.), spray bottle & brushes.
Instructions: Spray fabric with water before applying paint. Allow to dry thoroughly, especially before washing.
Serving Tray
Materials: Wooden serving tray & brushes.
Instructions: Clean the tray and let dry before applying a coat of paint. Apply a second coat of paint if needed, and add any designs or patterns as desired once the second layer is dry. Optionally, apply Clear Coat to further protect the paint layer if the tray will be used to serve food or drinks.
Painted Baskets
Materials: Leftover paint, a woven basket and a paint brush
Instructions: Paint the baskets in fun patterns or solid colors to create stylish storage options for your home. Make sure you really get the paint in all those nooks and crannies!
Small Wooden Step Stool
Materials: Leftover paint, a wooden Stool, sealant of choice (optional), and a paint brush
Instructions: Make sure your stool is clean and free from splinters or debris. Apply paint coats until you’re happy with the coverage (usually 1-2 is sufficient). If extra protection is desired, apply Wax, Hemp Oil, or Clear Coat.
Dollhouse Furniture
Materials: Leftover paint, wood or fabric dollhouse furniture, Clear Wax or Hemp Oil, and an artist paint brush
Instructions: Make sure the dollhouse furniture is clean and dry before you begin. Apply paint in thin coats allowing it to dry 1-2 hours between coats. Seal with Clear Wax or Hemp Oil to make it safe for little hands and mouths.
Color Mixing
If you have multiple colors leftover but none are enough to paint a larger project, mix them together to make your own custom hues!
Click here for tips and instructions on how to effectively mix paint colors.
These projects are not only easy and fun but also allow you to personalize your spaces with unique, handmade artwork. We encourage you to get creative and experiment with different techniques and color combinations!
