In our first post we talked about taking photos in your garden and using them for art. We are starting with a blank canvas! In this post we will talk about sources to help you place those photos on canvas, preserve the canvas against outdoor elements and other considerations when using art outside.
Before going any further it is important to note that no art should be placed in direct sunlight. This project is meant for protected outdoor areas where there is some shelter from direct exposure. If you are diligent about reapplying protective finishes as the finish wears off you can expect to keep your project for much longer.
Creating your own outdoor art is easy and can be done in a few steps:
Step 1: Transfer your photo to Canvas
Take a favorite photo from your garden in bloom or from a favorite vacation and have it placed on canvas. Before you do this consider your color scheme and size preference. If in doubt, go bold. Color and size are both more forgiving in the open outdoors and to get the impact you want it is a good idea to add more color. Once you have selected your photo there are many online companies that offer photo to canvas services. You can do a quick search to find many suppliers.
If you are a do it yourself person, a vinyl frame is best for using in outdoor environments but many suppliers of outdoor art use kiln dried wood and some use regular wood frames. Just remember that in very humid conditions warping is a threat for long term outdoor placement. Having said that it has never been easier to transfer your photos to canvas. If a Giclee process is available, take advantage and go that way. It will be the most durable application for outdoor use.
Step 2- Add Protective Layer to the Canvas for Outdoor Use
Once you have transferred the photo to canvas you will need to protect it. There are a number of ways to do this. There are spray on products containing fluoropolymer formulas that will do a nice job of weatherproofing your canvas. This may require two applications. Do not use sprays with silicon, though, as this could damage the canvas. Check the details of the product instructions and follow the directions. Polyurethane with a UV protective additive varnish is a widely used method for waterproofing furniture, resins, and a number of other outdoor projects. Always test a small area before applying to the whole piece to make sure whatever process has been used for printing gives the desired effect. Some formulas can darken the color. If this method is used it should be done in a two step process. First apply in even horizontal strokes with a good brush followed by a vertical application. Dry thoroughly between applications. Here are a couple of suggestions: Rustoleum Never Wet is a really versatile product suitable for many uses and works well for this. Mod Podge Clear Acrylic Sealer is easy to use and works well too. Krylon also makes a Polyurethane Coating. If your canvas has a wood frame this works well to protect the wood from the outdoor exposure.
Step 3-Hanging Your Art
Secure the art well so that strong winds wont blow it away and remember that placing it at eye level will create the best vantage point for maximum impact.
Step 4- Final Tips
Just as you would care for your other outdoor furnishings, outdoor art should be brought indoors once autumn turns to winter if you live in areas with harsh weather.
On a final note, just in case you are not the DIY type, I always try to give an option to purchase the product and let the manufacturer do the work so that you can buy outdoor art ready to hang. Here are a few selections to show the variety of styles available to you.
Liguria Alley Weatherproof and Waterproof Art
Sunny Side Weatherproof and Waterproof Art
Outdoor Waterproof and Weatherproof Wall Canvas Art, VINEYARD WALK #2
Outdoor Waterproof and Weatherproof Wall Canvas Art, CONCERTO
Water Fun Weatherproof and Waterproof
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