I have done reverse canvas signs before but wanted to make a new one for quite some time now. It’s June so I figured a hello Summer sign would be perfect.
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Hello Summer sign supplies I used (some items might be similar to what I used):
- 8×10 stretched canvas
- Craft knife
- Scissors
- Brown acrylic paint
- Yellow acrylic paint
- Foam paint brush
- Cricut Explore 3
- Cricut Smart Iron On
- Cricut EasyPress 2 (they don’t have this size I used anymore this is another size)
- Water
- Paper towels
How to make this Hello Summer sign:
1. Remove the canvas from the frame. I did it by using my craft knife to cut it off from the back. Then I pulled off any excess canvas from the staples. I also left the staples on since they won’t be seen.
2. Add some brown acrylic paint to a small bowl and add a little water then mix it. Then brush it onto the frame and wipe away any excess paint. This works as a sort of stain.
3. While the frame dries you can started on the canvas. Cut off the edges of the canvas along the creased lines. Then use yellow acrylic paint to paint the center of the canvas.
4. Cut out your hello Summer iron on decal with your Cricut Explore 3.
5. Weed out the excess iron on from your decal.
6. Once the paint on the canvas is completely dry you can use your Cricut EasyPress 2 to iron on the decal to the canvas.
7. Once cooled you can remove the carrier sheet from the canvas.
8. Hot glue the completed canvas to the back of the frame.
You can now put your hello Summer sign in your house. Another way to display it is by adding string or ribbon to the back and hanging it. If you like this hello Summer sign please share it with others so they can enjoy the tutorial too. And, if it inspired you to create one make sure to show me how it turned out. Happy crafting!
FAQ’s about making a reverse canvas sign
- What is a reverse canvas sign? A reverse canvas sign is made by removing the canvas from its wooden frame, decorating it, and then reattaching it behind the frame to create a rustic, custom sign.
- Do I have to stain or paint the frame? No, but it adds a finished look.
- Can I use a regular iron instead of a heat press? Yes, a regular iron works just fine. Just be sure to press firmly and use even heat across the design. A heat press provides more consistent results, especially for larger signs.
- Is there other ways to reattach the canvas to the frame? If you do not want to use hot glue to attach the canvas back you can also use a staple gun.
- What size canvas works best? Any size works. It all depends on what area of the home you want to display the reverse canvas frame.
- Can I hang or display the finished sign? Of course! Add a sawtooth hanger to the back or simply lean it on a shelf, mantel, or tiered tray for easy display.
- How long does it take to make a reverse canvas sign? About 30 to 60 minutes depending on drying time for stain/paint and how intricate your design is.
- Can I use printed designs instead of vinyl or paint? Yes! You can use printable iron on transfers or even decoupage a printed image with Mod Podge for a different look.
