Whether you are an eco based artist or not, using old projects that didn’t make the cut are an amazing way to create something new. Not only can it save money on new supplies, it can also make you think outside the box on how to re-use it.
For myself, every time I create a painting that I don’t want to release the world – which happens a lot unfortunately 😉 – I cut the canvas off of the frame with an exacto knife, and do a few of these things below with them.
1. Bookmarks. This is such a fun and easy way to repurpose a painting. You can cut the best part of your work out, and they make great gifts too! Remember to sign the back of them 😉
2. Coasters. I use thrifted coasters that are super outdated, paint the edges, and glue my artwork on top of them. They will require resin in order to be functional coasters – which is a whole other job, however if you are up to the task, this can be a long lasting way to preserve little pieces of your art.
3. Collages. This one is my favourite! I take other old art that didnt make the cut as the base, and glue random pieces on top of it. These below will either eventually be wall art, or I might scan them and print them into cards.
And there you have it. I’ve learned as both an artist, and an eco lover, that no piece of work is ever garbage. Keep every creation you make, as you never know what else could come from it. Stay tuned for more posts like this.
