DIY Network

Art Canvas Door Turn your door into a fun art canvas. From "B. Original" episode DBOR-504

Open the door to your creativity today!

Remember learning as a kid that you shouldn't draw on the doors? Forget it.

Michele Beschen shows how to flex your creativity on interior doors the grown-up way, complete with artist's canvas and even a frame. The B. Original host shows how to transform a flat, interior door into a giant art canvas that's ready for whatever inspirations you want to throw at it. She even frames up the canvas with trim molding for a sophisticated, finished look.

Scroll down and start turning your doors into artwork today.

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Art Canvas Door

Materials:

screwdriver
roll of artist's canvas
permanent spray adhesive
artist's gesso or primer
acrylic paints
sharp craft or utility knife
decorative trim
air nailer
3/4" nails

• Choose a flat door to use for this project. Remove the door from its frame and lay it on a secure, flat work surface. Use a screwdriver to remove the knob assembly and set aside.

• Pay attention to the way the door closes: If you are working on the side of the door that hits the doorjamb when it closes, the canvas and trim work will need to be smaller so it doesn't interfere with the door closing. If the project will appear on the side that doesn't hit the doorjamb, the canvas and trim can go out to the edge of the door.
  

  	Figure A
  	Figure B
  	Figure C

• Cut a piece of artist's canvas a little larger than the door and attach it to the door with a permanent spray adhesive such as 3M Super 77. This is the most important part of the project, so take your time with it:
  • Work in small sections at a time.
    
  • Spray the adhesive on the door and carefully smooth the canvas over it (figure A). Smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles before the adhesive sets up.
    
  • Work your way down the door, smoothing as you go until the entire surface is covered.

• Using a sharp craft or utility knife, trim the canvas to its final size. Remember to allow space for the door to fit in the doorjamb, if needed. Michele Beschen recommends using a straight edge to draw a cutting line around the edge of the canvas.

• Prime the canvas with artist's gesso or other primer and let it dry completely.

• It's painting time! Get out the brushes and paints and create whatever you like (figure B). Use acrylics, oils or even multiple types of paint; check out some of Michele Beschen's fun paint techniques for inspiration.

• Let the painting dry completely, then frame it with decorative trim (figure C). Measure and miter the trim pieces, then install with 3/4" nails. Remember to leave space for the doorjamb, if needed. If you plan to paint or stain the trim, do so before installing it.

  Safety Alert: Always wear safety glasses and use caution when using a miter saw, power saw or air nailer.

• Use a sharp knife to cut holes in the canvas to accommodate the doorknob shaft and screws.

• Reinstall the knob, re-hang the door and admire your functional work of art.