Annie Sloan and Archi-living.com bring you a step-by-step guide to creating Matisse-inspired Christmas Tree decorations. Discover more.
Use the templates to create these colorful Matisse-inspired Christmas decorations that you can hang on your tree or use to make bunting or dining table ornaments.
You Will Need
- 120ml pots of Chalk Paint in your chosen colors
- Templates
- 1 x Detail Brushes
- Carbon paper
- Cardboard or paper
- Craft knife/scalpel & scissors
- Cutting mat if using a scalpel or craft knife
- MixMat or similar non-stick mat
- Air-drying clay – 500g
- Rolling pin
- 2 Mixing Sticks or similar
- Sandpaper
- Thin ribbon, cord, or embroidery thread
Related Article: Love, Care, and Creativity of Holiday Gift-Giving, Interior Designer’s Ideas
Step-by-Step Guide for Creating Matisse-Inspired Christmas Tree Decorations
Step 1
Download and print the templates, resizing them if necessary. Using carbon paper, transfer the shapes onto the cardboard or paper and cut them out with a scalpel or scissors.
Step 2
On a protective, non-stick surface, such as a MixMat, roll out approximately half of the air-drying clay pack to a thickness of 5mm. Use two Mixing Sticks as guides.
Step 3
Place your templates on the clay and use a blunt knife or modeling tool to cut out your shapes. Use a cutting mat to protect your table top. Remove any excess clay.
Step 4
Make a hole, approximately 1cm in from the edge of each clay decoration for your ribbon/cord to thread through. Leave the clay decorations to dry for 24-48 hours, turning once to ensure both sides dry out.
Step 5
Once dry, sand the decorations to create a smooth surface for painting with your chosen Chalk Paint. Paint one side first and allow it to dry completely before painting the reverse for a mess-free experience.
Step 6
Thread your ribbon, cord, or embroidery thread through the hole and tie with a knot. Now you’re ready to hang your homemade decorations on your Christmas Tree.
TOP TIP
Wear gloves to avoid the clay drying out your hands. For a sharp edge on your decorations, use a knife or scalpel to cut out your shapes. Keep any off-cuts and remaining clay in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Download your free Matisse-Christmas stencils here.
See all the Christmas Decoration inspiration at AnnieSloan.com
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