Make It: Tree Stamp Pillow

I am pretty surprised with how well this DIY turned out and how easy it was to actually make. I have definitely had those projects that turn out different than expected or end up being way more work than anticipated, but I was pleasantly surprised with this one. For all DIY novices out there, this is not as challenging as it looks!

It all started when I saw this photo on Pinterest. I loved the natural element and simplicity of the evergreens. I didn't however, love the price. As a true DIYer, I instantly thought to myself, I can make that. 

Let's get started…

Supplies:

1 large potato, $1
fabric paint, $1
paint brush
pillowcase, set of 2 for $9 at Target
knife
pencil
scrap cardboard/magazines
__________
Total  $11


Step 1
Cut the edge of your potato, creating a flat surface. Next, draw your shape onto the flat side of the potato. I found a pencil worked best because I was able to lightly carve out the shape; a pen didn't show up.

Step 2
Now it's time to cut out our your shape. Start by tracing the shape with a knife, cutting about 1/4 inch into the potato. In order to create a stamp, you want to cut out around your shape. I did one branch at a time, cutting around the edge of the shape and cutting 1/4 into the potato until the extra popped out. Keep doing this around the whole shape. Don't worry if you cut away a part of your shape you don't want to, just glue some potato and let dry. Then recut to form your stamp. I cut away too much of the bottom branch and a little Gorilla Glue worked great.

Step 3
Test your shape! After you cut out your stamp, grab a scratch sheet of paper or cardboard (or scrap fabric if you have it) and apply a generous amount of paint onto your potato stamp and spread evenly with a brush. Press your stamp firmly onto your scratch material for about five second. Check out your shape and see if you need to make any changes.

Step 4
Now it's time to stamp your pillowcase. Insert cardboard or magazines inside your pillowcase to prevent paint bleeding through on the other side. Apply a generous amount of paint and evenly brush it across the stamp. Firmly press your stamp onto the pillowcase but be careful not to move it while pressing. Repeat until you have covered your pillowcase with lovely trees! Don't worry if your tree stamp is bare or has some empty spots; you can touch it up with your brush. It doesn't have to be perfect, that's part of what it makes it special!