How To Make A Graphic Tile
Instructions & Designs by Kimberly Best
Supplies Needed
The ability to read through these instructions BEFORE attempting this project (grin)
- Your favorite BelverBears Graphics (or graphics of your choice)
- A program that allows you to create a box or rectangle and will allow you to import pictures as well as add text (Microsoft Word, Picture It, Paint Shop Pro, etc.).
- Tiles – size is up to you … suggested sizes are 2 x 2, 4 x 4, 6 x 6 and 6 x 8 (tiles can be purchased at stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s). Ask for wall tile and be sure to get “white” (glossy or matte – your choice). As you perfect your tile skills you can experiment with other colors and textures. Make sure your tiles have been wiped clean and free of any dust, etc.
- Label paper (full size label sheets work best) – these can be found at any office supply stores such as well as Kmart/Wal-Mart. For beginners – using white labels is recommended.
- Clear labels can be used, however, some printers leave the ink in an almost “painted on” state and will rub off when you smooth the label out. Also, more air bubbles are likely with the clear labels.
- Spray Enamel – such as Plaid® Hi-Shine (in the hot pink can – can be found at craft stores as well as Kmart/Wal-Mart). There is also another spray made my Plaid® in a blue and black can that says Spray Gloss Enamel – it’s with the Hi-Shine and does just as good a job!
- Spray glue – such as Elmers® Craft Spray Glue
- Small roller (4”) – Brayer or wallpaper roller will work perfectly.
- Magnets, picture hangars, easel (all optional)
- Imagination!
Now you’re officially ready to start your tile making! I warn you – it’s addictive J
First – open up your graphics program and make a box just a touch smaller than the tile you want to work on. (i.e. for a 4 x 4 tile – make your box 3.8 x 3.8) Now add your choice of graphic(s) and text. Each graphics program operates a little differently, so it is best to search the program for tips on “layering” or “stacking” (putting one graphic on top of another), as well as how to remove the “white box” from around graphics and text (usually done by creating a “cutout”).
If you are using a program such as Picture It – it is best to create the picture – save it as a .jpeg file and then open a blank document and cut/paste the .jpeg in so you will have the ability to move it where you would like it on the page. If you do not – it will print in the center of the page and will waste the rest of your label (not a good thing).
Let your imagination be your guide. For example, Using BelverBears Angels In the Garden collection, insert AngelFrame2, then insert cloudhearts (top), kneeling (lower right), and sun4 between the other two and insert any text you like where appropriate … and presto!
Next – print the graphic on your white label paper (it is best to make sure your page is “full” so you don’t waste your label paper). Set your print quality to “High” or “photo quality” for best results.
Then – cut the graphic out and spray a very light coat of the Hi-Shine or your fixative over the label. Be sure to spray from approximately 10-12 inches away and be sure to use in a well ventilated area. Let dry for about 5 minutes.
Turn the graphic over and spray a light coat of your Spray glue on the back (a little heavier around the edges is recommended for better staying power). Immediately begin to place the label on the tile. It is recommended that you adhere one “side” of the label and then use a soft paper towel or roller (the ones used for wallpaper can be purchased for less than $2.00 at a hardware store, a brayer runs about $9.99 and can be found at craft stores.) to smooth the label out completely – check for air bubbles and make sure you get them out now or you may be stuck with them.
Spray a coating of your fixative over the entire tile – yes sides too – a light coat is a must! Spraying too heavy will “cloud” the tile.
Let tile dry for at least 5 minutes in between coats of fixative. 3-5 coats is recommended.
If you like – secure a picture hangar or magnet on the back with glue (not recommended for tiles over 4 x 4).
Tiles may also be displayed on an easel (you can purchase them at Dollar Stores, WalMart, Kmart, Craft Stores, etc.)
Written by: Kimberly Best
“The Tile Lady”
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