Looking to add a little magic and glow to your space? This DIY project transforms a simple canvas painting from Goodwill NCW into a one-of-a-kind light-up art piece. By adding fairy lights, you can give thrifted wall art new life and create a cozy focal point for any room.
Whether you want to highlight stars in a night sky painting, make city lights twinkle, or just add some extra sparkle, this project is easy, budget-friendly and fun to make.
DIY Light-up Canvas Art Project Steps
Supplies You’ll Need:
- Canvas painting from Goodwill NCW
- Battery-operated fairy lights (string lights)
- X-acto knife or craft knife
- Painter’s tape or clear tape
- Pencil (optional for marking where lights will go)
- Batteries for your lights
01
Choose your canvas
Browse the art section at your local Goodwill NCW and pick a canvas painting that inspires you. Landscapes, starry skies, cityscapes or abstract pieces work especially well for this project.
02
Plan your design
Decide where you’d like the lights to shine through. You might want to light up stars, street lamps, windows or just add sparkle across the canvas. Lightly mark those spots on the back of the canvas with a pencil.
03
Make small holes
Using an X-Acto knife, carefully poke small holes through the canvas where you want the light to shine. Be gentle so you don’t tear the fabric.
04
Add your lights
Push the bulbs of the fairy lights through each hole from the back of the canvas so they stick out slightly in the front. Keep the string of lights flat and untangled as you work.
05
Secure the lights
Once the bulbs are in place, use tape to hold the string of lights along the back of the canvas. Make sure the battery pack is positioned near the edge so you can easily switch it on and off.
06
Light it up
Flip the switch and watch your thrifted art transform into a glowing masterpiece! Hang it on the wall, prop it on a shelf or use it as unique mood lighting.
This DIY is a great example of how secondhand finds from Goodwill NCW can be transformed into something totally new and personal. Next time you stop by, head to the art section and let your creativity shine.
Why Choose Goodwill NCW for DIY?
By choosing secondhand items, you’re not only saving money but also supporting job training and opportunities across our local communities. It’s sustainable, affordable and impactful.
Happy crafting!
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