Thursday, June 10, 2010

Lepidoptera fever.

And the wreath is complete. I can't take credit for the butterfly and flower idea (that's all Jen) however, I did purchase some larger flowers and leaves for added depth to the original thought. The key to any wreath is to make sure there are plenty of layers and letting some of the materials organically take shape. For example, I would have added some starfish, weathered pieces of wood and something unexpected (like white origami birds) to the seashell wreath featured in the last post. This would have given it a little more character, added some depth and really tied together the composition.






































Anyway, while hot gluing the butterflies to the wreath, I got to thinking about non-tacky ways to incorporate these little colorful winged creatures into your home decor. The best way to do this is by way of the 6th grade bug collection science project. Illustrations should be realistic, preserved butterflies to add texture, typical straight-lined composition, scientific names below a bonus. Here are some examples of what I'm talking about:




If 6th grade science projects aren't your style, focus on accessories that mimic the shape of the butterfly without the added detail. Note how there are no glitter, google eyes or exaggerated wings in any of these examples.

top to bottom: Susanne Phillippson, StyleyWalls on etsy, BH&G DIY




DIY OPP: Check out your local thrift store to find old children's books with science project types of illustrations in them. Rip out, trim and frame the page with a simple wooden frame and thick white matte. 

Or, find a butterfly shape you like online, trace it on some patterned scrapbooking paper and glue on another piece of patterned paper or scrap wallpaper. Finish off with a white matte and ornate frame that's spray painted in a complementary color. Finish frame with enamel finish to add that lacquered look.

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