Arguably the most frustrating thing about starting a craft project is trying to find all the right supplies you’ll need to complete it. That’s why we’ve put together Maker Monday bundles like this Watercolor Wash Bundle, which includes a stencil, Gel Art Ink samples, and other tools. With this kit, you’ll be able to create a gorgeous framed quote on a watercolor background. Your watercolor artwork can add a touch of color and inspiration to a spot in your home, or make a sweet gift for someone else.

But we don’t just give you the tools and tell you to figure it out! Amy Howard walks you through each bundle every week on Maker Monday, and this week is no different. So make sure to check out the bundle and follow along with Amy in this video so you can make some beautiful watercolor decor and gifts:

MATERIALS YOU’LL NEED

You’ll need the materials included in the Watercolor Wash Bundle, which includes:

• Believe In Your Dreams Stencil
• If the Creek Don't Rise Gel Art Ink Sample
• Hey Y'all Gel Art Ink Sample
• Bless His Heart Gel Art Ink Sample
• Metallic Gold ChalkArt Sample
• Spreader
• Artist’s Brush

You’ll also need sheets of watercolor paper and new or rescued frames for this project, along with a dish or plate to hold your inks.

CREATING YOUR FRAMED WATERCOLOR ARTWORK

1. First, add a few tablespoons of water to a dish or plate. 
2. Take your artist’s brush and dab a small amount of Bless His Heart Gel Art Ink into the water. Mix well. Use a ratio of 75% water and 25% ink to get the pretty pink watercolor wash you see in Amy’s video. 
3. Once you’ve mixed Bless His Heart with water, test out the watercolor wash on a scrap piece of paper to make sure you’re happy with the color.
4. When you’re testing out the watercolor wash, you can also practice your brushstrokes. Hold the brush at an angle so the bristles are nearly horizontal. When you paint using angled, sweeping strokes, you’ll get that beautiful layered watercolor effect.
5. Next, cut out the part of the stencil you’re going to use. 
6. Lay out the stencil on your sheet of watercolor paper (don’t remove the backing yet) to see how much of the sheet you’ll paint. The background should be a little bigger than the stencil, but leave enough room for a border.
7. Set the stencil aside so you can begin painting your sheet with a watercolor wash. Remember to hold the brush horizontally and use long, continuous strokes.
8. Spread the paint down the sheet with your brush to create a thin, layered look. It’s not going to look perfect, and that’s the effect you’re going for!
9. Once your sheet is dry, remove the adhesive back to your stencil and apply it to the center of your sheet.
10. Load up your spreader with a small amount of Metallic Gold ChalkArt.
11. Apply it on top of your stencil. Use a little pressure to press the Metallic Gold through the stencil.
12. Pull the stencil from your watercolor sheet and let it fully dry. 
13. Finally, you can place your watercolor sheet inside a new or rescued frame. It’s now ready to hang in your home or be gifted to someone else!

WATERCOLOR WONDERS

Whether you want to create a beautiful frame, decorate a tea towel, or even stationery, Amy shares a handful of great ways to use these Gel Art Ink samples. Be sure to check out this week’s Maker Monday video — and don’t forget the Watercolor Wash Kit. It has everything you need to get that beautiful watercolor wash… permanently!

For more tips on using your Maker Monday kits, Like and Follow A Makers’ Studio on Facebook. Tune in on Mondays at 10 am Central every week for great tutorials like these!