How-to-make: Family Tree Framed Art

Are you into geneology? Do you know your roots? I am constantly digging into my family ancestry and encourage all of you to do the same. A great place to go is the Mormon Temple...in Los Angeles, CA it is on Santa Monica Blvd., just east of the 405. They have a fabulous family center where ANYONE can visit and use their computers, books, microfiche machines, and even get lessons as to where to start. I luv it there and it has recently been renovated, so I am anxious about getting back there soon! They welcome all denominations and won't try to convert you...PROMISE!

Meanwhile, I've made this family tree frame as a gift and gave it to my youngest son and his wife. It's very easy to make too; however what might take time is getting all names on the tree. Our family was easy, but some won't be. 

Here's what you need:

* 1 8 1/2 x 10" frame with or without a mat...I took mine out, because my background textile art ended up a bit larger than it could have been
* fabric and ribbon scraps...don't buy anything new...use what you have
* specific fabric or ribbon dedicated in making the tree itself
* Family names printed out
* Mod Podge™ 

What you do...

Before you start...sketch a tree on paper and place names on it, so you'll have some sense as to how large this will turn out and then continue...!

1. Create a textile art piece as your background...I made waves of color, cut a round circle of white fabric and made a moon and then added ribbon and yarn as I created. And as you can see, I left the fabric without finishing the edges...I believe unraveled looks more artistic in some projects. Here, I used some sheer fabrics where it made sense to leave it alone. You can get a clean cut on other fabrics such as cottons.
2. Fold pieces of fabric in cones for the tree stump and branches and add more branches than you actually need. OR use ribbon to make your tree. The folded fabric gave it dimension and ribbon will be flat...it's up to you what you decide to use. Both will be fine...get creative and use whatever else you conjure up creatively. Also, if you want you can use thin pieces of actual tree --- you'll just have to omit the glass in this case. Hmmm on second thought...scratch that idea. It's not such a great idea after all, as it will be hard to dust without destroying it in the process! :(  Ugh! LOL!!
3. Using glue...add all your pieces to your frame background.
4. If you want, you can add a layer of Mod Podge™  to give it some shine and protection.
5. Then, begin to add the typed family names in place with glue.
6. Replace glass, hang, enjoy, and smile at your accomplishment or do the latter and also give as a wonderful family gift!

Cost to make: <$15.00 if you use a coupon to discount the cost of the frame or about $20.0 if you don't use coupons!

Handmade ensures memories that last a lifetime!