DIY Family Tree

My in-law's golden anniversary is on the horizon so I decided to create a family tree to give them as a gift. This customizable gift is an easy DIY project that can be completed over the course of a few days. Here is how it is done.

Materials needed:

  • canvas (at least on that is at least 11x14)
  • 2 different colors of acrylic paint in 2 oz.containers (I chose blue and gold)
  • 2 different colors/styles of scrapbook paper
  • a bird punch
  • scissors
  • acrylic paint pen
  • Mod Podge
  • fine point or calligraphy style pen
  • paintbrushes of various sizes

Procedure:

  1. Paint the canvas with the background color you have selected. I chose a blue to represent the sky and horizon. Depending on the color chosen, this make take 2-3 coats of paint to achieve a nice solid coat.
  2. Paint a tree with the other color of acrylic paint. I chose gold since it is for a 50th anniversary gift. Apply at least 2 coats to make the tree stand out.
  3. Using a bird punch and piece of light colored scrapbook paper, cut out enough birds to represent each person in the family. I cut out birds to represent my mother-in-law, father-in-law and their children and grandchildren.
  4. Using a fine point or calligraphy pen, carefully write one name on each cut out bird.
  5. Carefully cut a heart shape out of the other color of scrap paper small enough to fit into the trunk of your tree.
  6. Using an acrylic paint pen, write the family name and the year it was established on the canvas.
  7. Attach the heart to the center of the tree trunk using Mod Podge.
  8. Attach the birds to various branches on the tree using Mod Podge. I placed the parents on top and their children and grandchildren on the lower branches.
  9. As soon as the heart and birds are in place, put a thick coat of Mod Podge on top of the entire canvas.
  10. Allow the canvas to dry overnight.
  11. Place an additional coat of Mod Podge on the canvas to seal the project.