Father's Day Art

Father's Day Art: A Unique DIY Gift Using Hardware Store Finds

Father's Day is just around the corner, and if you’re looking to move beyond the traditional tie or coffee mug, it’s time to get creative! 

This year, we’re making a high-texture, meaningful piece of art that involves a little bit of upcycling and a lot of heart.

The best part? 

We’re using the kids' hands to make it a true "handmade" masterpiece.

The Secret Ingredient: Tile Spacers!

You might be looking at these little white crosses and wondering, “What are those?” 

While wandering the aisles of the hardware store a few weeks ago, I stumbled upon tile spacers. 

Usually, these are hidden behind ceramic tiles to keep grout lines straight, but I fell in love with their geometric shape. I knew I had to put them to use in a completely different way.

Materials You’ll Need

• Two matching frames: I found mine at a local thrift store.

• Tile spacers: One or two packs (depending on the size of your frame).

• White poster board: To create a clean, crisp background.

• Hot glue gun and glue sticks.

• Paint/Paper for handprints: To add that personal touch.

Step-by-Step Guide to Texture Art

1. Prepare Your Canvas

The original dark cardboard backing on the frames didn't work for this project. I swapped it out for a white poster board to give it a sturdier base.

2. Layout the Puzzle

Before gluing, I started playing with the spacers to find the perfect grid. 

It’s a lot like solving a puzzle—very therapeutic!

3. Glue Line-by-Line

Using a hot glue gun, I began setting the first row. I worked those tiles two-by-two, alternating horizontally and vertically to create a woven texture.

• The Process: Line by line, closing in the space.

• The Progress: 

Halfway there.

Two by two.

Closing in the space.

Until it was done! Tons of texture.

4. The "Artist's" Signature

Once the textured background was complete, it was time for the guest stars: the kids' hands.

We captured their handprints to symbolize their role in "building" a life with Dad. 

I then glued the second frame on top to create a shadow-box effect that protects the texture and adds depth.

The Finished Masterpiece

Voila! Dad’s recognition is complete. The end result is a sophisticated piece of 3D art that looks like it belongs in a boutique but carries the sentimental value of a handmade gift. 

Pro Tip: If you actually have a pending tiling project at home, this frame serves as a stylish (and cheeky) reminder for Dad to finish that bathroom floor! 😅

The idea for the hands-down came from this site.

They have many more fabulous Father's Day ideas!

Happy Father's Day to all the amazing dads out there!