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DIY Quote Artwork: Create Custom Typographic Wall Art with Watercolors and Gold Foil

Introduction

One of my favorite parts of the monthly Happy Mail from A Beautiful Mess is the typographic artwork included. Whether large or small, these pieces feature minimal backgrounds with inspiring quotes and calls to action. I proudly display them in my home and office—wall space is running out fast!

A Beautiful Mess isn't alone in this trend; Paper Source offers similar word-focused art prints. If you love this style but want to personalize it with your own quote, it's simple to DIY. Choose your background (I used watercolor paints for a soft wash), then elevate it with gold foil transfer letters from the scrapbooking aisle at your local craft store. With various fonts, sizes, and styles available, your piece will be truly unique.

Step 1

DIY Quote Artwork: Create Custom Typographic Wall Art with Watercolors and Gold Foil

Paint your background

To prep your canvas, paint the background. Using watercolor paper, I covered mine in shades of blue for a serene effect.

Step 2

DIY Quote Artwork: Create Custom Typographic Wall Art with Watercolors and Gold Foil

Flatten your paper

Let the paint dry completely. To flatten the watercolor paper, I stacked heavy books on top until it was perfectly smooth.

Step 3

DIY Quote Artwork: Create Custom Typographic Wall Art with Watercolors and Gold Foil

Add transfer letters

Cut out your quote from the transfer letter set. Peel off the paper backing, position the letters on your background, and rub each one firmly with a bone folder or wooden stick.

Step 4

DIY Quote Artwork: Create Custom Typographic Wall Art with Watercolors and Gold Foil

Remove the transfer sheet

Check each letter multiple times to ensure full adhesion. Peel away the transfer sheet to reveal the gleaming gold letters. Your artwork is now ready for framing and display.