Shrink Plastic, Acrylic Dabbers & Masks

Well back with another fun project ~ we're going to be combining shrink plastic, Ranger's acrylic dabbers and masks (or diecuts). For my examples I made bracelets but depending on the size they can be turned into charms, earrings, necklaces, etc.

Supplies:

Grafix Shrink Film - Black & Clear

Ranger Acrylic Dabber

Mask or Die-Cuts

Acrylic Sealer (Krylon Crystal Clear, Patricia Nimocks's Spray Sealer, etc.)

Heat Source (oven or heat gun)

Jewelry Findings (if you're making the bracelets or other jewelry)

Instructions:

1. Determine how large you want your finished charm/bracelet to be. I figured I wanted something between 2 1/2 - 3 1/2" so I needed to start off with a piece of shrink film approx. 5-7". Once you have determined how large your finished project will be you can cut your die-cut to size or find a mask that suits your needs.

2. Affix the mask or die-cut to the shrink film using a reposition able adhesive. Punch holes where needed. I used 1/2" hole punch for a couple of the charms since I knew I'd need larger holes for my choice of findings otherwise a regular hole punch will do.

3. Apply the paint to the entire piece ~ make sure you hit the edges of the die-cut/mask good so you have a nice defined line once it's shrunk.

here is what it should look like once you're finished painting....

4. You may let the paint dry completely or continue immediately. Remove the mask from the shrink film.

5. Heat the shrink plastic with a heat gun or shrink it in the oven.

6. (optional for bracelet) Immediately after the shrink film is done doing it's thing, place the hot charm over a spray can (the sealer can works fine) and let it cool. You're going for a nice gentle bend here to form around your wrist.

(sorry ~ no pic ~ couldn't bend and photograph at the same time - lol!)

7. After it has cooled, spray with a coat or two of the spray sealer. This just helps protect the paint from dents, dings and scratches from normal use.

And here you go.....

(sorry for the light glare)

Now that you've got the base made you can add a variety of findings to turn it into a bracelet....

Of course if you don't want a bracelet you don't have to bend it...you can use it flat for a charm. 

Now, if you like these bracelets ~ let me know and you might be the new owner of one of these little devils!! All you have to do is post and you'll be entered to win.

You have until 5-24 to post at which time I'll draw 3 winners using Random.org!

Good Luck and remember ~you can't win if you don't post!!