Sprucing up a Store Bought Container

Recently Mom bought a paper mache type container that she is going to have filled with flowers for her secret sister (at her card club).  It was nice but I thought it would be fun to spruce it up a bit.

So, here is what it started out as....

Since it's going to be holding flowers we're going to first get rid of the tiny ribbon handle. 

Next, to give it a more vintage feel I applied Sepia Ink using my Ink Blending Tool to the entire container...even over the image.

I thought about adding a layer of clear micro beads to the image (because Mom LOVES them) but I figured since it was going to be filled w/flowers and handled quite a bit I'd go with something a bit more durable.   So I applied a layer of Stickles Glitter Glue to the image to give it a bit of pizazz. 

After the glitter was dry I decided to frame the image up by adding a bit of Dresden Trim around the edges. 

Really sets it off and makes it pop huh?

Remember the very inexpensive garland that I salvaged from the Big Lots Easter Decoration?   Well I thought the purple would make the violets in the image really pop so I added it to the top and bottom edge of the container using double sided sticky tape.

Then since it's going to house flowers I thought it would be nice to make a matching bow to add to them once it's finished.  I pulled out my Distress Stains and a bit of seam binding. 

Wet, ink and crinkle and I now have a pile of fun ribbon to use.
Notice the flowers - those are tiny white flowers that I used to soak up the excess ink left over on the craft mat.  Those will be great to use on another spring-y project!

And here it is ready for flowers...

I'm going to see if Mom won't take a pic of it filled before she gives it to her SS.   If she can I'll be sure to share it with you :)

So, if you're in the store and see an "average" decoration

remember you can always take a bit of time and spruce it up a bit to make it beautiful!