There are many different types of DIY art projects. Art is, at its heart, a do it yourself type of activity. From painting to sculpture to glass blowing, all artists typically do their art themselves. Most people looking for DIY art projects are more interested, however, in art that can be displayed in the home and made cheaply. These types of projects are also numerous and may involve found or recycled materials put together in simple but attractive ways.
Some of the most common DIY art projects involve paper, both printed and plain. Framing unusual images, making collages, and otherwise selecting pictures one finds attractive can make great DIY wall art. Anything can be framed, including wallpaper, postcards, and the patterned side of security envelopes. DIY art projects using paper are not only about selecting the right pictures, but also about choosing the best presentation as well. One way to make this type of wall art more attractive is to spray paint all the frames being used the same color.
Found items can make great DIY art materials. Anything found at a thrift store can be painted, and anything that is painted can be art. Painting vases, lamps, pots, and other solid items may take a little experimentation but can yield great results. Breaking down used plates and using them for mosaics can be very attractive, and sewing together different parts of old clothing can yield beautiful fabric art. The key to this type of art is seeing old items not for what they are but for what they could be.
Children can also make a number of DIY art projects involving age-appropriate materials and tools, sometimes requiring adult assistance. Gluing buttons and sequins is always a favorite with children, as is anything involving making a mess. Finger painting and play dough are perhaps the most classic children's DIY art projects, but many more possibilities exist. For example, making sock puppets out of scraps, alligators out of laundry clips, and decorating old hats can all make excellent DIY projects that do not require much monetary investment.
DIY art projects are as versatile as the artists making the projects. Any material can become part of an art project, and the finished result is limited only by the artist's talent and dedication. In order to explore the different types of DIY art projects, it may be best to start by looking at arts and crafts books or online at DIY art sites. One may find that ideas for art projects are inspired by looking at all the many kinds of DIY art that already exist.