Because it is quite strong and affordable, cardboard is a good painting medium. If you are going to paint the entire surface of the cardboard or make cardboard art, don't forget to apply a primer to the surface of the cardboard so that the resulting color looks beautiful. After that, so that the cardboard does not bend, apply the paint in layers and dry as best as possible. In the end, you'll be producing a beautiful piece of art on cardboard!
Step
Method 1 of 3: Painting Using Acrylic
Step 1. Apply gesso paint as a painting base for a bright and striking color
Before starting to paint, use a flat brush to apply a thin layer of gesso paint to the surface of the cardboard. Apply gesso paint vertically and lengthwise. Cardboard is a material that absorbs paint so the color will fade. Therefore, gesso paint can bind the paint so it is not absorbed by the cardboard. In addition, gesso paint can also highlight the color of the painting.
Most gesso paints are white. However, if you want to use a different color, mix a few drops of acrylic paint with gesso paint to change the color
Step 2. Allow the gesso paint to dry for 24 hours, then apply a second coat
Apply a second coat of gesso paint as opposed to the first. This is done to produce a soft and even primer.
- Allow the gesso paint to dry again for 24 hours.
- If the cardboard is still visible, wait 24 hours and then apply a third coat of gesso paint.
Step 3. Smooth the surface of the cardboard using sandpaper with 500 grit if it is too rough
If the surface of the cardboard coated with gesso paint is too rough and can interfere with the painting process, you can smooth it using sandpaper. Gently rub the surface of the cardboard with sandpaper until all bumps and protruding lines are gone.
Do not press the sandpaper too hard so that the surface of the cardboard is not damaged
Step 4. Paint the cardboard using a dry brush or sponge so it doesn't bend
Cardboard will generally bend when exposed to water. Do not wet the brush or sponge before painting on the cardboard. Use a dry brush. If the brush feels stiff, flex the bristles with your fingers.
Because it requires water, watercolors are not a good choice for painting on cardboard. Choose acrylic paint or oil paint
Step 5. Apply the paint directly to the brush or sponge to prevent the cardboard from bending
Instead of removing paint on a cardboard surface, dip the brush in the paint or apply the paint to a sponge. By doing this, you can reduce the excess paint on the brush before you start painting. This can prevent the paint from seeping into the cardboard.
Step 6. Apply a light coat of paint to prevent the cardboard from bending
The less water that hits the cardboard, the less likely it is that it will bend. Apply as light a layer of paint as possible and allow it to dry completely before applying the next coat of paint. By doing this, the moisture produced from the paint can evaporate and not seep into the cardboard.
Step 7. Allow the paint to dry for 2 hours, then apply a second coat of paint
The first layer will probably look more transparent. However, instead of bending the cardboard, it's better to apply paint in layers. The more layers of paint on the cardboard surface, the more even and denser the painting will look. Keep applying new coats of paint until you are happy with the color.
Method 2 of 3: Using Spray Paint
Step 1. Choose a covered and ventilated area when using spray paint
Since spray paint is quite toxic, make sure there is good air circulation when using spray paint. Spray paint works best when applied in a warm, dry, covered area. If it's too cold, windy, or damp outside, spray paint in a well-ventilated garage or try another day.
Purchase spray paint at your nearest hardware or art supply store
Step 2. Place the scrap cloth under the cardboard to protect the floor
Spray paint is quite difficult to remove. Therefore, protect your workplace before starting.
If you don't have used cloth, tarpaulin or newspaper can be used as an alternative
Step 3. Shake the spray paint for 3 minutes
The color pigments in the spray paint will separate over time. Therefore, shake the spray paint to bring the color pigment back together. This can help keep the spray paint color gradient even when applied to the cardboard surface.
Shake the spray paint for 10 seconds every hour to allow the paint to escape easily from the nozzle
Step 4. Hold the spray paint at a distance of 30 cm from the surface of the cardboard, then spray gently
If the spray paint is too close to the cardboard, the paint will build up, causing the cardboard to bend. It's best to hold the spray paint until it is level with the cardboard. Apply spray paint in the desired pattern.
- Try using zigzag, polka-dot, and circle patterns. Express your creativity!
- Do not apply spray paint to the same area of cardboard twice. This can build up too much paint and the cardboard will bend.
Step 5. Wait for 2 hours, then apply a second coat of paint
Make sure the cardboard is completely dry before applying the second coat of paint. This is done so that the cardboard does not bend.
- Try using different colors to create contrast in the painting.
- If you want to apply a third or fourth coat, let the cardboard dry for 2 hours first.
Method 3 of 3: Making Art on Cardboard
Step 1. Paint the landscape on the cardboard to create a realistic painting
Landscapes are a lot of fun when you paint because you have so many colors to choose from. Decide whether you want to paint a sunset, a sunny day, or a storm. Draw the desired scene and then paint using acrylic paint or oil paint.
- If you need inspiration, find a photo of a landscape you like and try to replicate it.
- Also paint animals, people, or plants to make the painting more unique. Unleash your imagination!
Step 2. Decorate the cardboard using fingerprints
Finger painting is a fun way to decorate cardboard for kids. This activity can also keep him fun for hours. Fill a small container with paint of various colors and then let the child dip his finger in the container. After that, let the child put his finger on the surface of the cardboard.
Since finger painting is a messy activity, make sure you protect the area around the cardboard with newspaper
Tip:
Try painting animals like caterpillars, worms, giraffes and butterflies. You can also paint a tree on cardboard and help your child press his finger on a tree branch to create leaves.
Step 3. Paint the seascape on the cardboard if you like the color of the sea
The sea view is very beautiful and will never be boring. Choose a color that reflects the desired atmosphere. For example, choose a dark color to paint a stormy mood, or choose a light color to paint a bright and fun atmosphere.
To make the painting look more realistic, paint the sky first, then the sea
Step 4. Use the stamp to paint a unique pattern on the surface of the cardboard
Paint the surface of the stamp with acrylic paint. After that, stick the stamp on the surface of the cardboard. Clean the stamp with a damp cloth and then apply a new paint color. This will create a distinct and unique pattern on the surface of the cardboard. Use different stamps to create different patterns and scenes.
Purchase a stamp at the nearest craft store
Tips
- Place the paper under the cardboard to protect the floor or work area.
- Experiment with different cardboard textures to create unique paintings.
- Have fun and let the painting express your unique personality.
Warning
- Always supervise children when using spray paint.
- Use spray paint in a ventilated area.
