Altered Key Tag Project...

Here's a really simple but pretty project idea for you!

The surface of the key tag is a sample piece of laminate that I had left over from choosing counter tops for our kitchen. You can find these at building supply stores - ask a service rep in the kitchen department if they have any discontinued samples you can have. They make excellent surfaces for decoupage, collage, etc. because they're already finished and durable on the one side, and the other side is porous but smooth to accept paint, glue, ink, etc.

The images I used are from my Charmed Butterflies 1 Collage Elements sheet. Find it here.


Here are the supplies you'll need...

1 - Sample piece of laminate (with hole at one end).
1 - Large key ring
1 - Small key ring
1 - 3/16 inch eyelet and eyelet tool
2 - Small finishing beads (optional)
1 - Small craft brush to apply adhesive
Adhesive - I used ModPodge
Background paper and images to fit tag.


Directions...

- Remove any product stickers if any, from the laminate sample (key tag) and lightly sand the unfinished side.

- Trace the key tag on to background paper and cut it out along with the images you've chosen.

- Generously apply a coat of ModPodge to the unfinished side of key tag and to the back of the background paper. Put in place and smooth out air pockets with fingers. Let dry for about 20 minutes.

- Trim away any edges that might be extending past the key tag and poke out the hole from the image side.

- Apply a coat of ModPodge to the back of the images and put in place. Again, smooth out air pockets with fingers. Let dry for about 20 minutes.

- Apply 2 to 3 finishing coats of ModPodge to key tag in all directions - left to right, right to left, etc.; this ensures complete coverage - don't forget the sides to keep paper from lifting. Don't worry if you get glue on the other side of key tag, it can be gently scraped off when dry. Be sure to allow proper dry time in between coats. Let dry over night after final coat.

- Attach the eyelet in the hole of the key tag.

- The small key ring attaches to the eyelet and the large key ring attaches to the smaller one for your keys. Sometimes when attaching the smaller key ring to the eyelet on the key tag, the ring separates a bit. I actually like it when that happens as I then add a small bead at the ends with super glue as a decorative, finishing touch.


There you go - easy-peasy! ;o) If you decide to make one, send me a picture - I'd love to see your key tag!

Happy Creating!