Decorate your own switchplate

I saw some cool [but over priced!] switchplates at a street fair not too long ago and thought, "I bet I can make that!"  And I did! Here's a tutorial on how you can too! It's actually really easy and fun (& I'm now obsessed with mod podge).
To do it my way, you'll need:

• Switchplate (.26c at home depot) - Take out the screws and set aside
• A printed image (I chose to print it on the 3.5 x 5 size option on standard printer paper and it was nearly the perfect size)
• Mod Podge Acryllic Sealer (optional)
• Mod Podge (I used Gloss not Matte, Outdoor, Satin or Shimmer although you may decide you want to use one of these formulas for a different effect)
• Foam Brush, Baggie 
• X-acto Knife
• Pencil, Scissors and Patience

Decide on an image and print it out. After my first attempt at making these, I decided on using an acryllic sealer on the image first so that the colors wouldn't bleed when I started using the mod podge on it. Let it dry completely and then place the switchplate where you want it and trace it on the paper, adding about 1/2 inch margin all the way around to fold over the back. Cut it out.

Using a foam brush and working quickly, add a layer of Mod Podge to both sides of switchplate and to the back of the paper. Stick the paper to the switchplate and once you've centered it where you want it, fold the top/bottom/sides over the back. Mod Podge over the folded paper on back. Use your fingers or a smoothing tool to work out any wrinkles or bubbles. Note: Mod Podge goes on white but it dries clear. Let your project dry completely (I waited a few hours just to be sure).

Tip: Put your cover back on your Mod Podge container AND cover your foam brush with a baggie so they don't dry out between coats!

Fast forward to when your switchplate is ready for round two. Use your X-acto knife to poke out the screw holes & the switch hole. You may need to use a toothpick or other tool to 'carve' them out. I cut an "X" over the switch hole and folded back the paper. Use another layer of mod podge on both the front and back of switchplate and again, let it dry completely. (I let mine dry outside)

Repeat with as many layers of Mod Podge as you want. When it's done, put the screws back in. (Paint screws to match if you'd like!) I used the acryllic sealer again at the end for a final 'seal' although technically mod podge is already a glue, a sealer and a finish.

Here are my 3 of my finished switchplates.

Also feel free to check out these links I found for DIY switchplates from other talented crafters. They're all so different & so creative!

Martha Stewart
CraftElf
Design-Bug
The Steampunk Workshop
PinkChalkStudio
MySweetThings
JosieJones

Good luck and please send me pics of yours!
xoxoxo Hattie