Save Your Buttons

Old buttons don't have to be thrown away. You can now save them and create a unique wreath. We have provided complete instructions on how to make a decorative wreath.

Materials:

• STYROFOAM Brand Foam:
  • Wreath, 12" x 1"
• Faux finishes: green patina gold metallic
• Several packages of gold craft buttons, assortment
• Ribbon: Gold wire-edged, 1" x 1/3 yd.
• Paintbrushes: 1" stiff; disposable sponge
• Disposable palette
• Thick, white craft glue
• Water basin
• Soft, clean rag
• Scissors
• Paper towels
• Low-temp glue gun and glue sticks

Steps:

1. Follow manufacturer's instructions to paint foam wreath gold; let dry. Apply second coat. Before second coat dries completely, apply light coat of patina finish. Let dry.
    
2. Glue buttons to wreath, covering surface. Glue a smaller second layer over first for added visual interest, if desired. Let dry.
    
3. Apply light coat of gold finish over buttons. While finish is still wet, gently wipe buttons with soft rag to expose button texture and remove excess finish. Let dry.
    
4. Apply light coat of patina finish. If desired, gently wipe wet finish with soft rag to expose more gold tones.
    
5. Tie ribbon around top of wreath. Knot ends to create hanging loop.

®™ Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company ("Dow") or an affiliated company of Dow. For more project ideas, please see styrofoamstyle.com.