How to Make a Silhouette Art Piece

Overview
Step 1

A silhouette art piece is a timeless keepsake any recipient would enjoy. This project makes an ideal gift for Valentines Day, Mothers Day, or even a grandparent's birthday. Children who are 8 to 10 years old should be able to complete this project with a bit of help from a grown up.

What You'll Need
Step 1

You’ll need a flat-faced 5 by 7-inch wood frame, decorative paper, scrapbook embellishments, black card stock, white or cream 5 by 7-inch card stock, scissors, paper clips, double sided tape, and white glue. You’ll also need a digital camera.

Take a Profile Photo of the Child
Step 1

Take a profile picture of the child against a plain, light-colored background such as a white wall. Experiment taking photos looking up, straight ahead and down. Download the images into a computer, and play with the contrast in a photo-editing program. Darken and sharpen the silhouette until the shape is emphasized. Size the photo to fit a 5 by 7 frame. Print the photo on plain white paper.

Decorate the Frame
Step 1

Cut strips of scrapbook paper the same size as the sides of the frame; glue the paper to the frame. When the glue is dry, trim away any excess paper.

Add Embellishments
Step 1
Glue embellishments such as small flat-backed pearls or gems onto the paper-covered frame.

Tape the Silhouette to Black Card Stock
Step 1

Cut the silhouette down to a small, workable square that will be easy for the child to handle. Attach it to a piece of black card stock, using a small piece of double-sided tape and a few paperclips.

Cut Around the Photo
Step 1

Carefully cut around the outside edges of the image. (Younger children might need help with the face.)

Tape the Black Silhouette to Card Stock
Step 1

Put a few small pieces of double-sided tape on the back of the silhouette and press it onto to a 5 by 7-inch piece of white or cream- colored card stock.

Frame the Piece
Step 1
Insert the finished silhouette into the decorated frame.