You think I’m strange, don’t you? Don’t judge me until you see what this vintage baby can do. I realize I probably sound ancient considering that I remember being in a classroom with an overhead projector vs a new fancypants smartboard. But before you write this baby off, let me show you its potential for wanna-be artists like myself.
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We moved into our house at the time my daughter was transitioning into a “big girl” bed. She was also obsessed with birdies so after picking out the perfect bedding set for her, I decided her new room needed a tree. I wish I could say that I have the talent to draw her a big, beautiful tree but alas, I don’t. In the days before Pinterest (what did I do with all that free time?!), I googled for inspiration.
I found the perfect tree and had it printed at Kinko’s on a transparency….yes, they still make those! 
I borrowed an overhead projector from a friend and went to work tracing and painting. BTW, the birds are “free hand”….now you see my need for the projector!
My first overhead project went so well, that I decided I needed my very own overhead projector. Thankfully, I have connections and I’m now the proud owner of a Dukane 638. Yeah, baby!
My next project was inspired by this gorgeous hand-painted sign. She sells her beautiful signs so please check out her website. I wanted a very large sign and knew that shipping would be outrageous so again, my trusty overheard projector to the rescue. I love it! It brightens up my whole hallway.
Lessons learned….
- Kinko’s still prints transparencies and they are less than $1!
- Don’t use a pencil to trace your design. Covering up pencil lines with paint, especially white paint, is a pain in the a$$. Next time I’ll use chalk.
- If you are making wooden signs, The Home Depot will cut your wood to size for FREE!
The possibilities are endless! With a few dollars spent, some leftover paint and my trusty Dukane, I was able to create some beautiful faux art that I NEVER could have accomplished on my own.
Local friends, for a cupcake and a cup of coffee, I might be willing to share my projector with you.
Great job Michelle! Now I know where to go should I ever need an overhead projector.