Hi everyone,
I'm excited to share with you my latest project, which is a series of watercolour paintings on recycled MDF wood blocks. I got this idea from Claire Chandler, who is a talented artist and a friend of mine. She suggested using MDF wood as a base for painting because it is a sustainable and affordable material that can be reused and recycled.
MDF stands for medium-density fibreboard, which is made from wood fibres that are bonded together with resin and wax. It is widely used in furniture, flooring, and construction. However, it is also a source of waste and pollution, as millions of MDF boards are produced and discarded every year. According to Unilin Group², recycling MDF can save wood from combustion, avoid CO2 emissions, and give wood fibres a new life as high-quality boards².
I cut them into 15cm squared pieces and sealed them with a watered down mix of PVA glue to protect them against moisture. Then I attached watercolour paper to the pieces of wood with PVA glue and left them to set with the added weight of a book on top. This created a smooth and sturdy surface for painting.
To make the blocks look more attractive, I painted the sides with white acrylic paint. Then I was ready to paint on the paper with watercolour. I chose local scenes from Morden Hall Park, Reigate Hill, and other landscapes from the local areas. I wanted to capture the beauty and diversity of nature in my paintings.
To finish the project, I fixed D rings to the back of the blocks so they can be easily hung on the wall. They make a lovely alternative to framing and add a rustic charm to any room.
I hope you enjoyed reading about my project and seeing some of the pictures. If you are interested in trying this technique yourself, you can find more information and inspiration on Claire Chandler's website (link). You can also check out some of the products made from recycled MDF wood on Unilin Panels' website (link).
Thank you for your support and stay tuned for more updates on my art journey!
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