Become the “Star” of Your Own Masterpiece
Give an old print some personal pizzazz by transforming it into your very own self-portrait!
With paint pens, some imagination, and loads of fun, this DIY project is one for the ages—and will keep you smiling for ages, too!
Here’s how:
1. Curate your creation by cruising the collections at Goodwill
All Goodwill nonprofit retail stores have wonderful collections of framed prints, photographs, and even original paintings from unknown individuals. As we always encourage you, look beyond a piece’s current appearance because with a little vision and a couple of dollars, you can create your very own masterpiece.
During a recent Goodwill shopping adventure, this good-sized, nicely framed reprint featuring a little boy holding a small dog caught my attention. The little dog’s heart-warming eyes and sweet face reminded me of my own BFF Tiptoe, with her cute and spunky self. While not my artistic style, I did think I could give it some whimsical updating and refreshing, so into my cart it went!
Turns out the original is a creation by Arthur William Devis (1762-1822), an English painter of many historical paintings and portraits. This one with the boy and his dog was created in the late 18th century. Prints of it were very popular, so much so, that one vintage print of the artwork was even exhibited at the New York World’s Fair in 1939—and chosen as the public’s favorite!
Expert Tip #1
If you see something you like at Goodwill, even if it might be a little more than you want to spend, take it home anyway. If you think about it later, it might not be at the store when you return, something I have learned the hard way! This portrait caught my eye when I first came into the store, but it was a couple of dollars more than I had hoped. And after walking by it three or four times and picking it up twice, I finally gave in and “splurged.” It was so worth it!
Expert Tip #2
All picture frames—and the artwork inside—are easily transformed with paint. Do you like the frame but it’s not in your color palette? Take it home and spray paint it—and easy, inexpensive solution. Appreciate the artwork inside? Tweak it with paint pens, collages, and markets to give it some of your own style flair. Once, I simply painted an image’s very small white dog with orange to look like the pretty pooch I had at the time. It took one minute to do with a big payoff!
2. Reimagine, refresh with paint pens—& new eyes
Paint pens are a super simple, low-cost way to give an old art piece some new interest and energy.
Start your portrait’s transformation by using a pencil to sketch in changes as a guide. Here are some components for your consideration:
A. Personalize your pup
Since the dog’s face reminded me of Tiptoe’s, this is where the transformation began. I sketched out her ears with a pencil. Paint pens in matching colors were used to add her wiry coat, bushy eyebrows, and collar.
What are the unique features of your furry family member you might want to add?
B. Duplicate how you dress
The little boy got blue glasses with bright green accents as well as blue eyes, just like yours truly. A favorite baseball cap, blue sneakers, and even a hoodie were added. (I’ve never looked better!) Do you have pierced ears or a tattoo? How about a watch to wrap around “your” wrist? Include them, of course!
C. Add interesting accents
The original portrait had some dark flowers in it, so they were refreshed as sunflowers—my favorite! On one of the leaves now is a cheerful ladybug adding her shape and style to it. Do you like butterflies or caterpillars? Draw them. What about tulips? Include a bloom or two. Fond of ferns? Paint some.
At the boy’s feet, there is a globe and a can of paint brushes. You might add a basketball if that is your thing, or perhaps a stack of books by your favorite authors. What brings you joy? Find ways to incorporate them.
D. Brighten up the background
The Eiffel Tower was drawn in the distance. The sky was brightened up with yellow highlights. A pair of deer are in the background, too, keeping an elegant eye on things.
3. Give it a new name
Now that your transformed/upcycled/reimagined portrait has been brought up-to-date and full of personality, it’s time to give it a new name to reflect its new look and life. For me, this was an easy step, so I now call it, “Tim & Tiptoe Together,” as I love alliterations.
4. Display with delight
Your reimagined, colorful, and whimsical portrait will be a charming conversation piece wherever you place it. Add a small lamp, a complementary colored vase, and other interesting decorative items to add visual delight to your piece (and they are all available at Goodwill, too, for low, low prices.)
“Tim & Tiptoe Together” currently welcomes all who come into my home, standing joyfully on the mantel. Written by ChatGPT, here’s a poem that helps to tell its new story:
Tim & Tiptoe Together
A boy in blue glasses, cap stitched with LOVE,
Stands smiling with Tiptoe, the pup he’s proud of.
A hot pink collar, a gaze full of grace—
Together they brighten the gardened space.
A ladybug crawls, two deer appear near,
The Eiffel Tower dreams quietly here.
A globe shares a message, bold and true,
That beauty and God shine in all we do.
The paint can stands ready, brush in hand,
A world being shaped by heart, not plan.
A portrait reborn, not trapped in the past—
A joy-filled reminder: Love always lasts.
Similar Reads:
- DIY: How to Upcycle Mannequins into Pride Art Pieces – Finding Your Good
- DIY: How to Upcycle a Mirror to Reflect Your Pride – Finding Your Good
Tim Kime
Artist, Motivational Speaker, Life Coach
