Printed Dry-Erase-Doodle Pillow

This project is a perfect way for kids to help make gifts for their parents. You can let their imaginations run wild with an expo marker in hand. Then, transform their doodles into prints that will last for years!

My niece and I had just as much fun making this project as we did giving it to her dad for his birthday. She especially loved watching the print develop in the sun! Prior to the tutorial, I asked her to draw a nice picture that we would make into a simple pillow. A baby and daddy dinosaur is what she came up with -- so cute!

All you need for this project is Inkodye, a glass plate (I got mine from a picture frame) and a black Expo marker. I recommend using Expo brand markers specifically because they block sunlight really well (you could also use a transparency instead of a glass plate).

 Aside from your dry-erase drawing, you'll also need a brush, light colored fabric for printing (cotton, linen, rayon, silk, etc. Be aware Inkodye only bonds permanently to natural fibers, so that means no polyester), and of course Inkodye!

We decided to use two Inkodye colors, Blue and Green, to create a color gradient. Start with your first color.

Cover half of your canvas with your first Inkodye color(or the whole thing if you just can't get enough)...then follow with your second color on the other half! 

Create a gradient between the two colors by going over the areas where they meet.

Collect the excess Inkodye on your canvas by wiping it with a paper towel. This step is necessary because you'll be covering the canvas with glass and excess dye can turn into condensation that can make your print spotty. You just want your piece to be a little damp to the touch, so don't be afraid to really wipe hard.

Place your image wherever you want! You can have the color gradient in the middle or more to one side. We were going for a grass and sky look in this one. Make sure you put drawing side of the glass down onto the fabric (don't worry, the dye won't ruin it) - if you put the drawing side side up your print will be blurry! 

Bring your creation out into the sun to begin the color development.

Within just a few minutes the colors will deepen. It's like magic! We left this project out for approximately 7 minutes.

Remove the glass plate to reveal your lovely print! To prevent further development of the dye throw your print in the wash with laundry detergent. We recommend using a hot water wash with Inkowash(our special formulated dye for removing Inkodye) and doing two washes, especially if using regular detergent. We want to make sure all the excess dye is removed so these childhood memories never fade!

Fresh out of the dryer, cut your fabric to the desired size of your pillow. Don't forget to leave an extra 1/2 inch on all sides!

Now you can put together your pillow! For instructions on how to sew a simple pillow click here.

Now you have an art piece that's not just confined to your fridge! This pillow is the perfect addition to a family room or a kiddie's bedroom.