DIY Photo Backdrop: Spray Painted Bow Noodles
Check out the step-by-step process!
Photo: Crystal Downs
The idea for this fun and flirty photo backdrop came right outta the grocery store! All it takes to have one at your wedding is spray paint, dry bow tie noodles, and a little bit of elbow grease.
Photo: Crystal Downs
Materials
It's worth it to splurge a bit on gourmet noodles for this one, as they're often bigger and feature interesting textures. We bought two bags for $10, and we had more than enough noodles left over. Another important note: we used fishing line because we wanted the noodles to look like they were floating, but regular friendship bracelet string is much easier to manage. Picking a color that matches your wall will achieve a similar effect with much less headache, or you could go the contrasting route and opt for a string that stands out!
Before You Begin
You need to spray paint your noodles! We recommend using two shades in the same color family, and one light or metallic color for accent. Lay some newspaper down outside, then lay wax paper over top of it. Scatter noodles on wax paper so they're not overlapping, then apply an even layer of paint. Wait a few minutes for paint to dry, then flip noodles over and spray paint their other sides.
If necessary, do a second coat on each side—and be on the lookout for any crannies you might have missed!
Photo: Crystal Downs
Step One
Cut a 9' piece of fishing line. Leaving ample room at the top of the string, circle the string around the back of the first bow tie noodle and tie a knot around the noodle's center. Tie a second knot and pull taut.
Photo: Crystal Downs
Step Two
1.5" to 2" down from the first noodle, tie on a second noodle using the same process in step number one. If the noodle isn't laying flat or is too close or too far away from the first noodle, don't fret! You can adjust its position by "rolling" it up and down the string.
Photo: Crystal Downs
The noodle strand should look like this as it starts to take shape!
Photo: Crystal Downs
Step Three
Once you've completed a strand, tie it to the left end of a dowel hanger. This process is easiest if the dowel is already hanging on the wall, and you'll find instructions for building a simple and inexpensive dowel hanger right here.
Hang the next strand 3" to 4" away from the first, and repeat until you've reached the right end of the dowel. don't worry if spacing isn't perfect. The more casually arranged the noodles look, the better!
