DIY Decorative Light Switch Plate

This isn't a new idea, but I still wanted to share because I've had several people mention they'd never thought to do this. Basically I decided to Mod Podge scrapbook paper on to the light switch plates in the nursery. It was super easy, and I'm so pleased with how it turned out! I really think it's a nice decorative accent, and a cheap way to coordinate with your room decor.
I didn't take pictures as I went, but here are the basic instructions.

What you'll need:
-light switch plate
-Mod Podge (I used the gloss kind)
-scrapbook paper (wrapping paper would probably work, too)
-foam brush
-exacto knife or scissors
-pencil

1. Lay your light switch plate on the scrapbook paper, and trace around it with extra room on each side. I didn't worry so much about my tracing being straight because the excess is being folded around the back or can be cut off later if need be. Also be sure to account for extra space for the inside of the plate, not just the outer edges, since you'll be folding it in towards the center as well.

2. Cut out your shape, as well as the center part for the switch. I'm sure an exacto knife would work great for this, but I just used a small pair of scissors. I also cut a small slit at each corner where I was going to be folding the paper around the cover to make for an easier and cleaner fold.

3. Apply a layer of Mod Podge to the front of the light switch plate as well as a layer to the back of the paper. My mom taught me that tip, and it seems to make the paper lay better when both surfaces have Mod Podge on them rather than just one.

4. Place the paper on the light switch plate, and fold and position accordingly. This is also when I made the holes for where the screws would be inserted. For me, it was easier to do it with the paper on already (and Mod Podge still wet) then trying to line it up perfectly before gluing it on. I just used an ink pen to punch the holes through the paper.

5. Once it is dry, apply a layer of Mod Podge on top of the scrapbook paper. If desired, you can apply a second coat once the first coat dries. (I just did one coat.) Be sure to punch the screw holes through after each layer so the Mod Podge doesn't fill in the holes.

That is pretty much it! Just an FYI if you haven't worked with Mod Podge before: I would recommend doing this with a plastic bag underneath as the Mod Podge won't stick to that in such a way that it would cause your dried product to tear. It will with newspaper and paper towels...trust me on this one. :)

And a few more pictures...

I hope these directions make sense - some parts were a little hard to explain, but I think this should give you a general idea. If you make some, I'd love to see pictures! :)