I know what you’re thinking. And no, I’m never going to stop with the gold leaf DIYs. It’s the best thing in the world, so just get on board you guys. Okay, glad we had that talk.
Now! I found myself recently bemoaning the fact that my mousepad was old and icky and had seen waaaay better days. It still functioned, but man did it look gross. So it was retouch time. If you’ve got an old mousepad that needs a little zhush (how do you spell that?) or a mousepad that just ain’t cute, this is the DIY for you. Gather your materials:
- old mousepad
- enough suede (or leather, or faux leather — you get the idea) to cover the mousepad
- scissors
- pen
- freezer paper
- hole punch
- iron
- ModPodge
- gold leaf
- two craft paintbrushes
- spray adhesive
Start by tracing your mousepad onto the backside of your suede, and cutting it out. Set that aside. Punch holes in your freezer paper and cut a small square around each hole. Place them strategically on the front side of your suede, and iron them shiny side down so that they stick.
Next, use a paintbrush to paint ModPodge inside of each hole. While it’s wet, apply a small patch of gold leaf. Pat the gold leaf down with a dry paintbrush.
Let the ModPodge dry for about 30 minutes and carefully remove the freezer paper, being careful to keep the edges of the polka dot intact. Let the glue dry overnight before you use the mousepad, and be sure to dust off all remnants of the gold leaf, to keep your mouse safe.
Finally, cover the back of the suede with spray adhesive and affix it to your old mousepad. Be sure that you match the edges well before you press firmly.
Woah! So much better. And now it’s like a little polka dot party every time I use my computer. Have fun! xoxo
I could totally see this in a top decor shop with a hefty price tag! Very cool and stylish!! I don’t even think I have a mouse anymore because I have a MAC now, but Ooo I might make one of these for my Mom for her birthday. She still uses a mouse! Thanks for the idea!! =)
that is the cutest mouse pad i’ve seen! i definitely want to diy this
Yay, do it! It’s so quick and easy. I love the simple ones.
This is really great!!
So glad you like it Grace! xo
Adorable! What a way to add a little luxury to your desk
I love it. Such a creative way to jazz up one of the ugliest things about computing! Can’t wait to join the polka dot party myself!
x Elena @ Randomly Happy
Love that you made such an everyday object so fun!
This is just adorable and so very chic!
Thanks for sharing!
love the idea! and for sure I will never get bored by your wonderful gold(en) posts * all the best JULIA
Just curious–do you think you could get the same effect for even cheaper by using gold nail polish to paint the dots on? I wonder if it would last?
I’m sick of this DIY nonsense. I just want to buy it! hehe
srsly!
This is super cute!
So creative! Can’t wait to try it. Thank you!
I’d been eying up a super expensive one just like, I LOVE this DIY. Amazing job (and thanks for saving me $$).
Christine
Brilliant!
I need to make this! Or can I buy yours, it’s perfect haha! Super cute.
How lovely!
Thanks for charing.
// Ann-Charlotte from Pouf! Magazine
i adore this, and of course you cannot get over the joy of gold leaf! i love your accessories as well!
I love everything about this. The mouse pad, bracelet, watch and your pretty nails!!!
Totally not related to the mouse pad but may I ask what color is your nail? I love it!
this is sooo cute! and definitely looks expensive. i almost wish i had a desktop computer so i could make one! but then would i do with all the crap on my desk? i guess i’ll stick to the macbook
Beautiful!
beautiful idea! wow, love it