If you’re looking for a fun and easy Valentine’s Day craft, these heart-shaped photo holders are a perfect choice. They make adorable decorations, sweet gifts, and an easy way to add a personalized touch to your space. Plus, they’re made with simple materials and don’t require any special artistic skills.
I love DIY projects that look impressive but are actually super simple to make. That’s exactly why these photo holders are a winner. With just some plaster, a silicone baking mold, and a few creative painting techniques, I was able to make a set of unique and colorful holders that look like something from a boutique gift shop.
Why This Project?
- Easy & affordable. You’ll see why.
- Adds a personal, handmade touch to your decor or makes a thoughtful DIY gift.
- Three unique painting methods let you experiment with textures and colors for a one-of-a-kind result.
- Anyone can do it, whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out.
- The plaster sets in just a few hours, so you get to enjoy the finished product the same day.
- Ideal for Galentine’s Day parties, or even as a fun activity with kids.
Materials You’ll Need
- White plaster – 500 g (available at craft or hardware stores)
- Water – 230 ml
- Silicone baking mold – heart-shaped ones work best
- Paper clips, popsicle sticks, or wooden skewers – for holding photos
- Acrylic paint – pink, red, purple, or any colors you love
- Shaving foam, rice, and napkins – for unique painting effects
- Paintbrushes, mixing bowl, gloves – to keep things clean and easy
Step 1: Mixing and Pouring the Plaster
Working with plaster is simple, but you have to move quickly because it sets faster than you think. Believe me, I know…
Mix the plaster with water in a 500 g to 230 ml ratio. Stir until smooth—like thick yogurt. Too runny? It’ll be fragile. Too thick? It won’t pour well.
Pour the mixture into the mold, tapping it lightly on the table to remove air bubbles. Pro Tip: Want a smoother finish? Lightly spray the mold with water before pouring in the plaster. This helps prevent air bubbles from forming on the surface.
If using paper clips, bend one side and stick it into the plaster. For a clip-on option, push in a painted popsicle stick—later, you can glue a tiny clothespin to it. No clips? Twist a small wire loop and place it in the wet plaster.
Even though an hour is usually enough, let it dry for several more hours.
Once your plaster hearts have fully dried, sand them using fine fine-grit sandpaper.
Step 2: Painting the Heart Holders
This is the fun part. Instead of just using a paintbrush (which works but is kinda boring), I experimented with three creative techniques to get cool, unique patterns.
Method 1: Painting with Rice
This method creates a random texture that looks kinda fun.
Pour uncooked rice into a plastic bag, add a few drops of acrylic paint, and shake it up.
Drop the dry plaster heart into the bag and roll it around until the rice transfers some paint onto it. Take it out, shake off any loose rice, and let it dry.
This technique works best for subtle, speckled effects—if you want bolder colors, use more paint in the mix.
Method 2: Shaving Foam Marbling
If you want soft swirls and a marble effect, this is the way to go.
Spray a layer of shaving foam into a shallow dish. Add a few drops of different colored acrylic paints. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the paint around, creating a pattern.
Press the heart-shaped plaster holder into the foam, then carefully lift it out. Wipe off the excess with a napkin and let it dry.
The less you mix the paint in the foam, the stronger the swirls will be.
Method 3: Painting Through a Napkin
This technique creates a soft, watercolor-like blend of colors.
Wrap the dried plaster heart in a thin napkin, smoothing it out as much as possible. Dip a paintbrush in water, then in paint, and start dabbing over the napkin. Use different colors—red, pink, and purple blend beautifully.
Let it sit for a few minutes, then carefully peel off the napkin.
How to Use These Photo Holders
These heart-shaped holders are perfect for:
- Decorating your home for Valentine’s Day
- Giving as handmade gifts to friends, family, or your partner
- Displaying love notes, photos, or small cards
- A fun craft night activity with friends or kids
- If you’re planning a Galentine’s Day gathering, this could be a great DIY project for the group. Everyone gets to make their own, and no two turn out the same.