So, we’re always on the lookout for fun & quirky props to add into product photography and our decor in general. We both really like brightly hued vintage items, but unless you just luck out when finding them, they tend to be kind of expensive. Lately I’ve decided to start painting some cute little cheap items to use in photos. I already think painting is basically the answer for everything so I can’t believe I haven’t done this project sooner.

I bought a few little plastic toy animals at Walmart & Target and some unpainted wooden items at Hobby Lobby. I’m a huge fan of cheap DIY projects that are also quick so this was right up my alley. I bought a few small bottles of acrylic paint at Michael’s and used paint brushes I already had.

This project required practically no prep work after purchasing supplies which is always a bonus, if you ask me. I realized after I started that I forgot to buy red paint if you can believe it. So, I ended up using a really old bottle of acrylic paint that I’ve had forever (I mean really, FOREVER!). I really hope acrylic paint doesn’t expire and go bad since I love how the pink animals turned out, especially the lion below.

I just got out my soon-to-be props, paintbrushes, paint and a few Styrofoam plates and got to work.

Painting is probably my favorite because you really can create lots of DIY on the cheap with paint. And of course, paint can make nearly anything look cute & new again.

This would work so well for fun & funky decor. I like them so much, some, if not all will probably be staying out in the studio!

A few hours later I had a little menagerie of painted toy animals and tiny wooden bits & bobs.