Valentine’s Day is just over two weeks away, so even though it’s still January, I’m launching the season of V-Day DIYs early with a big, bold project.
I’ve developed a thing for oversized pieces lately—giant ampersands, large-scale holiday wall art, and similar projects—but I hadn’t tackled anything oversized for Valentine’s Day yet. Today I’m fixing that by showing you how to make a giant heart that works as a photo booth backdrop, a prop, or a dramatic piece of wall art you can display year-round.
This giant heart measures about three feet tall and is simple to make from foam core and a few basic supplies. It’s perfect for February photos with your partner, a friend, or even a pet, and it also doubles as bold home decor when the holiday’s over.
Supplies Needed:
One sheet of foam core at least 36 inches long, acrylic craft paint, a paintbrush, an X-Acto knife or box cutter, two saw tooth hangers (optional, if you want to hang it), strong craft glue, a pen or pencil, and a permanent marker.
How to Make the Giant Heart:
1. Use a pen or pencil to sketch a tall heart freehand on the largest foam core sheet you can find. Once you’re happy with the shape, trace over the lines with a permanent marker so they’re easy to see.
2. Carefully cut out the heart with an X-Acto knife or box cutter, working slowly and using a straightedge if needed for smoother curves. Make sure you have a safe cutting surface underneath.
3. Paint the entire surface with 2–3 even coats of acrylic paint. Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next so the finish looks clean and solid.
4. If you want to hang the heart as wall art, attach two small saw-tooth hangers to the back using strong craft glue or an appropriate adhesive. Let the glue cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before hanging.
The completed piece makes a striking backdrop or prop for photos, and it also works as standalone decor in an entryway, living room, or party space.
After Valentine’s Day, you can easily refresh the heart for year-round use. Paint it a neutral or bold non-Valentine color like black, teal, or navy to change the mood. Another option is to glue a black-and-white enlargement of a favorite photo to the heart and trim it flush with the foam core for a personalized, gallery-style look.
This project is inexpensive, lightweight, and adaptable, making it ideal for parties, photo shoots, or as creative seasonal decor. Would you use this giant heart as a photo booth backdrop, a handheld prop, or hang it as artwork?
Photography by Sarah Eddy. Concept and styling by Brittni Mehlhoff.