Wall Stenciling

November 7, 2006

Style with stencils
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    Could the walls in your home use a splash of color? Would you like to add some character, but without spending a ton of money? Stencils are an easy and inexpensive way to make a quick, dramatic change to the look and feel of a room. And best of all, you don’t need to be an artist to stencil—anyone can do it!

A World of Possibilities
The possibilities for decorating with stencils are practically limitless and can enhance any décor. The rustic beauty of a French Country kitchen becomes even more stunning with stenciled grape vines on the walls; a regal pattern can add subtle elegance to a dining room; and large stenciled cartoon characters in a child’s bedroom makes it fun and inviting for play.

Be as simple or as complex as you want. Put a single colored pattern randomly here or there to create a focal point or to make a large room feel cozier. Or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, do a multi-colored pattern that’s intricately connected and covers your whole wall like wallpaper.

Simple Stencil Steps
p stencils Here’s a step-by-step guide to
get you started on a stenciling project.

MATERIALS
Ladder or step stool (if needed)
Acrylic, latex, or stencil paint
Stencil
Stenciling brushes
Painter’s tape
Pencil
Paper towels
Drop cloth

INSTRUCTIONS
  1. Find a stencil that reflects the personality of your room. You can find a wide variety of ready made stencils in craft or hardware stores—they often come with instructions.
  2. Choose colors of paint that complement your décor and furnishings. Any acrylic or latex paint is fine, but craft stores do sell paints specially made for stenciling. They have a consistent texture that prevents mistakes and creates a beautiful look when dry.
  3. Position your stencil where you want it on your wall.
  4. When you have your stencil positioned, keep it in place by taping at the top and bottom. Low tack tape is best because it’s easy to remove and shouldn’t pull paint off the wall.
  5. Using a special stencil brush, paint your wall through the stencil.

Tip: Have fun with your stencils and use them to decorate tabletops. You can also try stenciling plates and hanging them on the wall to make inexpensive art.

ubr body ed img ar060 Your Wall, Your Design
If you can’t find the perfect pattern, make your own! Find a pattern you like on some wallpaper or in a book – even draw your own. Photocopy the pattern to the size you want and tape it securely to a heavy piece of clear plastic or acetate. Carefully cut out the pattern using a craft knife, making sure to leave about an inch long border around the whole design. Clean up any rough edges so they don’t collect paint.

Tip: If stenciling your wall with a single, oversized image, select a piece with a large, well-defined shape and clean lines.

Less is More
The trick with stencils is to use as little paint as possible and build it up in layers. You’ll get a cleaner image because paint won’t seep or bleed under the edges of the stencil. Practice on a piece of cardboard or wood before you put your stencil on the wall—you’ll save yourself lots of headaches!

Trying to apply several colors at a time may be faster, but it increases the chances of error. If you plan to use multiple colors in your design, use tape to mask off the areas of the stencil you don’t want in a particular color.

Also, it’s best to use a real stenciling brush—they’re made with stiff, short bristles so they don’t bend and push paint under the stencil. Use either the lids of the paint jars or paper plates to hold your paint. Dab your brush into the paint, then dab it onto a paper towel to remove the excess.

Start painting from the outside edge of the stencil towards the center. Apply the paint using a light dabbing or tapping motion. It’s a good idea to wash your stencil in warm water every once in a while to avoid paint buildup.

In almost no time at all, your walls will look completely new, and you’ll notice that it also changes the atmosphere in your room.

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