The Art Of Stencils

The Art of Stencils will bring a designers touch to your room.

The French doors are dressed in a white silk tab top goblet pleat drapes, just gracing the sides. This treatment adds the right touch of elegance, leaving the focal point, "the walls".

Whether using a free hand technique or stencils; adding those special touches will give your room a personal look and feel.

There are several techniques for painting this raised design.

I used a solid color and rubbed the area slighly to remove the paint. This method highlights the design. You may want to use a paint extender if you are going to be working with the paint for any length of time.

If you choose to hand paint; for instance the leaf green and the stem brown,(of course it will depend on your design), I recommend Dry Brushing. Using this method will give you options on the color intensity. Check out the tips below.

1. After the area is dry lay your stencil over the design.
2. Using your dry brush load the paint and wipe off the excess. Never overload your brush. A little paint goes a long way. All the excess must be wiped away, we are only wanting subtle colors and you do not want the paint to run under the stencil.
3. If you have not practiced dry brushing, "stop!" and practice. Have a test piece to see what color intensity you wish to achieve. Always practice first; it will prevent tears of frustration.
4. Patience is your friend. The Repetitive work is easy and you may have a tendency to speed up the process. Take my advice, Slow and Steady will give you a job well done!
5. Be sure to seal the paint after a few days especially if it is in a location where frequent washing is a must.

I challenge you to learn this art form, it will inspire you and perhaps create an heirloom to pass down for generations to come.