| Forget what you think you know about stenciling I | | | | own stencils, trace a design onto a piece of |
| tell homeowners around the Minneapolis area. | | | | acetate, and cut out the appropriate panels with a |
| Stencils no longer come as simple cut shapes that | | | | stencil-cutting knife or an exacto blade. For best |
| look unattached when painted, modern stenciling | | | | results create multiple layers for the object you |
| has become so elaborate it even challenges | | | | are stenciling. For example, a rose could have |
| experienced faux painters. Modern day stencils | | | | petals that overlap the stem rather than |
| are much more sophisticated. I recently stenciled | | | | remaining unattached off in space. You could even |
| an elaborate grape vine over some kitchen | | | | visit local Minneapolis faux painter supply stores |
| cupboards. The stencil I was using came in 6 | | | | for ideas. You may even find something you like |
| parts with 3 layers each! Each stencil seamlessly | | | | for purchase. |
| adjoined to the next. The grape vine was perfect | | | | To paint with stencils, I'd recommend using latex |
| for this kitchen. | | | | paint or artists paints. Choose your colors carefully |
| Faux painters can alleviate many design problems. | | | | and keep them within reach. Next, tape your |
| If you are looking to redecorate a small room | | | | stencil to the surface to be painted. For stenciled |
| with high ceilings, a nice stenciled border will help | | | | borders I'd recommend a chalk line to keep things |
| create the feel of a larger room, horizontally. Turn | | | | straight. Grab your stencil brush. Dab the brush |
| the stencil vertically and you'll remedy the | | | | into your color. Now 'offload' most of the paint |
| opposite problem. If your décor calls for | | | | from the brush onto a paper towel. Why? You'll |
| patterns, forget the wallpaper. Patterned stencils | | | | apply the paint in circular movements over the |
| are the perfect alternative. | | | | stencil, too much paint and you're colors will bleed |
| Purchasing high quality stencils is hard to come by | | | | through past the borders of the stencil. Allow |
| at local craft stores. I haven't seen many I could | | | | each layer to dry before attempting any overlay |
| offer my clients, at least not in Twin Cities stores. | | | | stenciling. This will allow for greatest results! |
| If I were you, take a trip online. To make your | | | | |