Projects

Allover Stenciling

Project Overview

Stenciling is one of the oldest techniques for decorating walls. Before the mid-1800s, stenciling was actually less expensive than wallpaper. Now, even though wallpaper is economical, there are still good reason's to opt for an allover stencil pattern: You have complete control over color choice, you can create your own unique design, and you can customize the look to suit your style. The key to stenciling is to properly line up the pattern by establishing vertical and horizontal lines. Use a level with printed ruler or a laser level for easy measuring. When stenciling, avoid overloading the brush with paint. Too much paint causes bleeding underneath the stencil and results in a heavy-looking finish. Instead, blot the brush onto a paper towel, and then pounce or stipple the paint into the stencil cutout using a circular motion. A cloudy, translucent appearance is the desired effect.

3 Steps

DRAW A STRAIGHT VERTICAL LINE
DRAW THE REGISTRATION MAKRS ONTO THE WALL
STENCIL ONE HORIZONTAL ROW

Step 1

DRAW A STRAIGHT VERTICAL LINE

For a perfectly aligned stencil pattern, establish a straight vertical line in the middle of your wall with the level. Draw a light line from ceiling to floor using a graphite pencil or a green colored pencil. This stencil is actually one-quarter of the pattern. The repeating pattern is made by stenciling the single repeat in for different positions, creating a mirror image. Spray the stencil with adhesive and position it on the wall, lining up the registration marks on the stencil with the vertical line drawn. Begin stencilling by dipping a medium-sized stencil brush into the Capri latex paint, then blotting most of the point onto a paper towel. Stipple the brush over the stencil, pouncing in several layers to add more color. Use a circular motion to give the image dimension. In this step, the Capri paint is not stencilled solid, but lightening some areas and darker in others. With a separate stencil brush, stipple a little Big Sur Blue paint into the stencil for shadows.

DRAW THE REGISTRATION MAKRS ONTO THE WALL

Step 2

DRAW THE REGISTRATION MAKRS ONTO THE WALL

Use a pencil to make registration marks on the wall, or simply stencil the marks onto the wall. Penciled registration marks can be erased later. Remove the stencil and flip it over, lining it up below the previously stencilled area. (If you can rub any paint off the stencil with your finger, clean it fist with denatured alcohol, the paint should, however, dry almost instantly.) Use the previous registration marks as your guide for aligning the stencil with the vertical line. Stipple Capri latex paint through the stencil, avoiding solid coverage. With a medium-size brush, add a small amount of Big Sur Blue latex paint as an accent. Repeat until the first vertical row is complete, flipping the stencil as you go.

Step 3

STENCIL ONE HORIZONTAL ROW

Draw a horizontal line, lining up with one set of registration marks, to establish the placement of the horizontal line on the wall. Extend this line all the way across your wall. Stencil one horizontal row, using the horizontal level line and the previous registration marks as your guide. Refer to the picture that comes with the pattern to ensure correct positioning of the repeat. Apply the Capri and Big Sure Blue paints as in step 2. Repeat steps 1-3 to cover the wall on both sides of the vertical line marked in step 1. Remove any remaining tape and allow to dry.

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Project Details

Skill Level: Intermediate

Time: 4 hours

Before you start, read this »

Due to differing conditions, tools, and individual skills, The Home Depot® assumes no responsibility for any damages, injuries suffered, or losses incurred as a result of attempting to replicate any of the home improvement ideas portrayed in this website Before beginning any home improvement project, review it thoroughly to ensure you or your contractor can finish the project and if any doubts or questions remain, consult local experts or authorities. Because codes and regulations vary greatly, you always should check with authorities to ensure that your project complies with all applicable local codes and regulations. Always read and observe all of the safety precautions provided by any tool or equipment manufacturer, and follow all accepted safety procedures.

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