This Easter weekend, we're turning our hand to a spot of DIY with the help of Nicolette Tabram and her new book Modern Stencils. This stenciled cabinet is a great project to start you off. With just a lick of paint and a bit of love, you can transform an old piece of furniture into a real statement piece.
The stencil for this project works well on any size of cabinet; simply start at the center point of each panel and work outward, allowing the pattern to overlap the edges.
MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
cabinet
cloth
brushes for paint and varnish
blue furniture paint
matte finish water-based varnish
tape measure and pencil
spray adhesive or low tack tape
stencil brush
white stencil paint
1 ❘ Using the templates prepare the stencils.
2 ❘ Wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or greasy marks, and unscrew any handles. Apply two coats of furniture paint and let dry.
3 ❘ When the paint has dried, apply a coat of varnish to all painted surfaces and let dry.
4 ❘ Using a tape measure, find the center point on the top of the cabinet and lightly mark with a pencil. Measure both the width and depth for accuracy.
5 ❘ Lightly coat the back of Stencil 1 with spray adhesive. Position the stencil in the center of the surface and smooth down. Alternatively, tape it in position.
6 ❘ Dip the tip of the stencil brush into the stencil paint. Remove as much paint as possible on the side of the pot before applying in a circular motion through the holes.
7 ❘ Carefully lift the stencil, reposition, and continue until the whole surface is covered with pattern. Repeat the same process on the sides and door of the cabinet, starting from the center point each time.
8 ❘ Add the border around the outer edge of the door using the diamond stencil (Stencil 2). Turn the stencil 90 degrees to continue the pattern around the corners, overlapping the last painted diamond shape. You may need to play around with the positioning of the diamonds to fit your door. I increased the space between the shapes as I neared the end, in order to achieve a complete diamond on each corner.
9 ❘ Screw the handle back into position, then apply a final coat of varnish over the whole piece and let dry.
TIPS
For this project I used furniture paint, which can be applied directly onto varnished surfaces. Always remember to check the instructions on the can.
By sealing the paint with varnish before adding the pattern, it is possible to quickly wipe away any stenciled mishaps with a damp cloth.
For more stenciling tips, check out our blog on basic stenciling techniques.
For more stencil projects, check out Modern Stencils by Nicolette Tabram.