Custom Decor Elements

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

19 Jan 2006 06:59 PM

Here's a fun idea for creating custom decor elements. Stencil and paint names or words onto canvas or other fabric and use these items as shower curtains, window treatments, and bedding. Continue the stencils onto the wall, furniture, lampshades, trashcans, and other accessories.

You can buy stencils or create your own on the computer by typing out words, letters, numbers, or names in different fonts. Print them off and cut them out to make stencils. Scissors may not work well for every cut, so you may need a penknife for some of the cuts. Be sure to place wood, heavy cardboard or some other protective material over surfaces before you begin cutting.

A cute idea for a playroom is to stencil ABCs and 123s around the room. Or, number the cabinets and drawers in big, bold numbers then post a list of which items are contained in each numbered space. Bright colors work great, especially primary colors.

In a child's rooms, stenciling his or her name or initials all over makes the space more personal. This works for small children and older children alike. For small children, letters in whimsical styles painted in bright colors will delight. For tweens and teens, a more graphic look is in order. Black on white will create strong contrast and give the room a more sophisticated feel. Punches of color here and there will keep it from being too stark. Your children will love their personalized rooms, no matter what their ages.

This is also an interesting idea to try in the bathroom. Stencil a piece of canvas with the word "bath" in several different fonts. Use a contrasting color for a graphic design, or more than one color for a more casual look. Continue the stenciling onto the walls and even the tub. Maybe you'll decide to use several words, such as soap, water, shower, and label everything in the room. It's just paint, and it can be removed or painted over later if you don't like it or decide to redecorate at another time.

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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