DIY Canvas Stenciling

Create a unique piece of work using stencil of your choice.

You don't have to be Picasso to create art. For those who lack the ability to draw, stenciling on canvas is a creative way to make beautiful, sellable artwork. Choose a few different stencils and acrylic paints to get started. Use stretched canvas or canvas board in any size you prefer. Stenciled paintings are modern looking and add a nice touch to any room.

Things You'll Need

• Canvas
• Acrylic paint
• Paint palette
• Large paint brush
• Stencils
• Stencil brush or dense sponge
• Varnish

Instructions

1. Apply a smooth wash to your canvas with a large paintbrush. Choose a color for your background and brush it over the entire surface of your canvas. For a less opaque wash, mix the paint with water and then apply it.

2. Allow the wash to dry for an hour.

3. Lay your canvas on a flat surface and play around with your stencils. Arrange them in a pattern that you find aesthetically pleasing.

4. Tape your stencils down in the position you wish to paint them.

5. Dip your stencil brush or sponge into your acrylic paint and lightly apply the paint over the stencil. If the stencils don't overlap you can do them all at once. If they overlap, allow the paint to dry for two hours and then remove the stencil and lay the other stencil down.

6. Allow all paint to dry overnight.

7. Cover the entire painting with varnish. Apply the varnish in one direction.

8. Hang your new piece of art.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a paint pallet that allows you to separate your paint colors so they don't mix.

• Rinse your sponge with water when switching colors.