How to Stencil a Plain Rug

Regardless what type of rug you want, you will have to pay out big bucks to get the perfect size, color or style. But what if you could go for the plain and basic (less expensive) rug and customize it to fit your color scheme or personal style. With a little paint and a few stencils, you can transform an ordinary rug into a focal point for you and all of your guests. (I used red and black, but you can use any color scheme you like!)

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ivory Wool-and-Jute Blend Rug
• 2-inch wide Masking Tape
• Stencils
• Black Semi-Gloss Wall Paint
• Stencil Brush
• Red Semi-Gloss Wall Paint
• Repositionable Spray Adhesive

1. Use your masking tape to mark off a border for the rug. Add an additional line of tape ½ inch from the first line.
   Make sure the tape is pressed down flat to avoid any paint from bleeding underneath it; you will fill this in later with the black paint.

2. Place the stencil next to the second taped line to determine the design placement and inner border width.

3. Next make an inner border by applying a line of tape just below the stencil. Measure a ½ inch from that line and add a second line of tape. Again, make sure the tape is pressed down flat to avoid any paint from bleeding underneath it.

4. Now apply the black paint between both rows of taped lines using your stencil brush. Let dry completely and remove the tape.

5. Finally, attach the stencil between the black lines using the spray adhesive. It is best to begin this in the corner of the rug borders.

6. Apply the black paint for the main design and the red for the accents.

7. Carefully lift the stencil and clean it between each use to ensure no smearing. Repeat this process all around the rug until completed.

[FrazzledNanny]

on 1/20/2009 We need a rug in our living room. I haven't been able to find one I like. This is a great way for me to get one I like. Buy it plain and stensil it! Thanks for the article. 5* RRC