DIY Network

Dots... on the Walls! From "Weekend Decorating" episode WDC-204

	Figure A
	Figure B

It's always a good idea in interior design to tie the look of walls and ceiling together. In this case it is time to take the look of the ceiling to eye level by stenciling polka dots of all sizes on the walls (figure A). They will give both dimension and shimmer to the walls. The process used to stencil the dots will apply to any shape you might prefer to use for your walls. You can find the items used here at a home store, and you may find interesting objects at home to use as templates.

Round templates in 12", 18" and 24" sizes (figure B), a stencil burner and 5-ml Mylar are used to create the stencils. Mylar is available in sheets and rolls, and if possible, always use the 5-ml (which is the thickest) for wall stencils. If the Mylar is not thick, the stencil will not stay firmly in place on the wall, and paint may bleed under the edges of the design. When making Mylar stencils with a stencil burner, always use a porcelain-tile or glass surfaced working area; if not, you will burn the top of your work space.

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	Figure C
	Figure D

Steps:

1. Place Mylar on the tile or glass work surface.

2. Place wooden template on Mylar surface.

3. Place the tip of the stencil burner against the edge of the template, press tip down against the Mylar and firmly draw the tip around the template (figure C). The amount of time needed to cut the Mylar will depend on the thickness of the Mylar; you may need to repeat the process to achieve a clean cut.

4. Remove stencil circles from the Mylar and spray one side with a repositionable spray adhesive so you can temporarily adhere the template to the wall while painting.

5. With the stencil in place on the wall, paint over it using a beige latex paint(figure D).

   Tip: The key to successful stenciling is to keep as little paint as possible on your brush or sponge.

6. Using a sponge dipped in the glaze, go back over the edges of the paint to give a luminescent sheen to the dots. When completed, your dots now resemble large pearls.

7. Remove stencil from the wall.

8. Continue, using random-size stencils, until walls are finished.

Remember, using color should be fun, creative and appropriate. Select colors that fit your home and your belongings, and for a more subtle look, choose colors that are close in tone.