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How to Paint White Stencil on Cream Paint

One way to create a subtle design in your home is to apply a stencil using a neutral-colored paint. An example is painting a white stencil design over a cream-colored wall. This will give your room delicate highlights without the sharp graphic contrast usually associated with stenciling. Stencils can be purchased pre-cut at any hobby or craft store for minimal cost. However, you can also create your own stencil design to give your living space a more personal touch. Apply a white stencil to cream-colored walls, kitchen cabinets, tabletops and even flooring.

Things You'll Need

  • Cream interior paint
  • Paint trays
  • Paint rollers and brushes
  • Acrylic stencil sheets
  • Fine-tipped permanent marker
  • Exacto knife
  • Cutting board
  • Painter tape
  • White interior paint
  • Small sponge or roller
  • Towel or rag
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Instructions

  1. Painting

    • 1

      Clean the surface being painted before beginning, ensuring that it's free of dust and smudges. If you already have a cream-colored wall, ensure it is clean and skip to Section 2.

    • 2

      Pour some of cream interior paint into the paint tray, ensuring the paint has been mixed well.

    • 3

      Paint the entire surface using a roller or brush. For cabinetry, make sure all the nooks and crannies are painted. Two or three coats may be needed depending on the paint type. Let dry for at least 24 hours.

    Making a Stencil

    • 4

      Lay out an acrylic stencil sheet onto the cutting board. Draw your design onto the sheet using the fine-tipped permanent marker. If you purchased a pre-cut stencil, skip this section.

    • 5

      Use the Exacto knife to cut out the design of the stencil. Keep in mind that the cutout area will be the painted section.

    • 6

      Ensure the inside edges of the stencil are smooth. Jagged edges can catch on rollers or sponges, causing imperfections in the stenciling.

    Stenciling

    • 7

      Position the stencil onto the surface and tape the outside edges down with painter tape (see reference 1). Remember that painter tape will not pull paint off the wall, but conventional masking and duct tape will ruin the paint job.

    • 8

      Pour a small amount of white interior paint into a clean paint tray.

    • 9

      Dip the sponge or roller into the paint, then dab off any excess paint using an old towel or rag. Too much paint can cause dripping and uneven edges when stenciling.

    • 10

      Apply a thin layer of white paint over the entire stencil. Use a natural sponge to create a more textured look and a roller to create a smooth look. If the first coat does not cover completely, let it dry and apply a second coat. Do not apply a thick layer of paint, as this will cause leakage and dripping.

    • 11

      Remove the stencil sheet carefully, so as not to smudge the edges of the paint, and let dry.