Is your patio feeling a little drab? Do you wish your fence had more character? Does your home lack curb appeal? The good news is that you can spruce up your outdoor spaces without too much hassle. A great stencil, along with some creativity, are all it takes to make your yard more memorable.
Using Stencils in Outdoor Areas
There are a few different ways that you can use stencils to add beauty and charm to your outdoor areas.
- Fences
Add interest to an otherwise boring surface by stenciling onto your fence. Repeating patterns or one large focal image both look great, especially if there are bushes, flowers, and trees complimenting the design.
- Patio furniture
DIY a designed patio furniture set by stenciling coordinating patterns onto side tables, cushions, and throw pillows. Just make sure to use the appropriate types of paints on each surface. Fabric paints are available at most craft stores.
- Stepping Tiles
Add some interest into your flower bed with stenciled stepping tiles. You can make inexpensive squares of concrete look like high-end tiles with a stencil and a little paint.
How to Stencil a Concrete Patio
One of my favourite looks is a stenciled outdoor patio. A great design looks stunning from every angle. Even though this type of project may take some time, it is definitely worth it.
Before you begin stenciling, make sure that the concrete is properly cleaned with either a pressure washer or a stiff brush. Then use a concrete stain as the base of your project. Once the stain is dry, start stenciling. Make sure to use a small amount of paint and pounce the brush up and down rather than dragging it side to side. This keeps the paint from leaking under the stencil. I recommend sealing it with a clear acrylic concrete sealer to keep your hard work looking fresh for as long as possible.
Choosing the Right Stencil
Whether you are stenciling on an outdoor throw pillow or tackling the entire fence, choosing the right stencil is key to a successful project. Think about what type of impact you are looking for. You might want a large image on a fence or a repeating faux-tile on the patio floor. There may be a pre-made stencil that is exactly what you are looking for or you may need to make your own. Whatever you choose, make sure it is something that you think you’ll like for many years to come.
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