Say Goodbye to Flat Boring Walls

Bring new life to your walls by using texture to add style and dimension. Textured stencils are quick and easy to use, and can be bought from any paint or craft store. The only trick is trying to decide which stencil is best for the surface you wish to revitalize.

Once you've made your decision all you need are some painters' tape or repositionable spray adhesive, measuring tape, a metal trowel, and a texturing medium. Before you begin to use the stencils you must make sure your previously painted or primed surface is clean, dry, free of dust, and sound enough to work with.

As soon as you have all your tools together, you just follow the reference guide on the stencil. Using painters' tape or repositionable spray adhesive, position the stencil onto the chosen area on the wall and press down firmly.

If you want to give your walls a multi-dimensional look, Modern Masters recommends that you use Modern Masters Texture Effects Multi-Purpose Texturing Medium instead of ordinary latex paint. Texture Effects is very useful as an all-over wall texture and for stenciling. It can also be used to create raised reliefs and heavily distressed textures. Durable and versatile, this painting marvel can also be tinted to any color with universal colorants or at a local paint store.

Perhaps you want the ultimate texture look for your walls. In order to achieve this effect you must first use Texture Effects to create an all-over wall texture. Once this has dried, you use your texturing medium to add a stenciled look. Finally, you trowel Texture Effects over and through the stencil at a flat angle. Be sure to do this with a light even pressure, like you would to ice a cake, otherwise the material will be pushed under the stencil and your texture will be ruined.

After you have smoothed and evened out your chosen texture, you can remove the stencil. To do this, carefully lift the stencil and pull it straight away from the wall. Repeat this pattern and texture throughout the surface, and then be ready to invite everyone you know to admire your beautifully textured walls.