Wednesday, November 30, 2011

How to Make Architectural Letters

Sometime last spring I was busy working on a few holiday DIY tutorials for HGTV.com. How fun to finally be able to share these projects with you! Even earlier, when working on the Master Bedroom Redesign, I had such a great time making the "M" and "I" Architectural Letters for the art wall that I thought this could become a fun holiday project as well, using letters to spell a word fitting of the season.

Here are the steps to create your own...it couldn't be more easy!
{paper mache letters available at JoAnn Fabrics}

Materials Needed:

  • paper mache letters
  • tinted primer
  • silver metallic paint
  • rust-colored acrylic paint
  • foam and bristle brushes
  • rag




Gather Supplies

Select letters, gather paint, brushes and rag.

Apply Primer

Brush a layer of primer over letter surfaces, leaving noticeable brush strokes in varying directions. Let dry to the touch.

Apply Metallic Paint

Brush a layer of metallic paint over letter surfaces, leaving noticeable brush strokes in varying directions.

Wipe Letters

Wipe away excess metallic paint with rag.

Add Rust Accents

Mix or use rust-colored paint to brush highlights over letter edges and any rough or raised areas.

Wipe Letters

Wipe away excess rust-colored paint.

Apply Second Coat of Metallic Paint

Brush on second layer of metallic paint to diffuse rust accents.

Rub In and Wipe Away

Using rag, rub in metallic paint and wipe away any excess.

Display the Letters

Spell out the season's greetings on a table, mantel or location of your choice to spread a little holiday joy.

To see this and other holiday decorating ideas, visit HGTV.com

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