Murals

As Scott says “No wall is safe when Janie is around’.  Don’t be intimidated by a large wall space.  You can combine techniques using stencils, paint blocks, rubber stamps, projected images and of course freehand drawing. Spread a little cheer in your neighborhood, paint a mural or scene on your wall.  (Some neighborhoods have restrictions, be sure to check it out first.)

Decoupage

Always use color copies instead of original photos or objects.  You can color copy almost anything.  Don’t forget when color copying you can also shrink the image, make it larger or mirror the image.  

When using wrapping paper or other papers, test it first.  Some papers are thin and are very fragile.  Carefully use a braier to smooth out the paper. Any smooth item can be used for this purpose.

To stick the color copies onto your surface, use glue, wallpaper paste, decoupage medium, mod-podge, or thinned down white glue.  If you use anything other than decoupage or mod-podge, make sure to gently wipe down the surface after applying the material.

Seal your project with two to four coats of mod-podge or decoupage medium.   If you use polyurethane make sure it’s water based.  If the item is a table top or other highly used surface, apply at least five to eight coats of polyurethane.  Be sure to let each coat dry the required time as indicated by the manufacturer.

Color Copies

Most supply businesses that provide color copying services have restrictions regarding copy rights and the use of color copies.  Whatever they will copy, can be used.  Color, type of paper used and copy quality may vary from store to store – Check it out first, buy a test or sample before doing multiple copies.

Most color copy stores do not carry the transfer sheets required for “picture-to-fabric” transfers.  If yours does not, get the sheets from a local craft store and take them to your color copy store with the instructions.  Remind the color copy store to “mirror image” the original because it will be transferred again.  Also tell them to turn the color down two notches.

Painting

When painting a project, we find it best to use “water based” paints.  They are much easier to handle and clean-up is fast and easy.  Try to stay with “water-based” paints all the way through the paints to the sealer and polyurethane if used.

When choosing a primer consider:  Will it be used as a stainblocker for dark or red woods or will it be used over a previously painted surface.  Check out the “gripper qualities” of the paint – will it be used over laminates or any slick surface?  When it doubt, talk to your paint supplier and make sure they know what you are using it for.

Need to paint a tall wall? Get a roller with an extension pole attachment.   If you can't find a brush that will screw-into the extension, duct tape one on the end of the pole.  Now you can do those “cut-ins” without a tall ladder or scaffolding.

Here’s another new trend (if your neighborhood allows it).  Have some fun with your house.  Paint a checker board on your fascia or paint a mural on your house walls.

The information on this instruction sheet is presented in good faith, but no warranty is given, nor results guaranteed. It's-A-Snap disclaims all liability from any injury to anyone undertaking the construction of these projects as a result of improper safety precautions. Since we have no control over physical conditions surrounding the application of information herein contained, It's-A-Snap disclaims any liability for untoward results.
© 1999 It's-A-Snap Productions, Inc.