How to use Christmas stencils on slate to hang in your front entry or anywhere in the home for some festive holiday decor.
Decorating with Christmas Stencils
I'm not a expert at stenciling. Still, I do love the look, and thought it would be fun to add something new to our Christmas decor.
While visiting my daughters in Ohio, we went to a couple of thrift stores. I found this old slate welcome sign for $3.99, and thought it would work great for this project.
First I painted over the original design with ordinary black craft paint.
Since the stencil I bought did not cover the whole slate, I added this cute bird and garland at the top.
You can easily transfer an image like this by using white chalk on the back of the image, and tracing on the front with a pencil. Then just fill in with more craft paint. Once it's dry, you can wipe away any residual chalk with a damp towel.
I actually bought a new set of stencil brushes for this project. In addition, I made sure I sprayed the stencil with a little adhesive to hold it in place. In the past, I have had some bleed through, but this time I am super happy with how it turned out. Once it was dry I sprayed the whole thing with a polyurethane spray, to protect it from the elements.
Now it's hanging on the side of our front door for all our guests to see.
Christmas With Stencils: Warm Wishes on Slate
Equipment
Materials
- Slate Sign
- Black Acrylic Paint
- Paint Brush
- Christmas Stencil
- Chalk
- Stencil Brushes
- Spray Adhesive
- Clear Polyurethane Spray
Instructions
- If your slate sign has an original design, paint over it with black craft paint.
- Add the cute bird and garland by using white chalk on the back of the image, and tracing on the front with a pencil.
- Fill in with more craft paint.
- Once it's dry, you can wipe away any residual chalk with a damp towel.
- Spray with polyurethane.
Jane Peet
oh, my...I love that you used slate! It is awesome and my wheels are turning...I'll be looking for slate...Lol! The stencil is also perfect and the little bird makes it pop. My mom & I love birds!
I've loved this project...thank you for the inspiration!
Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday, xo
Karen
I so love how you took a thrifted piece and turned it into something so gorgeous for Christmas! I get just giddy when something old and tired gets all dressed up and given new usefulness like this. You did a fabulous job!
The stencil is great, and I love that word-block style. I have yet to find a spray adhesive locally, and am sure it would make my stencil efforts easier. What brand/retailer did you use?
It's always a joy doing a project with you, Patti. This one is yet another! 🙂
Patti Estep
Hi Karen,
I feel the same way about you.
Regarding the adhesive I simply used Elmer's multipurpose spray adhesive. I bought it at our local hardware store. It's a little on the strong side but maybe that's a good thing.
Thanks for stopping by,
Patti
Meredith @ The Palette Muse
This is such a fun idea and I love the quote you chose. I always wondered how people get those perfect chalk board designs, thanks for sharing! And that little bird is just the perfect touch!
Jemma
Good Morning Patti,
I adore your slate Christmas sign and this stencil is gorgeous.
What a wonderful way to incorporate Christmas decorating into your home.
I so enjoy working with you on these creative projects.
You always inspired me.
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Jemma
Jody
So very pretty. The words are beautiful and the littlle red bird is perfect.
Donna Harvey
Oh Patti, I am in love with your Slate Christmas Sign. That Red Bird just made it Pop. Great Job. You aren't going to believe this, but my Husband just brought home an arm full of Slate last night. He knows I like to make things too. Especially Painted things. I am so excited, does it show? I even have a whole gallon of Black Chalk Paint that I mixed up for my projects. Glad you e-mailed me so I didn't miss this. Thanks I am also glad you made a list of the other Ladies so I can visit their Sites too. See you soon, Donna
Carole @ Garden Up Green
I love the idea of using a slate and that stencil is awesome! This just looks so festive and the simplicity is wonderful. Thanks for joining us love working with you Patti.
Patti Estep
Hi Carole,
Thanks for thinking of me. I had a great time with this challenge and now I have a lovely new piece to hang outside for the season.
Patti