Hi everyone, Denise from Salvaged Inspirations here!

From the first time I applied a textured stencil, it became a go-to technique for many of my projects. Applying a raised stencil can be intimidating though, right?!

If you’ve never tried a raised stencil before, I have some easy tips in hopes it will encourage you to give it a go!

I really hope you give it a try because it’s an amazing way to add pattern, color, and character when working with flat-faced furniture.

I started with these chunky nightstands I bought at my local ReStore.

Paint with Sawmill Gravy

Materials List:

Tips & Tricks:

  1. Use green tape to hold down your stencil while applying the fiber paste.
  2. Sand down the rough edges off after it is 100% dry.
  3. Use a variety of finishes to get different looks. Gilding Wax, dry brushing, dark waxing, glaze just to name a few.
  4. Use a stencil specific for a raised design. These stencils are thicker and have a few millimeters in height for the best results.
  5. Measure your placement to be accurate.
  6. Raised stencils are VERY forgiving. If you make a mistake, it can easily be wiped right off while still wet, so no worries.

Paint with Sawmill Gravy

How To:

I started by cleaning, sanding and applying BOSS primer to stop any bleedthrough.

For a flawless professional finish, I spray with Sawmill Gravy – a gorgeous soft beige neutral!

For the drawer design, I used the Dalia Crest 3D stencil. The stencil is a little thicker so you end up with a more raised/textured design.

Between stenciling each drawer, I cleaned off the stencil so my design stayed crisp and clean.

My original thought was to leave the design in white, but after I picked the teardrop hardware, I thought this rich Chocolate Brown would tie in nicely.

To give it more texture, I sanded back so there are lighter and darker areas.

To learn more about this masterpiece, head over to Salvaged Inspirations here!

Paint with Sawmill Gravy

About the Author

Salvaged Inspirations

Denise is a blogger, self-taught furniture artist, writer, photographer and the owner/creator of Salvaged Inspirations. She is a lover of all things vintage, repurposed and restyled. A thrift enthusiast, she’s always in pursuit of the next creative upcycle.

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