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.

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.

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!

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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