Wood Graining
Wood graining is a method of replicating specific wood grains by blending a mixture of cheaper woods. The process of graining can be used to form a variety of grains of varying quality to accommodate a range of uses. Two types of graining are commonly used. Coarse graining can add an increased rustic feel to a surface and fine graving can be used to provide a subtle effect.
The colour of the grain is gained by using specific grain staining solutions there are various colours available dependant on the kind of wood you are trying to replicate. You need to ensure you have the right equiptment
Stencilling Designs
You can use stencils in any room to change the decoration without having to redecorate the whole room. Once you have choosen your design you need to place it on the surface you want to stencil, you might want to use a spirit level to position the stencil if it needs to sit straight to look right.
When you have the stencil in the right place if it's not a self adhesive stencil you can stick it in place using masking tape because this won't damage the paint or wallpaper underneath. With most stencils being fairly small you should only need a small amount of paint you could either pour a small amount of paint into a tub or you could even just buy a tester pot of paint to save money. Now fill in the stencil using circular motions or by tapping the brush, starting from the outside and moving towards the inside of the gaps. A sponge can be used instead of a brush to achieve a thicker effect if desired.
When you have completely filled the stencil if you need to over lap the design to carry it on you should be sure to make sure it is lined up exactly because otherwise the design can end up uneven. You should also be sure not to use too much paint when filling the stencil because it can look un even or cause the paint to leak over the lines ruining the design. If paint does seep out then wipe the stencil dry before continuing. Also, if you are using the same design throughout one room make sure to wipe the stencil after every few applications to remove any build up of excess paint.
If your stencil pattern features more than one colour, it is recommended to use an individual brush for each colour as you will not need to clean brushes reducing the risk of mixing colours together or watering down the colour and altering the shade.
As well as traditional cardboard stencils, sponges can be used to obtain a similar effect. By using a biscuit cutter or a small blade you can cut a pattern into the surface of a synthetic, flat sponge. Take the sponge and dip it into some paint and practice applying the sponge to some scrap paper to find the right amount of pressure required to make the pattern. Too much pressure may make the pattern appear blotchy or even make the cut out areas overlap, destroying the pattern.