Lesson 3: Stenciling with Plaster
Stenciling designs using plaster instead of paint isn't new; the technique was used to create some of the ornamental plasterwork seen in stately homes of old. But until fairly recently the technique has been almost totally neglected in the modern stenciling repertoire. And even now, when it is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, most people are limiting themselves to single overlay stenciling in blocky designs that imitate old tin ceiling tiles. But the art is much more versatile than that.
Plaster stenciling, just like it's counterpart in paint, can be used in multiple overlays, which create truly dimensional effects. It can be used for more than simple ceiling tiles, as well, being useful for turning plain, boring moldings into something more ornate, to decorate plain vases and wooden planters outdoors, or even to create spectacular raised designs (and yes, even murals) on the walls. Or, used in an orderly pattern, small motifs can be applied to the walls to imitate damask wallpaper.
Or, if you prefer to think small, try plastering small motifs - flowers, a leafy branch, an elegant scroll, perhaps - on a small board and framing it - instant, elegant, dimensional art. You'll find several small projects at BHG.com.
Beginner's Kit - Needed Supplies
For any kind of plaster stenciling job, indoors or out, you will need stencils made from heavy gauge mylar, a trowel to apply your medium with, and stencil adhesive to make sure that the stencil is fast to the background surface. You will be working the plaster more than you work stencil paint, so the danger of it leaking beneath the stencil increases greatly unless it is held down fast in all areas.
A damp paper towel and/or cotton swaps also come in handy for removing little smears and mistakes quickly.
The size of you trowel depends on whether you will be stenciling large, flat surfaces ( in which case you need a wide tool - I use a wall scraper) or small, finer ones, in which case a slender taping knife may be sufficient.
The type of plaster you use, and the way you color it will vary depending on whether you are doing an indoor or an outdoor project. We'll discuss the coloring options for each in the next section.
Finally, a not-so-basic set of materials, once again dependant on what overall effect you want. Basic plaster is porous, and creates interesting effects by the way it absorbs color. The expensive Venetian plaster, (about $60 a gallon) on the other hand, is not nearly as porous and can be polished to a sheen. You can buy the expensive stuff, but for only a few dollars more than your basic tools, you can create an excellent imitation. Just add a bottle of concrete sealer to the shopping list. Also, get some fine grade sandpaper and a fluffy old brush for removing the sanded particles.
Your best source for stencils especially designed for plaster stenciling is Victoria Larsen Designs. I must admit - Victoria is a friend of mine and got me hooked on this technique. But she is the only source of multiple overlay plaster stencils (as well as a lot of single overlay designs) around. I've used many of them and they're great. Check out the web site as it's filled with good hints and tips along with the catalog of stencil designs.
