Using Posh Chalk Stencils: The House of Mendes Collection

Everyone knows about Posh Chalk high-quality coatings, crafting brushes and decoupage. However, Posh Chalk also have an exclusive range of stencils too. Posh Chalk recently launched two new ranges of stencils; here, we look at some of the newest designs, and how you can use them for your crafting or upcycling project. If you’re looking for a fun, easy and creative way to add some personality to your DIY projects, then you need to check out Posh Chalk stencils!

Last week we looked at some projects using the Alexandra Collection of stencils. This week it is the turn of the House of Mendes collection which have been designed by the renowned furniture up-cycler Jonathon Marc Mendes.

Jonathon is a hugely talented designer, and a collaborator of Posh Chalk’s. So, it made sense that he should be involved in this new collection. This meant getting his hands dirty with Josie and producing some amazing projects with his range of stencils.

All of these projects are designed to prove that you don’t need to be a skilled and trained artist to become a great artist.

The House of Mendes Stencils

There are three designs in total each of which Jonathan designed especially for this range:

“Pomegranate Branch” is a composition made up of fruit growing from branches and is full of movement!

 “Art Deco Birds” is an art deco design featuring a mirrored image of a pair of birds featuring leaves and the sun’s rays

“Artichokes and Leaves” features three artichokes amongst foliage

Each measures 30cm squared and are made to the same standard as the existing Posh Chalk Premium Stencils (0.25mm P.E.T).

These stencils have been designed to complement all Posh Chalk and WoodUbend products.

The Stencil Project: IKEA Hack!

We decided that we would use a simple, plain MDF cabinet from IKEA for this project.

We followed 8 simple stencilling rules:

1. Ensure the surface is clean
2. Position your stencil and hold in place with low tack tape or stencil adhesive
3. After you have painted, remove all excess paint. Less is more!
4. Hold the stencil in place with one hand while you work
5. Choose your colours carefully
6. Pounce/ swirl the brush lightly over the design
7. Carefully remove the stencil…and admire your work!

Remember – the process is as much fun as the finished design. Don’t worry too much if you think it isn’t perfect – with plenty of practice you’ll soon be a stencil pro!

 We had a ‘dry run’ with the new stencil before we started on the furniture

Solly Jo used a grey chalk pain to provide a strong background colour for the stencil

We tried a few different positions for the stencil before making our final decision. We chose to position the stencil in the middle of the cabinet, so that the mirrored image would be spread over the two cabinet doors.

Solly-Jo holds the stencil in place with one hand. She has chosen a signature gold colour for this project, which will really make the cabinet ‘pop’.

The finished design used two sets of stencils. We inverted the bottom two for extra interest. So, it appears that there are four different designs in total. It’s amazing how great an effect you can get from one simple stencil design by using it in different ways!

What was a boring and basic MDF cabinet has been transformed into something that will be a real talking piece. There’s a certain joy in knowing that you have created something new and completely unique yourself. We love the finished product!

With the other two stencils, we had a go at producing wall art – see what you think!

“Pomegranate Branch” with a vivid background and posh chalk metallic paste that, when heat is applied, actually raises outward to produce a 3D effect

Artichoke and Leaves with deep blue and turquoise. Again, we used a Posh Chalk metallic paste to give it an amazing 3D effect when warmed lightly with a hair dryer.

Washing Posh Chalk Stencils

Using Posh Chalk Stencils couldn’t be easier. All Posh Chalk Stencils are re-useable and so easy to clean. Just clean with warm mild soapy water to remove the residue paint or Posh Chalk pastes. This little bit of extra work ensures your Posh chalk Stencil will last for years to come. We recommend hanging them up to dry and it is a great way to store them so they don’t bend.

Here are some benefits of using stencils in your craft project:

Add personality to your DIY projects.

Choose from a variety of designs.

Easy to use.

Gets you creating.

Transform your furniture / projects with a new design easily.

Give your projects a unique bespoke look.

These stencils can be used for almost anything!

Products used in the Posh Chalk Stencils IKEA hack project

House of Mendes Art Deco Birds stencil

Chalk Mineral Grey paint

Posh Chalk Lemon Gold

FAQs    

What are stencils used for?

The Jonathon Marc Mendes Posh Chalk Premium stencils are to be used as part of an arts, craft or furniture up-cycling project. By painting through the holes in the stencil, a pattern will appear on your chosen surface. You can find out more about Jonathon here: https://jonathonmarcmendes.com/

Can Posh Chalk stencils be re-used?

Yes. The Jonathon Marc Mendes Posh Chalk Premium stencils are made from resilient PET and can be washed and re-used over and over again.

How do stencils work?

Stencils work by allowing paint to seep through the designated holes. These stencils are guaranteed to leave sharp, neat edges to your decorative piece.

What are these stencils made from?

The Jonathon Marc Mendes Posh Chalk Premium stencils are made from resilient PET and can be washed and re-used over and over again. Since they are made of PET, when they do finally wear out, they can even be recycled!

Where can I buy these stencils?

The Jonathon Marc Mendes Posh Chalk Premium stencils can only be bought from Posh Chalk and WoodUbend stockists. To find your nearest stockist, follow this link:

https://woodubend.com/find-a-stockist/