DIY Network

Silhouette Prints Stencil a 3-D art piece. From "B. Original" episode DBOR-609

Let your images float above a fun background.

Stencils can make it easy for anyone to paint with style, and this fun silhouette project from B. Original host Michele Beschen takes your stencils to the next level with a fun 3-D effect.

Michele Beschen shows how to stencil inside a picture frame – or, better yet, a shadow box – to suspend a silhouette over a decorative background. Make one for a special spot, or several for a dramatic grouping.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

3-D Silhouette Prints

Materials:

shadow box or picture frame
decorative papers
spray adhesive or glue
artwork stencil
glass paints or enamel paints designed for glass or ceramics
stencil brushes
rags or paper towels

• Remove the back from the frame or shadow box. Michele Beschen says a shadow box gives the best final result with this project.

• Choose a decorative paper to be the background. Cut it to the same size as the frame backing.

• Attach the paper to the backing with spray adhesive or regular glue (figure A).
  
  
• Lay the frame, with the glass inside, face down on a work surface. Position the stencil on top of the glass and tape into place (figure B). Remember, you are working on the back of the glass – make sure to position the stencil so the final image will look right from the front.

• Dip a stencil brush into the paint and dab off any excess on a rag or paper towel. Lightly dab paint around the edges of the stencil, then fill in the central areas (figure C). Don't use a traditional brushing motion: Gently touch the tips of the bristles to the glass to apply the paint. This will help prevent the paint from seeping under the stencil. Once the paint is dry, go back over the painted areas with a second coat if needed.

• Remove the stencil once all areas have been painted. If any paint has seeped under the stencil, scrape it away with a sharp craft blade (figure D).

• Let the paint dry completely, then reassemble the frame and backing.

Create an entire grouping of these silhouettes and hang them proudly!