Have you ever used a Brass Embossing Stencil by Darice for creating art? They are so versatile. You can use them to emboss paper, stencil a design, trace a pattern, and even create a 3-D image. Since each stencil already comes with directions on how to emboss or stencil, I won’t bore you with those details. Instead, I thought it would be fun to show how to create a 3-D image using a Brass Embossing Stencil, Studio 71 acrylics, a palette knife, and Wallboard Joint Compound (which can be purchased at your local hardware store).
- The first thing you need to do is pick a surface to work on. For this tutorial, I chose to use the scrap paper used in the acrylic paint review—but you can do this technique on any porous surface: paper mache boxes, greeting cards, and even canvases.
- Next, you need to give the compound a good stir. I’m not sure you can tell from the photo but joint compound separates and needs to be mixed before every use.
Mix compound thoroughly
- Lay your stencil directly on top of your surface. Do not tape it down because you’ll need to immediately remove it once the joint compound is added.
Lay stencil flat.
- Use a painting knife to smear the joint compound over the opening of the stencil. Be very careful not to move the stencil.
Smear on compound.
- Gently lift the stencil to reveal the design.
Gently lift stencil
- Let air dry. (Or use an embossing tool to quickly dry the surface.)
Allow compound to dry completely.
- Paint with acrylic paints. (Avoid using watercolor paints as it will soften the joint compound and make it impossible to paint.)
Paint image.
Check out how I used this technique in my Easter Gift Box and have fun adding 3-d designs on your arts and crafts!
10. May 2010 at 11:51 am
Good idea for that old worn vintage look. Great Job!
10. May 2010 at 12:51 pm
I did this in our kitchen with a rose patterned stencil all along the top of the walls. It adds a little touch of pattern and interest without doing something like a wall paper border.
11. May 2010 at 5:32 pm
Thanks gals. Shawn, what did you use to create the 3-d look? Did you also use joint compound or did you use something else? Always good to give others ideas on other materials.
12. May 2010 at 9:37 am
I think I saw this done with chalk also. I tried it, it takes practice to get everything even, and to lift off the stencil. In my case patience would be beneficial!
17. May 2010 at 11:45 pm
Judy, here’s a trick. Once you paint your base, or surface, put a little Mod Podge over the surface and let dry. Then when you put the joint compound on, if you mess up, you can easily remove it with a paper towel without ruining your base work. Also, keep a Q-Tip nearby to remove the little smudges.