Event planner Sandy Zeigler uses homemade stencils to create a one-of-a-kind tablecloth perfect for a western hoe-down. Materials:
Cream-colored canvas or muslin cut to fit the table
Water-based fabric paints in earth tones
Metallic fabric paints in copper and gold
Spray bottle
Painter's tape
Sponges
Thick paper and scissors to make stencils
Sewing machine
- Cut the canvas or muslin cloth to fit your table, and finish the edges by sewing a shirttail hem.
- Dilute the fabric paint with water, and pour into a spray bottle. Begin by mixing equal parts paint and water. Experiment to find the right color and consistency of diluted paint. Crumple the fabric into a bunch, and mist the crumpled fabric with diluted fabric paint (figure A). Light, neutral colors work best. Repeat this step several times until all areas of the fabric are covered by a background of color. Use different colors to give the background depth. Allow the fabric to dry.
- When the fabric is dry, apply a strip of painter's tape 2" to 5" from the edge of the cloth to form a border (figure B).
- Use a sponge to apply metallic paint to the taped-off border of the cloth (figure C).Let the paint dry and remove the tape.
- Make stencils by cutting designs from heavy paper or lightweight cardboard. For a western theme, cut out a cactus shape (figure D) or a cattle brand.
- Sponge different shades of metallic paint over the stencils.
- When finished, let the cloth dry completely. Run the fabric through the dryer a couple of times to set the paint. Wipe the inside of the dryer clean after this step to remove any paint residue.
- Use the tablecloth to help create a western-themed dining table, accented with copper and pottery pots and metal candlesticks. Wash as necessary, following the instructions included with the fabric paint.
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