Umbrella Stencil Project Gives Your Rain Shield New Life

April showers bring May flowers. But the way our forecast has been so far in 2014, I think it's a safe bet they'll bring May showers, too! Does your child have an old umbrella that's looking a bit worse for the wear? Instead of tossing it, give it a quick makeover with some DIY stencils and craft paint.

Materials

  • Old umbrella
  • All-purpose craft paint
  • 1 foam paintbrush
  • 1 smaller detail paintbrush
  • Scrap cardstock, cut into squares
  • Scissors
  • Marker
  • Duct tape

Instructions

  1. Have your kid pick a pattern and paint color. Simple shapes, like a raindrop, work best. For each design you choose, you'll want its own stencil.
  2. Draw your shape onto a cardstock-scrap square. Carefully cut it out and discard that part – so you're left with a stencil.
  3. Set your stencil onto one section of the umbrella. Position it a few times before painting! This helps you see where it best fits along the umbrella's curves. Once you find the flat connection between stencil and fabric, secure with duct tape on top and bottom – and either side, if necessary.
  4. Apply the first coat of paint with the foam brush. Paint the outside edges first and then the middle. Remove the stencil. Repeat for each design you want to add.
  5. With your smaller fine-tip paintbrush, outline and fill in the design you stenciled. This helps in case your stencil moved while painting. Let the first coat of paint dry and add a second and third coat to achieve your desired finish. Make sure to keep the umbrella open while drying.

Can you take this umbrella out in the rain? You bet. I used Martha Stewart's Craft Paints because it's waterproof (once dry, of course) and weather resistant. So get outside and jump those puddles in style!

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

- Advertisement -

LATEST STORIES

Hanukkah Guide for Metro Detroit Families

Here are some new events and activities to celebrate the Festival of Lights.

Enjoy a Magical Holiday Stroll at Canterbury Village

The quaint village is decked out in Christmas spirit this season with carolers, holiday characters and much more.

Kid-Friendly Metro Detroit Hotels to Book for Your Next Staycation

Kids love hotels — especially when there’s a pool involved. Take a mini weekend stay to break up the monotony of the winter months at one of these metro Detroit hotels.

Dazzling Holiday Light Displays Near Sterling Heights You Have to See

Get into the holiday spirit with a festive tour of twinkling displays.



- Advertisement -