Make Your Own Stencils

There are plenty of stencils on the market, but it's easy to create your own, and the kids can get in on the fun by tracing pictures while an adult cuts out the stencils from Mylar. It's possible to cut stencils out of heavy paper or cardboard, but Mylar is a strong, clear plastic that is easily cleaned and will resist tearing. If cutting lines get too close and your stencil does tear, you can mend it with clear tape.

You need:

• Pencil and paper
• Sheets of Mylar (dear plastic)
• Painters tape
• X-acto knife
• Latex paint
• Kitchen sponges
• Paper towels

To make:

1. Draw your design on paper. A child's coloring book is a good source of ideas for pictures to trace.

2. Lay Mylar sheet over desired drawing, and secure with tape. Cut out designs using X-acto knife. (This step is not recommended for young children.) Tape stencil to wall surface.

3. Cut sponges into 5 cm or 7.5 cm square pieces. Dampen one sponge and dip into paint. Dab excess paint on paper towels until sponge is nearly dry, to avoid excess paint leaking under stencil. Dab color onto stencil openings. (For multicolored finish, apply each color while paint is still wet. Use a clean sponge for each color.)

4. To protect walls, apply one coat of water-based urethane.