STRIPING

Stripes are a classic design for decorating schemes. They are extremely versatile, as you can vary their width for any number of effects. If you are aiming for a symmetrical, formal look it is important to measure out the available space accurately first so that you can be sure the stripes will fit.

	You will need: Base coat of Wash 'n Wear Silk 2nd shade for stripes Paint roller and tray Measuring tape Pencil Masking tape Spirit level Colours used in this setting: 2F1-8: Burnt Chilli 2F2-8: Spice Orange 2F3-8: Home Fires
	STEP 1 Paint the walls in your base colour, using a paint roller and tray. Mark the centre of the most important wall, with a pencil. Make marks 7.5cm on either side of this, then every 15cm. Continue around the room until the marks meet at the least noticeable corner.

STEP 2
Starting in the centre of the wall, place strips of masking tape on either side of the marked row of dots to give a 15cm wide stripe. Repeat for other rows of dots.

STEP 3
Brush or roll on second colour to a section of the first stripe. Complete each stripe in two or three stages, depending on the height blending joins (seams) to achieve an even result.

STEP 4
Dab the wet paint lightly with a cloth to smooth out the brush marks. Complete all the stripes, peel off the masking tape and leave the paint to dry.

STENCILING
Half the fun of stencilling lies in the design and preparation of the stencils. Unlike other finishes, you have complete control over the end result. Stencilling works to charming effect on pale walls, with muted colours such as blue-grey and beige. Clear, sealed stencilling on woodwork looks good if warm earth colours and olive colours are used.

You will need: Sponge Piece of old paper Masking Tape Stencil of choice Paint tray Spirit level Measuring tape Colours used in this setting: 2F1-8 : Burnt Chilli 2F2-8 : Spice Orange 2F3-8 : Home Fires

STEP 1
For stenciling a wall, draw all horizontal lines using a spirit level Take verticals from this horizontal with T-square. Mark the position of the stencils on the wall with a pencil, using your guide holes on the stencil.

STEP 2
Fix the stencil firmly in position with masking tape, load sponge lightly, then stamp out onto a clean surface (a piece of hardboard will do) to distribute the paint evenly on the sponge. Dab the sponge onto the stencil surface - don't smear. Avoid painting under the stencil.

STEP 3
Wait a minute, then lift the stencil off vertically and transfer to the next position.

STEP 4
If you're working in several colours, allow one to dry before applying the next. Once you've finished, remove all chalk and pencil marks, let the paint dry for a day or two and seal. For woodwork, apply two coats of matt or stain finish varnish.