Whenever I go shopping for linens, I always have a very specific idea in mind of what I want – flowers just so, or the perfect teal green. The problem is that even after scouring every store in the county, nothing I find ever really matches my mental image. So, taking inspiration from the methods of my favorite designers, I’ve begun to entertain the notion of creating my own. I’m no artist, so I was a little nervous about taking on such a project at first. But with a bit of research I learned this is definitely within the realm of DIY.
If you want to give color-blocking a try, just follow these easy steps:
1. Sketch a pattern onto a large piece of cardboard with a pencil. For the best results, avoid overly elaborate designs and stick to something simple until you’ve done a few pieces.
2. Once you’re satisfied with your design, cut it out with an exacto knife, including any details within the basic outline.
3. Iron the fabric and stretch it taut onto a smooth surface.
4. Fill a tray with eco-friendly fabric paint and use a roller to apply it generously and evenly to one side of the cardboard block.
5. Lay the cardboard block face down onto the fabric and gently cover it with newspaper. You may want to try a test run on a piece of scrap fabric first to make sure you’ll be satisfied with the outcome.
6. Apply pressure to the cardboard block while holding it firmly in place.
7. Pull off the newspaper and gently peel away the cardboard block.
8. Repeat the process until your once plain curtains, tablecloth, duvet cover or cloth napkins are pieces of handmade art. Before you know it you’ll be taking orders, girl!
9. One final note: before you wash your new and improved linens, make sure to set the design according to the instructions listed on the can of fabric paint.
For additional helpful instructions, visit Design Sponge.
Image: geishaboy500