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good fun using a scrap of wood to test different methods before painting the furniture, though applying a coat of the lightest tone out of the three chosen, paint the background. Then, while the background is still damp, dip a sponge or screwed up newspaper (for dragging work), into the contrasting colors, and with a dabbing effect, try and create a uniform all over effect. Never be frightened to try new things. The newspaper can also be used to drag color over the surface, although the dabbing effect with newspaper gives a wonderful texture.

For marble effect, take the above work one step further and by smearing the surface with flat newspaper in a soft rubbing motion, as marble give the impression of being flat. Then, taking the artists paintbrush apply little irregular grain marks such as you would find on marble, using the two contrasting colors. If you make mistakes, it isn't important, since you can paint over them. It takes practice and can look stunning.

STENCILED PIECES

Tools required for the job.

Undercoat (oil based)
Topcoat paint (oil based)
Stencil paints (acrylic)
Stencil brush
Stencils
Newspaper

Stencils are available on the Internet and in craft shops worldwide, and what they offer is pictures that require little skill to produce. Here, for a kitchen, you can choose a theme that suits the coloring of your room. For a lounge or sun room, you can use flowers or leaves, and for the child's bedroom, it can be great fun to create stunning pieces of furniture and blend them, such as matching wardrobes, bedside tables and chairs. Even bed heads look great and in nurseries, the baby's crib can be stenciled with super motifs that suit a nursery ambiance.

Stenciling is easy, though before the stencil process, the preparation as mentioned above needs to be undertaken, and still with the item of furniture on a dust-sheet, an undercoat and then topcoat should be applied to the furniture, with a light rubbing of sandpaper between coats. Leave both the undercoat and top coat their specified drying times before even considering applying stencils.

Many stencils these days are self adhesive and do not damage the paintwork. What they consist of is a plastic or cardboard shape with holes cut out that make the design. If your stencils are adhesive, stick them in place and look from a distance if your placement works well. Here stencil brushes with a flat end should be used and it is wise to practice on a spare piece of wood to get yourself accustomed to the process of stenciling.

Stencil

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