Cottage Chic Crafts: Damask Letter Mantle Art

Whether you prefer a country, primitive or shabby style space, this damask letter mantle art project is a stylish addition to your home! Many home decor boutiques and Etsy shops offer similar designs for around a $100. However, you can make yours for considerably less.

Supplies Needed for This Project:

To start this project, you will want a piece of 1/8 inch thick crafting board or plywood. You will also want a ten to twelve inch high stencil in the shape of the letter you wish to create. (This can be either a typewriter style or a fancy style, although the more ornate the letter template is, the harder it will be to create.) You will also need a jigsaw or other similar power tool to cut lettering from the wood. Medium or fine grit sandpaper and a tack cloth are also required. To decorate the mantle art, you will want spray primer, spray paint, damask print scrapbook paper, and decoupage medium. (Any color, style, or brand of these is your choice.)

Steps of This Project:

To start, lay the plywood or crafting board flat on the work area. In pencil, trace the letter design from the stencil directly onto the wood.

Very carefully cut out the design using a jigsaw or other similar style power tool. Smooth the edges of the letter with a sheet or two of medium grit sandpaper. Wipe down the letter with a tack cloth to remove any dust or grit created during sanding.

Prime the letter with your favorite brand of spray primer. (Priming the letter gives the finish of the wood an even tone, making it easier to paint.) Once it has dried fully, paint the letter a color of your choice. Let the mantle art set for a few hours to fully complete the drying process.

Decide what part of the damask print scrapbook paper you are going to cover the wooden letter with. Are you going to fully cover it, or just use pieces? While the exact details are up to you, it will need to be trimmed to size with scissors.

Apply a bit of decoupage medium to the back of any paper pieces. Adhere the pieces immediately to the painted wooden letter. Press firmly, wiping away any excess glue with a damp paper towel. Let the mantle art dry overnight before displaying.

How This Project is Best Displayed:

For the greatest look, set atop a mantle and gently lean it against the wall behind.