A reusable rose compass stencil was the perfect option to revive an old, very large coffee table. Because the coffee table is an octagon (eight sided), this diy stencil project was a no brainer. The stencil is very durable and easy to use. If you're looking for a large stencil project, I think you are in the right place.
This particular coffee table is old. Would you prefer to paint your table first? I have tips for painting tables here.
Secure Stencil with Tape
Reusable plastic stencils are easy to work with, this one comes in three sizes. Of course, you don't have to be in a coastal city to use nautical theme stencils. This table is in a cabin by the lake.
I like to buy my craft supplies on Amazon. You can pick up the compass wind rose mylar plastic stencil here.
Apply Paint to Stenciled Table
Using painter's tape to hold your stencil will be very helpful. Because I was stenciling this table for a friend, I was caught off guard and didn't have proper stencil brushes. As you can see, I used a foam brush instead. What do you use for stenciling? Foam? Stencil brush?
Not shown, I did use two paper plates. One for holding the paint, the second for offloading the foam brush.
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Rotate Large Stencil
Because this table had sections, I lined the points up on the lines of the table. In addition, I used a straight pin in the very center of the compass rose stencil to help spin it around when it was time to do the mirrored half. Do you use similar hacks when you're using a large stencil?
Roll Painter's Tape for Extra Hold
The stencil had been shipped "curved" which left the tails of the letters a little warped. It didn't help that the large stenciled letters were so near the edge of the octagon table. Therefore I chose to use rolled painter's tape to hold down the pointy parts of the letters. Would you have done that? Perhaps you would have used a spray adhesive? I wish I had some on hand for this project.
The same method was used for the W on the rose compass stencil. You can see that I reused some of the painter's tape.
Compass Rose Stenciled Coffee Table
Update your old table AND your home decor in one quick DIY project. I think nautical stencils add a little whimsy to your pillows, trays, walls and more. What is your favorite stencil design? Perhaps you may like a retro star? Then my stenciled three legged table tutorial may tickle your fancy. It was also done with reusable stencils.
When you're finished using your stencil, clean it with warm water and soap.
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Do you have tips for us on using extra large stencils? Won't you leave a comment below so I can learn from you expertise?
gail
Gail Wilson is the author and mastermind behind My Repurposed Life. She is obsessed with finding potential in unexpected places and believes that with a little hard work and imagination, any old thing can be made useful again, including herself!
Gail reinvented herself during a midlife crisis and has found purpose again. She hopes you will find new ideas for old things and pick up a few tools along the way.
girlfromwva
that looks really nice! i haven't used any big stencils, only small ones. i think you did a fantastic job!
Gail Wilson
Thanks Nova! My cousin sort of roped me into doing this project while we were on a "work weekend" at the cabin! I wasn't really prepared. hahahah
John Van Der Linden
For 90% of my stenciling I use spray paint, I use a little more tape & masking paper but it makes for a neater finish.
Gail Wilson
Great tip John! This was on the fly while I was out of town. š
gail