Getting Artsy with Stencils

You know you have been bitten by the art bug when all kinds of things at Lowe's or discarded items become creating treasure. I seriously look forward to visiting home improvement stores, the dollar store, or my trash bin (don't worry...I actually get my divine little treasures before they are IN the can!) Ohhh, and I am not shy... I'll ask my friends for their trash too. :) No, I am kidding. But, I do love keeping my eyes out for things that will make fabulous stencils. They are so fun to play with and add such interesting texture to backgrounds.

Martha Stewart paper as stencil

So, today I wanted to mess with these fabulous Martha Stewart papers I found at Micheal's on clearance. Martha Stewart products don't go on sale or clearance very often, so I scooped these puppies up fast. Even the nice guy behind the counter said, "Ohhh, these will make a fabulous stencil." That's right! I used some turquoise acrylic paint mixed with water in a spray bottle and some chalk ink for the dollar bin. I like the way they turned out, although I think I'd use spray ink next time. :)

 

background WIP on cardboard

Adding some ink with Q-tips (Loving the red!)

Earlier in the week, my daughter was setting up a new board game she had. She was about to toss the chipboard sheet that the little pieces were punched from...when I jumped from my chair to grab it. What a great stencil! So, be sure to check packaging material, kids toys, games & whatever else you can think of to make your own stencils.

See that great Disney game stencil!

I had fun using the stencils and creating this little cutie. There is much to rejoice about and gratitude was on my heart today. 

I'd love to know some of your stencil secrets and 

where do you buy your favorites?

I am linking up this post with some other very creative souls at 

Paint Party Friday and Sneak Peek Friday. So, so much inspiration. Come join in or at least come take a peek. :)