EveJulien: DIY Kitchen Backsplash Stencil

Hello Remodelaholics! It’s LZ from The Summery Umbrella, and I’m really excited to share with you my newest DIY post. Today’s project is a little different than some of my posts that I’ve done in the past (like my Mason Jar Pendant Light or Build a Waterfall on a Budget) because it’s going to be all about painting and design!

My husband and I have been slowly finishing up our kitchen remodel, and for the past few months I have been debating whether or not to create my own kitchen backsplash as a statement piece. As I’m sure you’ve already figured out I’ve decided it was completely worth it! I love creating anything that is unique and interesting so this project was right up my alley. And guess what? I’m even going to give you the files to create your own for FREE! Awesome, right? Let’s get started!

DIY Kitchen Backsplash Stencil

Materials Needed

semi-gloss paint (in whatever color you would like to use)
stencil blank(s)
painter’s tape
PDF stencil file (to print out on your printer)
SVG stencil file (download for your Cricut machine)

Tools Suggested

foam paint brush
thin paint brush
measuring tape
printer or Cricut machine (aka. stencil maker)

Steps

1.) First things first, do one of the following (any of these methods are acceptable so just select your favorite):

a.) download my palm leaf PDF stencil file to print out on your printer

b.) download my palm leaf SVG stencil file for your Cricut machine

c.) create your own stencil!

Note: Just in case you’re wondering, I have been specifying using a Cricut machine since I know that the Silhouette machine requires special software in order to use your own designs that are not created within their program. However, you are most welcome to use my PDF stencil file (if don’t mind doing the work to turn it into a Silhouettte stencil first) and cleaning it up a bit on your own.

2.) Then, it’s time to create your actual stencil! So, grab your handy-dandy tape measurer and measure out the space you will want to put it to make sure it will fit properly.

Note: Please keep in mind that these downloads have been formatted for my own backsplash. You might need to resize your own to fit accordingly, or you can also cut off a little bit of any of the sides if it is too big.

3.) Once you are sure that your stencil is formatted to your liking go ahead and either print it out on your printer or Cricut machine.

For this step, if you have decided to print it out with your printer you will then need to cut it out, transfer it onto your stencil blank, and cut it out again.

If you are using your Cricut please cut with your stencil blank. TIP: I used the custom setting for my blade for 0.40mm thickness.

4.) Next, using painter’s tape go ahead and tape around the area around your backsplash to ensure no paint gets on your countertop, stove, electrical outlets, etc.

5.) Then, go ahead and tape up your stencil to the wall.

TIP: I found that taping it only on two side was enough, but you can definitely put it up any way that is easiest for you.

6.) Now it’s time to paint!

I’ve tried a variety of methods before with similar projects, but my favorite way to start off my design is with a simple foam brush. All you need to do is to get just enough paint onto your stencil so it doesn’t run underneath, but also gives you some guidelines to paint it in later.

7.) Then, take off your stencil (let it dry off for a few minutes), flip it over, and paint it all over again.

8.) Repeat this method until you have reached your end point.

9.) Last, with your thin paint brush paint in all of the insides and edges of your stencil.

10.) Enjoy your end result!

Cost and Time Involved:

Semi-gloss paint: $30

Stencil blanks: $4

Foam brush pack: $2

Thin paint brush pack: $2

Total Cost: $38

Total Time: I would set aside one weekend. When painting this much detail you’ll probably want to take a few breaks, or even stop halfway through and finish the rest on the following day.