Two quick and effective ways to add pattern using paint
Stencilling is a simple method of decorating your walls. The beauty of this technique lies in the handmade effects that you can create. For a faded-wallpaper effect, opt for a repeat pattern, varying the paint coats. Use a small amount of emulsion – a little goes a long way – and apply gently over the stencil using a sponge roller. Start stencilling in the middle of the wall and work outwards.
This is a form of \”speed stencilling\”, explains Clare Bosanquet, who sells a collection of 21 roller designs. She came across the idea while on a photography assignment in Romania and saw a future for this forgotten form of mechanical \’potato printing\’. All you need is a water-based matt emulsion and the embossed rubber roller. Apply with a steady hand for an instant and thrifty alternative to patterned wallpaper. Bosanquet is currently working on a series of new designs.