Author and designer Sharon Hanby-Robie creates a functional and decorative screen to camouflage the fireplace during the spring and summer months.
Materials:
fireplace screen
latex water-based paint (featured project used a cream color)
decoupage glue (available at any craft store)
polyurethane varnish in matte, semi-gloss or high-gloss finish
medium grit sanding block and lint-free cloth
inexpensive foam paintbrush
paper towels
disposable rubber gloves
1/2" wood trim molding
paint or fabric pattern of your choice and a contrast fabric
upholstery foam (optional)
fabric craft glue
Steps:
- Prepare the screen by lightly sanding and wiping it down.
- Paint the screen with water-based latex base coat and allow to dry for 24 hours.
- Cut out desired pattern from paper or fabric, and determine where it will be placed on the screen. Mark placement using pencil or washable marker if desired.
- If using a paper pattern, pour glue in a flat pan and submerge the paper, right side up, into glue. If using fabric or other stiff material, brush an even coat of decoupage glue onto the back side of the pattern (figure A).
- Apply the pattern to screen as determined in step 3.
- Allow to dry overnight.
- Coat screen with a polyurethane varnish.
Upholstery trim edge molding:
For a stylish, finished look, add an upholstered edge to the top and sides of screen.
- Cut out 1/2"-wide molding in lengths to match the front and sides of the screen. If using 1/4"-wide molding, glue upholstery foam to it for padding.
- Choose a contrasting colored or patterned fabric. Cut fabric to match molding dimensions, adding 1/2" on all sides for wrapping.
- Wrap fabric around molding and glue to back.
- Glue molding to front side of fireplace screen (figure B). Add screws through the back of the molding for extra holding power.
Resources My Name Isn't Martha, But I Can Decorate My Home: The Real Person's Guide...
by Sharon Hanby-Robie
Pocket Books, 1998
Website:
www.sharonhanbyrobie.com Guests Sharon Hanby-Robie
Publicist / Interior Decorator / Author
Website:
www.sharonhanbyrobie.com
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