A Custom Lightswitch Cover
by Monica Resinger - Plantldy98@aol.com

Description: How to make custom lightswitch covers to accent any room of your home.

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We remodeled our bathroom recently and when it was time to choose our switch plate covers, we were overwhelmed with the variety and prices of them. We wanted out-of-the-ordinary light switch covers but didn't want to pay the price -- and besides, we couldn't find any that matched our decor out of all that variety!

So what we did was purchase plain unfinished wood ones and I painted them to match our decor. We did our bathroom decor in rich jewel tone colors with brass accents so I decided to paint the light switch covers in dark blue with gold stars. We love the `custom homemade' look of them and it was very easy to accomplish. Below you'll find step by step instructions for how to do this.

Before beginning this project, decide on the color and design of your cover. Try to include colors and design elements that are already in the room then go purchase your materials.

Materials:

~ unfinished wood light switch covers (can be found in do-it-yourself stores)
~ acrylic paint in your choice of colors (found in craft stores or craft sections in retail stores)
~ small foam stamps of your choice (found in craft stores or craft sections in retail stores)
~ spray clear acrylic (found in craft stores or craft sections in retail stores) -- optional

Instructions:

Prepare a work surface by laying newspaper down on a large area then...

1. Base coat the cover with the color of your choice. You will probably need at least a second coat, maybe a third. Let each coat dry before applying the next.

2. Stamp on your design. First, plan your design, then practice stamping. To do this, using a small paintbrush, paint the acrylic paint onto the stamp then press onto paper firmly but being careful not to turn it to get a smudge. Once you are comfortable with the feel of it, then go ahead and stamp your design onto the base-painted switch cover.

3. If desired spray with clear acrylic for protection and easy cleaning. This is best done outside on a piece of cardboard or newspaper. Let dry then put the light switch covers on as usual (a good job for hubby).

Don't think this is the only way to decorate your switch covers. You can sponge paint them, paint on free-hand designs, decoupage or whatever else may inspire you. This is just one idea to get your imagination going. Have fun with it.

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