The Tribune

By Teri M. Bethel

In the 70’s, I vividly recall the fashion prints with beautiful bold stripes. The Rugby Jersey’s had them, so did our blouses and even top designer blazers. They seemed to be everywhere. They were splashed across magazines and of course the mega department store catalogues. One of my favourites was the thick horizontal stripes in navy blue and white: a classic for sure.

Some fashion elements seem never to fade in their stylishness; I believe stripes must be somewhere at the top of the useful design elements list. Whether you are creating a floral design or a mixture of several design elements, adding stripes can be quite an interesting resting spot in your design.

To create stripes you can wing it with a flat brush and a steady hand or you can go for a more precise look by using painter’s tape. Follow the instructions below and you’ll be painting remarkable stripes with ease.

Step 1. Apply a generous amount of fabric paint to your surface. With your brush spread and cover the surface as though you are creating a smooth background. Allow the paint to dry.

Step 2. Determine how far apart you wish to have your stripes. If precision is required use a ruler, measure and mark out exactly where you would like to place your stripes. Draw light lines in a concealed area so that your markings do not interfere with the design. Connect your tape to each of your top and bottom points. Firmly place the painters tape in the position you would like to have your stripes.

Step 3. Paint over the areas that do not have the tape. Carefully remove the tape from the fabric while the paint is still wet if you are using dimensional paints; with non-dimensional paints the tape can be removed after it dries.

Voila. You have just created a set of beautiful stripes.

• Teri M. Bethel is a texture painting & handbag instructor. She is the designer of Teri Monique Handbags, a line of custom made art purses for ladies. For more insights visit us at:  http://www.paintwithtexture.com Tel: 242-676-4474