Design: Majestic Elephant by Dare To Be You Designs

DARE TO BE YOU DESIGNS – Marlis Walker

“My name is Marlis Walker and I just purchased a home in Bella Vista, AR in December 2020. (Yep, during Covid, but when it’s meant to be, it all works out!) I’m still part time Oklahoma, and I have children in both places.

I started painting in 2017 and started canvas painting in 2010 at the at of 60

My FB business page is “Dare To Be You Designs by Marlis,” as this is truly what I feel in my heart. Sometimes it takes all the gumption you have to just step up and step out of your comfort zone and Dare To Be You!

I am self-taught artist, blessed with a few people in my life that believed in me until I could believe in myself and I am forever grateful. It is my goal to pay this forward.”

HOW TO DECOUPAGE…

PREPARE YOUR SURFACE: You can decoupage on pretty much any surface. We do recommend that you ensure any surface that is slick or has oil be cleaned with a degreaser.

PAINT SURFACE: Paint the surface with chalk, mineral or acrylic based paint.

APPLY BGY ARTISAN PAPER: We recommend using a water based polyacrylic or mod podge medium when applying our paper. Work in small sections with a thin layer of medium. Before moving onto the next section be sure to work out any wrinkles or bubbles in the paper. For the best results use a brayer or card to help remove any wrinkles or bubbles.

SAND: For a flawless look we recommend that you sand down the edges of the paper with a 220 grit sand paper.

FINISHING TOUCHES: You items such as furniture, you can continue blending the paint with the paper. Once finished seal with the poly acrylic. For other items, seal with the poly acrylic. Keep in mind that the paper will bubble when the poly acrylic is reapplied. Once dry the bubbles will dissipate.