A Touch of {Southern} Charm: Chevron DIY

The trend this spring and summer is definitely chevron print! The fun zig-zag pattern is every where - from clothing to home décor even nail art {who seriously has the time and steady hand to paint their nails so intricately?!}

This spring I was bit by the creative bug and decided that chevron prints would be a fun way to spice up my office. Now, conceptually I am a very creative person... practically, not so much. After a week of taping, painting, re-painting, touching up, swearing off arts and crafts for good, and touching up some more, I ended up with the finished products below:

Finished products! The center one was actually my tester, but I though it turned out cute as an accent.

I decided for my office, being in the technology marketing field, that rather than using my monogram, which I though was a little too personal for the work place, I would use the special characters for ampersand (&) and the email "at" symbol (@).

Here's what you need:
Canvases {I used 2 16 X 20 and 1 8 X 10}
At least 3 Paint Colors {I decided that I would use spray paint because it would be quicker. However, I did not account for the wet spray paint running beneath the tape or pealing off with the tape. In hindsight, it is probably better to use acrylic paints instead}
Foam Board or Wooden Letters {I could not find the characters precut so I made my own}

Spray Adhesive

Here's how to do it:

Paint your entire canvas your base color {in my example, I used a cream for my base}.
Once your base paint color dries, tape off your chevron pattern. I referenced this guide on how to measure out my print: http://pinterest.com/pin/209206345162391130/. Because I wanted a thicker print, I used 2 inch tape {use painters tape instead of masking tape so the paint doesn't run under the tape}.
Paint the exposed canvas your complimentary color {blue in my example} and let dry.
Remove your tape and do any necessary touch ups to either colors. Because I used spray paint and had issues with it running under the masking tape initially, I actually had to repaint everything in my base color. Hopefully you will have better results -- trial and error, right.
If desired, trim the chevron pattern in black to better accentuate the pattern {and to hide some small smudges}. I actually used a Sharpie instead of paint.

For the characters, if you can't find precut letters, print off a template in the font you like {I used Curlz for a fun spin}. Cut out your template letters and trace onto foam your foam board. Using an exact-o knife, carefully cut out your letter/character. Use scissors to correct any rough edges. Paint with a second complimentary color {in my example I used aqua}. Once dry, spray the back of the letter with spray adhesive and stick to the center of your canvas.

I was pleased with the finished product and think they bring a little cheer to my workspace! I was also excited that my Mom found this cute little "@" at Home Goods to add to my décor and recently I stumbled upon this adorable lampshade at the Dollar General! What luck to find my colors in a chevron print!