Reader Melissa White wrote in to share photos and a
description of daughter Cameron's birthday party, with its delightful
decorations.
Melissa incorporated colorful dots on the invitations, handmade
tablecloth, cake, party favors, and plates. "I began with the
invitation, and the theme sort of snowballed from there," she says with
a laugh.
Following her lead, we came up with our own fanciful spring fling.
Here we show you how to create the plates. For the other ideas, check
out the spring issue of Decorating Step-by-Step, on sale at newsstands
in late April.
Step 1: Make a stencil by using a craft knife to cut out
circles from a sheet of kraft paper. Use a compass to make
different-size circles.
Step 2: Wash plates thoroughly to remove any grease or dust.
Dry glass completely.
Step 3: Position stencil on underside of plate, and use
masking tape to adhere firmly in place. Working over a protected
tabletop, brush a thick layer of the etching cream onto the plate. Allow
cream to dry according to manufacturer's instructions. (Note: Do not use
cream on food surface. Also, follow the etching cream safety
precautions, and work in a well-ventilated area. Wear long sleeves,
gloves, and safety glasses.)
Step 4: Rinse plate with warm water to completely remove the
etching cream. Take off masking tape and stencil, and then wash plate
thoroughly with soapy water. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 for the remaining
plates.
Step 5: Apply a small amount of glass paint onto a clean
cloth, and rub on etched areas to stain color onto the plates. This may
take two or three attempts to get the desired depth of color. Let dry
according to manufacturer's instructions. If there is any residual
paint, wait 24 hours to wash with a soft cloth or sponge. The color will
stay only on etched areas. (Note: Hand wash these plates only.)
To see a great idea for dividing your living space, see "Shutters
Provide Solutions" on page 126 of the March 2003 issue of Southern Living.
