A little paint and a Fireplace screen

Sometimes we surround ourselves with things that are just okay. When we decide we want something to knock our socks off it’s time to grab the paint.  That’s right, paint.

simple screen before I got to it

This screen belongs to a client of mine who wanted her simple fireplace screen brought to life.  And boy is it alive now!

This is so simple, here’s what you need:

• decorative paint for colors (I used metallic finish for some sheen)
• small, detail brushes
• high heat resistant clear coat spray paint (I used  car engine enamel)

Once you have the materials, the artwork is up to you.  I slipped a piece of paper between the vines/leaves and the mesh in order to keep the backing clean, leaning it to disappear into the background.  With the paper in place I used reds, deep greens, a bright gold metallic and rich bronze metallics to bring the leaves to life.  I stippled the bronze around the edges of the screen to brighten it up and give it an aged yet smooth finish.  When the artistic work was done I took the screen outside and gave it two meticulous coats of engine enamel – I don’t want the paint bubbling and burning off!

painted leaves on fireplace screen

blend your colors

bronze painted edges of fireplace screen

Boom, plain screen has been transformed into a beautiful art piece.  I’m kinda bummed I have to give it back to my client!  I’ve grown attached to it in my family room.  I just hope she loves it as much as I do!

final painted fireplace screen