Monograms can turn an ordinary item into something special, while adding a personalized and stylish touch. They can be used on anything from clothes, picture frames, even door mats, but if you’ve priced them, you know it can sometimes be expensive. So, in this week’s Decorator Detail, which is where I highlight a quick DIY project on a budget, I’m sharing how you can create the monogrammed look on a toss pillow for much less.

Begin first by going to your local arts and crafts store and purchasing an alphabet stencil kit. They come in different sizes and font styles, so chose your preference. To save money, you can even make your own stencil at home with your computer—just enlarge the font size of any letter and once you print it out, cut out the outline.    

At the craft store, also buy fabric paint, which come in small bottles for less than $2. It's important to use fabric paint, because regular paint won’t hold up in the washing machine. Also, look for a toss pillow cover with a zipper that allows you to remove the insert or filling because you need a flat surface while stenciling. IKEA has a great selection of solid colors and down inserts.     

Now, two things to keep in mind before you begin painting: 1) Place a piece of cardboard inside the cover, to prevent the the paint from bleeding to the other side of the fabric; and 2) Use a stencil brush, which has a flat-head and requires a tapping or pouncing technique that prevents paint from seeping underneath the stencil. The goal is to achieve sharp, crisp lines like a true professional.  Practice on some fabric remnants before you begin.

And there you go … not only is the project super easy, but fun, too!  In the pillow featured here, I added polka dots and vibrant colors because the room belonged to teenage girls. But you can also make it more elegant for a master suite by using black paint and script lettering, and by embellishing the edges of the pillow further with cording or fringe detail. It's a great project for any room of the house, and the possibilities are endless!