DIY Washi Tape Paper Mache Letters Cafe Sign

Hi guys – Lindsay here from Shrimp Salad Circus. I’m excited to share a project with you today while Sarah’s away on her big, exciting move! I’ve managed to get past my jealousy long enough to bring you a fun — and appropriately-timed — home decor tutorial.

But first, a fun fact about me: I drink about 3-4 cups of coffee most days, but only decaf.

If you haven’t died of shock (I know, I know – who can live without their caffeine fix, right?!), then let’s talk coffee. It’s such an integral part of so many of our days that I thought my coffee and all its accoutrements deserved their own little nook! Read on for a fun, super easy way to create a really customizable ‘cafe’ sign to create your own coffee corner.

Supplies: Paper Mache Letters / Black Acrylic Paint / Foam Paintbrush / Martha Stewart Paper Tape / Mod Podge

Step 1: Squeeze some black acrylic paint into a dish. Dip a foam brush into the paint, and cover the front and sides of the letter. Don’t worry about the back, since it won’t show anyway. Repeat with each letter, and set them aside to dry for about ten minutes.

Step 2: Add another thin coat of paint to each letter. Let them dry again. They should look really solidly black
now. Touch up any spots that aren’t totally opaque.

Step 3: Apply the paper tape in a fun pattern to each letter. You could do even stripes, or you could just go wild. The tape comes in different widths. Use the different sizes to add some visual interest to your letters.

Step 4: Make sure all the tape is pressed down really well, with no edges peeling up. Using a clean, dry foam brush, apply a thin coat of Mod Podge over the entire painted surface of each letter. You can use the matte formula like I did, or you could use the glossy for a shiny finish.

Step 5: Display your letters! You can set them on a table or shelf, or hang them up using a removable adhesive. They’re super lightweight, so they should hold up without anything heavy duty.