How to Make a Framed Monogram

The idea for this monogram has been rolling around in my head for quite some time but getting around to actually doing something has taken longer. Yesterday morning I finished the course work for my Medieval History - exam on the 7th of June, so I rewarded myself by making this monogram for above our bed. Call me paranoid, but I don't like having anything heavy above the bed - too many earthquake scares. This piece does not have glass in it.

First choose a font. I wanted something flowing, but not too elaborate. This French Script MT seemed just right to me. A less curvy script like Verdana or Arial would give a more modern, graphic look. I printed out the letters, T, L, and O on 8 x 11 paper. The T and L are size 500, the O, 800. 

Cut out the letters. I find using a small pair of scissors, like these suture scissors, easiest.

For the background, lightly spray a piece of white board with silver paint. I did not cover the board completely because I wanted a mottled effect to give some texture. Let it dry.

Arrange the cut out letters on the board, then trace them lightly in pencil.

Paint the letters using black acrylic craft paint. It took two coats to cover thoroughly. A black marker could also be used.

Et voilà, a simple, inexpensive monogram. The size is about 16 x 20 (inside), and I chose that size because I had an old frame I wanted to use. Changing the font size means you can make your monogram the size to fit any frame you might have.

I'm encouraging a serene and simple feeling in the master bedroom and I'm very pleased with the way this looks. The silver paint on the mat is almost the same colour as the gray walls.