(NAPSA)—It can be easy to FA make “ho hum” wooden furniture sing with personality by using exte- 5 rior wood stains to add colorful designs. Stencils, free form painting and bold colors— these are just a few ways outdoor wood has become more exciting than ever. From fences and stair risers to benches and Adirondack chairs, do-it-yourselfers | can create custom “ \ \ looks without special skills or harsh expenses. “Now that people have realized how inexpensive it is to personalize their outdoor living space, the possibilities are endless,” says Doreen Pearl, professional decorator, Hudson, Ohio. “The cost? A creative idea and a few gallons of stain. You're only limited by your imagination.” A popular project is to stain Adirondack chairs with stencils that complement your deck. Vines, flowers and geometric shapes are some of the more fashionable patterns, but several alternatives exist for incorporating the outdoor dcor. If your fence surrounds a Japanese rock garden, consider stenciling Japanese lettering up the posts. For those who can’t get enough of the ocean, try stenciling seashells andstarfish. Pearl recommends Flood brand stain over paint because of its long-lasting durability. Flood Solid Color Deck and Siding Stain is guaranteed against peeling on vertical surfaces such as posts and doorways for 15 years and for five years on horizontal surfaces. Flood’s Semi-Transparent Stain is guaranteed against fading and peeling for three years on decks and five years on siding. “A solid color stain gives the best effect because of its color and opaqueness,” says Pearl. “And while you want the chairs’ colors to complement the house, you can take someartistic license when accessorizing.” While you may have to search for the ideal stencil, finding the perfect color won’t take as long. Flood’s Semi-Transparent Stains come in colors such as Falling Leaf, Salmon, Rain Dance and Night Sky, while Solid Color Stains include Aztec Brown and Sea Shell. For additional help with prepping and staining exterior wood, call The Flood Company at 1-800321-3444. The Flood Company’s technical service representatives provide immediate answers—even on weekends, including Sundays, during peak staining season. Customers can also request Flood’s Can-Do guide, a “how-to” booklet that provides consumers with a worry-free experience for exterior wood care projects. In addition, Flood’s Web site (www.floodco.com) also offers product and professional help. For more information or to receive a free Can-Do guide, call The Flood Company at 1-800-3213444 or visit www.floodco.com.
