Make a Bold Barn Quilt in 3 Easy Layers! 🎨🇺🇸

Patriotic Barn Quilt Stencil DIY with Melissa Miller

Looking for a bold and beautiful summer decor project? Melissa Miller of Millers Rustic Sawmill shared an inspiring live tutorial using the new Layering Patriotic Barn Quilt (3pk) stencil set from Essential Stencil. This layered wood sign is full of Americana charm and rustic vibes—perfect for 4th of July and beyond.

Table of Contents

• Project Overview
• Materials Needed
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Helpful Tips
• Final Touch: Gel Stain Finish

Project Overview

Melissa created a charming reversible 8x8 barn quilt block using the Layering Patriotic Barn Quilt (3pk) stencil set. This project includes three stencil layers: navy, red, and white—each carefully aligned to build the traditional quilt star pattern. She finishes the piece with a rustic gel stain for an aged, primitive look.

Materials Needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Wood Base

Melissa used an 8x8 piece of plywood. Leave it raw for now, as the stain will be added at the end.

2. Align Layer 1 and Stencil with Navy Paint

Mark guide points with pencil and tape down the stencil securely.

Stencil using True Navy acrylic paint, offloading onto a coffee filter to prevent bleeding.

3. Apply Layer 2 with Red Paint

Align Layer 2 using the pencil marks and stencil with True Red. Let it dry.

4. Finish Layer 3 with White Paint

Align Layer 3 and stencil with Snow White.

Helpful Tips

Final Touch: Gel Stain Finish

Melissa added a rustic touch using mahogany gel stain. With a rag and gloves, she rubbed the stain over the stenciled piece to give it an aged, primitive feel.

Let it dry completely before flipping or displaying. Melissa recommends this for reversible decor—she plans to stencil the back with a different patriotic design next week!

Watch the Full Tutorial:

Ready to try this beautiful project? Grab your Layering Patriotic Barn Quilt stencil set and create timeless Americana decor for your home.