Ed. Note: Good morning everyone! Today is going to be a busy day with not one but TWO recap posts from the 2014 National Stationery Show. But first, I’d like to extend a very warm welcome to a brand new contributor to Oh So Beautiful Paper: Lauren Saylor of A Fabulous Fete! Lauren will stop by to share some fabulous DIY tutorials and party ideas each month, starting today with this DIY hand lettered plexiglass cocktail menu! Welcome Lauren! – Nole

I’ve always had a thing for neon. And even more so when couples incorporate into their weddings and cocktail parties. Neon is such a fun and unexpected pop at a wedding when people are expecting traditional colors and details. So I thought the best place to incorporate this pop of color would be the first stop for guests at any party or reception… the bar! Show friends and family what’s on the menu, your signature cocktail, or even suggestions for simple drinks to get them started. Nole has pages and pages full of cocktail recipes if you need inspiration for your own drink menu, read for links to some favorites and instructions for creating your own signs! – Lauren

Supplies

Acrylic (plexiglass) sheets from the hardware store

Frosted glass window spray paint

Neon spray paint

Paint markers

To make the DIY hand lettered plexiglass cocktail menus: 

Step 1. Start by removing the protective sheets from one side of the acrylic panels, leaving the protective film on the reverse side. Spray a layer of the frosted paint on the exposed side and let dry completely.

Step 2. Follow with a layer of neon paint over the frosted paint on the same side and let dry. Once the neon paint is dry, turn the panel over and remove the protective film from the glossy, unpainted side. If necessary, clean this side with basic window or kitchen cleaner (windex, 409, etc.) to remove any dirt or oil from painting and handling.

Step 3. Write out your menu. Be careful to avoid touching this side of the panel while writing, or the paint may not stick to the acrylic. I used a paper towel under my hand as I wrote to avoid touching.

Tips for lettering your sign

– Since the panel is transparent, you can use a font to create your menu, then print it out and lay it underneath the panel to trace if that is easier.

– Use painters tape for straight lines if needed.

– Make multiple layers with paint pen to get a more opaque look, but make sure each layer is dry first and use a light touch on your 2nd and 3rd pass.

– Don’t want to hand letter? Use letter stickers from the craft store!

If you need some cocktail ideas to get your started, try these from the archives: The Cuba Libre, The Last Ship Home, The Sour, The First Kiss, The Summer Rose… or see them all here.

Now all you have to do is the fun part, style your bar! You can easily change these signs up for any area of your wedding, party, or other event – or even turn it into home decor with a special quote.

Photo Credits: Lauren Saylor of A Fabulous Fete for Oh So Beautiful Paper