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If you are someone who is confident in their freehand ability, you can certainly skip this step. However, if you aren't confident in your freehanding and want to ensure that you get perfect, even letters, you can design them on a computer. Using Microsoft Word, you can type in your letters and then trace them onto the wood. Open Microsoft Word, click on the "File" menu, and select "Page Setup." Select the paper size that matches the size of the wood you'll be painting, or enter in your own custom size. Type your lettering in the document, however you want it to look on the wood. Because the page is set to the size of the wood, you can design it with the proper measurements in mind. Print your document. You can find pre-cut stencils at your local craft store, and they are perfect for painting letters on wood. You can also order these stencils online if you are looking for a very particular size or font. For best results, you will also need a stencil paintbrush, as well as spray adhesive. Take your time to line up the stencil onto the wood, exactly as you want your lettering to line up. Use a pencil to mark up the stencil to show where it should lay on the wood. Shake your can of spray adhesive, and then spray a light coat on the stencil. This will allow it to stick to the wood, ensuring that it doesn't shift or smear during the painting process. Once your stencil is stuck to the wood, use your stencil brush to gently dab acrylic paint onto the wood, through the stencil. Allow your paint to dry for a few minutes before peeling the stencil off the wood.

Summary:
Design your lettering. Purchase some letter stencils.