Two sisters took their craft classes seriously years ago. Now they can reap what they have sown with their new business.

Last November, Cathy Preyer and Susan Mullins founded Stencil Works, a custom-stenciling business. By next year, they hope to dedicate themselves to their business full time.

The pair offers hand painted and stenciled floors, walls, furniture, and other articles that need a lift, from a simple single image, or an alternative to wallpaper borders. From country to traditional to Victorian, from red to blue to yellow, anything goes; there’s something for all tastes, since each project is one-of-a-kind. They can create the illusion of perfectly potted plants that don’t need water, a dust-free curio shelf, perpetually-fresh hanging vegetables, or a rug that never needs vacuuming.

But more than talent does a business make. The women wanted to start a business, but didn’t know where to begin. Recognizing that they needed some sound advice before plunging into the business world, the sisters contacted the Women’s Business Development Corp., a statewide nonprofit organization that supports women’s entrepreneurship through networking and mentorship.

“It’s good to talk to other people who had no idea about how to start a business,” Cathy said.

Through Prodigy, WBDC’s mentorship program, would-be entrepreneurs are paired with a successful businessperson, who can provide guidance, share contacts, and assist in creating a portfolio. Some mentors are actually former Prodigy participants who want to help aspiring businesswomen as they were helped.

Another WBDC facet, Working Capital is a peer-lending group that can help applicants secure startup capital, build a credit history, and form a network with other businesspeople. Though funds are actually derived from a bank or foundation, the group makes all funding decisions, oversees credit distribution and collection, and provides training and support. All group members must be current on their loan payments before new loans may be approved.

The artists have dedicated the summer to securing insurance and preparing for their open house, which will showcase their biggest job to date.

Interior designers and homeowners who are considering renovations are invited to an open house on Aug. 27 from noon to 7 p.m. at the Bilodeau home at 96 Ohio Street in Bangor. Guests will view a custom-stenciled hallway, living room and staircase. The artists will make a presentation and will display their portfolio of work they have completed.

Susan said that the Bilodeau house project was personally fulfilling. When they had finished, she exclaimed, “Wow, look what we did! I always wanted to work doing something I enjoy.”