How to Make Stencils

How to Make Stencils How to Make Stencils Stenciled pattern can be put to several applications. You can use attractive patterns to beautify or decorate your walls, furniture and also cabinets. However, finding just the right pattern may not be easy. If you too cannot find stencils that could perfectly match your décor, make your own stencil. Its really easy. All you need to do is invest some time and few materials. To know how to make stencils read the given below instructions. Following are some easy-to-follow instructions that will guide you to make stencils.

Instructions

Start by finding interesting patterns. Look out for different sources that could provide you with such patterns like wallpaper, fabrics or any other source. While choosing the desired design, go for patterns that have disconnected parts. This will make your tracing work easier. In case the pattern is interlocking, make sure to divide it into different parts yourself.
Once you have selected the pattern, place a sheet of tracing paper over it and start drawing it. Use soft-tipped pencil or fine-point marker to trace the pattern. If the pattern is too big for the tracing paper, draw different parts of it on different pieces. For instance, if your design includes grapes in a basket, draw the grapes individually and draw the basket as a separate shape that does not touch the grapes. This way it will be easier for you to line up your stencil pattern.
After tracing the pattern, add desired color to your pattern. It will help you to know if you like the stencil and the colors that you plan to use. If you have an intricate pattern with different colors close together, prefer making separate stencil for each color. This will ensure you don not paint the wrong color in the wrong area.
Place the different parts of the design to an illustration board or smooth cardboard. Use spray glue for sticking the parts such that it forms a thin coat and does not buckle the paper.
Now cut a piece of stencil paper, about 2 inches larger than the traced design. Properly tape the edges of the stencil paper to the cardboard with the help of masking tape. Make sure the paper is properly secured over the design.
With a craft knife cut the stencil paper following the design. Start cutting the shapes in the interior of the design and gradually work your way out. While cutting the pattern use a single stroke per line and keep applying steady pressure.
Once the pattern has been cut properly remove the masking tape carefully from the stencil and lift the stencil from the board.
Your stencil is ready; keep it safely in a folder for later use.