About Making Stencils

Do you have a pattern or image that you want to reproduce? Do you wonder how to make an architectural element the same size every time it's repeated? Read more and find out information about stencils, which can make the tedious process of reproduction easy.

History

Stencils may have been used as early as 30,000 BC. There is no evidence of the ancient stencils and it is believed that they have perished because of the materials used to create them. Materials used for stencils that have survived throughout history can be found in China and Japan. Artists used stencils to replicate architectural elements on ancient walls in Rome.

Significance

Using stencils is most necessary when a mass production of a pattern or image is needed or when two images must match exactly, such as architectural columns or pottery. A stencil is a thin sheet of material with a shape cut out on it, which is marked on a surface when paint or ink is going to be applied.

Function

Some stencils are applied in layers. The first layer of this type of stencil is the filling inside the stencil area that has been cut out. The second layer is the adding of smaller detail and applied over the top of the first layer. Another role of a stencil is the tracing outside the stencil, creating a perfect outline of the image such as is used in lettering.

Types

Popular stencils are made of cardboard, paper and mylar. Mylar is a stencil film that one can draw or trace the image or pattern onto and begin making stencils. With each different type of stencil the application may differ. Silk screening technique also uses a stencil method with a woven mesh cut out and different elements and colors applied separately. Tattoo artists use self-adhesive stencils decals to transfer the desired image to a persons skin.

Features

There are many parts to stencils that contribute to the complete image or pattern. For instance a flower stencil may have the flower petals, the flower center, and the leaves and stems, which are added and applied separately. Stencils can be made at home or mass-produced at a factory.

Considerations

There are many stencil cutters and parts available. Consider the detail of the finished image when making a stencil; the more detail desired for the finished pattern or image will require more parts of the stencil to cut out.

Benefits

The benefits of using a stencil are that the image or pattern can be replicated hundreds of thousands of times and continue to maintain the original look of the first design from the first production of the image or pattern.

Resources

• History of Stencils
• Dick Blick Stencils