How to Stencil

Stenciling is a very old technique and comes in many design forms. Stencils come in precut designs, some very simple and others more complex. The same technique is used for all types of stencils. Try stenciling to embellish an accessory or furniture. Have fun and enjoy. For more how-to guides and fun information go to www.organicbagsonline.com

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• precut stencils of your choice
• artist's white repositionable tape
• paint trays
• tube acrylics (any colors)
• stencil brushes (small, med and large
• paper towels
• flat or semi-gloss latex paint

1. Position the stencil on the surface where you want your design. Use the white tape to secure it in place.

2. Put some of each acrylic color on a paint tray. Pick up a small amount of the paint on the top of a dry stencil brush. You cannot stencil with a damp or wet brush because the moisture will cause the paint to bleed beneath the stencil. Swirl the brush on a paper towel, which you have folded in quarters, to disperse the paint in the brush and also to remove any excess color. You don't want to have a lot of paint in the brush because it will bleed under the stencil. If you are using multiple colors, you should have a separate brush for each hue. This will save you having to wash the brush frequently and wait for it to dry.

3. Begin stenciling by placing the brush at the outside edge of the stencil element. Apply the paint in a circular motion. This is a standard stenciling brushing technique that will prevent you from pushing paint under the stencil. Concentrate the color at the edge of the stencil. If you want to shade or highlight the stencil shape at its edges, do so at this point before you move the stencil.

4. Move the stencil to the next area where you want to place an element. Secure the stencil in place with tape and repeat steps 2 and 3 until your overall design is complete.

Tips & Warnings

• You can stencil walls, furniture, accessories and with the holidays approaching you can do lots of creative projects. Stencil your pumpkins! For more fun how-to guides and information go to www.organicbagsonline.com Thank you

[StacyP]

on 10/24/2008 Thanks for the tips! Stenciling is one of those things I've been wanting to try.