How to Make Your Own Stencil for Fabric Painting

It's so easy to design your own stencils and have fabulous looking hand painted clothing.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• a sharp x-acto knife
• freezer paper
• an iron
• fabric paint
• a sponge applicator
• a pencil
• a design idea

1. 
    

   cut a square from your freezer paper to fit the size you want your design to be.

2. Draw your design on the non shiny side with a pencil.

3. 
    

   Cut your main shapes that will be painted with the x-acto knife. I find it is easiest to keep the knife in one place and move the paper around it.

4. Iron your freezer paper onto your garment shiny side down. I put the iron on medium or to the middle and this works well. I usually put a paper towel between the iron and the paper. After about a minute of moving the iron around the paper should be securely stuck to the fabric. Place another piece of freezer paper in the center of your shirt to avoid bleed through.

5. Paint the stencil using your fabric paint. Dab the paint on with the sponge making sure to cover every open space.

6. Let dry for a few hours and then iron again for a minute to heat set the paint. Use a paper towel in between the iron and the fabric.

7. 
    

   Enjoy your creation.

Tips & Warnings

• if you are using new garments remember to pre-wash your fabric before you paint.

Resources

• Craftologist