How to Make Your Own Printable Stencils

Stencils are popular for tracing and painting with precision. They are lifesavers for those of us who are not artists but still like to create art, and they are even advantageous for artists who want to create quick and easy duplicates of prior designs. You can purchase stencils at most any craft store, but sometimes finding the exact one that you have in mind can be difficult. Luckily, you can make your own printable stencils with the appropriate supplies.

Things You'll Need

• Image editing software
• Printer
• Acetate paper
• Cardboard
• Craft knife

Instructions

1. Open the image editing software of your choice and create an image or text of which you would like to create a stencil.

2. Print the stencil on acetate paper and allow the ink to dry for approximately 10 minutes before proceeding to Step 3.

3. Place the stencil on a piece of cardboard and use a craft knife to cut away the section of the stencil in which you will trace or paint.

Tips & Warnings

• Simple line art drawings work best as stencils and are easier to cut.

• Locate an image online that you would like to create a stencil of and print it out if you'd rather not create your own with image editing software

• Beware of touching the ink on the acetate paper before it is completely dry because it is susceptible to smudging when wet.

Resources

• Utrecht: Acetate Paper & Boards
• Pergamano: Templates, Stencil
• Line Art Drawings