How to Apply a Rub-On Stencil

Use a pencil or a crayon to create bold rub-on stencil transfers.

Rub-on stencils offer an alternative way to add images to homemade greeting cards, homemade stationery and many other paper crafts. Rub-on stencils allow you to create negative images of the designs that are impressed on their surfaces. The process is very different from the process used to apply regular stencils. Learn to properly apply a rub-on stencil to start decorating cards or other craft projects.

Things You'll Need

• Rub-on stencil
• Clear tape
• Paper
• Pencil or crayon

Instructions

1. Place your rub-on stencil (image side up) onto a flat surface and tape the flat edges to the surface with some clear tape. This will hold your stencil in place and avoid a smeared design.

2. Place your paper over the stencil. Position it so that the stencil is located directly under the area of the paper where you want your design to be and hold it firmly in place with one hand.

3. Hold your pencil near the point or end so the side of the lead or crayon is on the paper. Rub the side of the pencil or crayon gently over the area of the paper that is above the stencil. The design from the stencil will appear on the paper.

Tips & Warnings

• Do rubbings of any textured surface to make designs on paper. Gravestone rubbings are a popular way to remember loved ones. To do a gravestone rubbing, hold your paper over the name on the stone instead of a stencil.