How to Draw and Cut Stencils Out on a Computer
Stenciling is an art form that applies paint through openings in a template to form a picture or design. A stenciled design can add personality to a room, create an original greeting card or adorn a trendy t-shirt. You can create your own one-color stencil using your personal computer and transparency inserts. All you need is a little imagination and a few simple steps.
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Things You'll Need
- Clip art
- Computer transparencies
- Craft knife
- Cutting board
- Sandpaper
- Paint
- Stencil brush
- Tape
- Paper towels
Instructions
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Creating Your Stencil
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1
Select an image from your computer graphics clip art. Choose one that has a strong contrast and very little detail for the best results.
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2
Break the clip art apart using your graphics program to separate the image into positive shapes that do not touch one another. Bridges where the transparency film will remain will separate the shapes.
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3
Print your design onto the transparency paper, being careful to follow any manufacturer's instructions.
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4
Place the transparency on the cutting board and use a craft knife to cut out all the positive shapes, being careful not to cut the bridges of film between shapes. Turning the image, as you work, will assure a smooth, even cut and make it easier to reach corners.
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5
Use your sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges and your design is ready to stencil.
Applying Your Stencil
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6
Secure your stencil to the wall, card stock or other surface with tape to keep it in place as you work.
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7
Daub a small amount of paint with your stencil brush. Remove any excess paint with paper towels.
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8
Paint your stencil using thin layers and a circular motion, being careful not to get paint under the edges of the template.
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References
- Photo Credit flower background image by NataV from Fotolia.com
