How to Use a Stencil Burner

Stencil burners are a common tool used in crafting projects. The stencil burner is a thin pen-like piece that plugs into an outlet and heats up. Used to burn stencil lines into a variety of materials, stencil burners are easy to work with and produce precision cut circles, curves and jagged edges. When working with a stencil burner for the first time, it is a good idea to practice a few times on a piece of scrap wood until you get a feel for how it works.

Things You'll Need

• Stenciling material (mylar, plastic, wood, glass, etc.)
• Thick beveled edge piece of glass
• Large glass or metal tray
• Masking tape
• Soap
• Hot water
• Cotton cloth

Instructions

1. Plug the stencil burner in and allow it to heat up completely. Place a few pieces of masking tape on the bottom of the tray and set the tray on the work surface next to the stencil burner. Apply light pressure to the tray to make sure it is held in place on the work surface. Place the heated stencil burner on the tray.

2. Lay the piece of glass on the work surface. Place the stencil material on top of the piece of glass. Set the burner down on the tray as necessary while working to prevent burns.

3. Place the stencil burner in your hand the same way you would hold a pen. Hold the burner very gently and avoid using pressure. Move the burner towards you and pull it gently over the stencil design. Tilt the burner so that the handle is held straight up when working on fine lines.

4. Keep the burner moving, never allowing it to remain in one spot on the stencil material. Use quick strokes and avoid working too slowly, which can result in squiggly rather than crisp lines. Adjust the stencil material as needed while you work. Turn it as you go so that the lines you are working on are directly in front of you. Repeat the process a second time if necessary to darken lines that are too light or increase shading.

5. Unplug the stencil burner and allow it to cool completely. Wipe the tip of the burner with a cloth dipped in hot, soapy water to remove any residue.

References

• PJ Stencils: How to Cut a Stencil
• Snazaroo: Stencil FAQ's