How to Make a Template for Sign Fabric

Cut a fabric sign stencil from a roll of polyester film.

Templates for fabric signs are made from polyester film/stencil sheeting. Polyester film, known by many as Mylar, is available on rolls in several types, grades, thicknesses and finishes. The width of the polyester film is determined by the size template desired. Check with the local hobby and craft store or on the Internet to attain a role of polyester film that adequately fulfills the signage needs. Store the polyester film template flat on a horizontal plane after use.

Things You'll Need

• Polyester film
• Permanent marker
• Craft knife
• Quilter's cutting mat
• Large letter stencils

Instructions

1. Determine the size of the printed area on the sign. Cut a piece of polyester film 12 inches larger than the worded area. For example, if the wording is to cover a 3-by-4-foot section of the fabric sign, cut the polyester film 4 feet by 5 feet.

2. Lay the polyester film on a clean, flat and stable work surface. Smooth any wrinkles by running your hand over the surface of the film.

3. Center the letter stencils on the polyester film. Trace inside the stencils with a permanent marker. Remove the stencils.

4. Place the quilter's cutting mat under the first few letters. Cut through the polyester film into the quilter's mat. Cut along the lines. Remove the unwanted film. Cutting into a quilter's cutting mat helps prevent the craft-knife blade from going dull. Repeat the process with the remaining letters.

5. Center the stencil over the top of the fabric sign. The stencil is ready to use.

References

• Free Stenciling Patterns: Cut a Stencil

Resources

• Grafix Plastics: Mylar Film and Sheet Properties