Stencilling is an old and lovely craft with many applications. It is the process of applying paint through a cut-out design. Stencils can be used on tablecloths, sheets, pillowcases, walls, furniture, clothing - the list is virtually endless.





You will need:
Plastic or thick Manilla cardboard for the stencil
Sharp craft knife or scalpel for cutting
Stencil
Bread board or similar for a cutting surface
Stencil brushes
Paints
Masking tape
Fabric for practice and testing colours

Here's how:
1. Place clear plastic over motif to be copied and trace around design, or trace off design and transfer to cardboard. Cut stencils out using sharp knife.

2. Define stencil areas that will be the same colour by covering all other areas with masking tape. Continue to do this until whole stencil has been coloured.

3. Taking care to paint the elements in the logical order (main colour first then details), start painting from the outside, gradually filling in the entire area until you are happy with the depth of colour.



Design Tips:
For cutting out a stencil, use firm, clear plastic sheeting, such as plastic dividers for binders, or sheets of thick Manilla cardboard, coated with a mixture of 50% turpentine and 50% boiled linseed oil. Hang sheets up to dry and wipe thoroughly before using.

To heat-seal colours, iron the back when dry or use a very hot hair dryer on the paint surface.

Choose a paint that is appropriate for the surface you are stencilling. If working on wood, select a quick-drying paint with only a little water.

If repeating a pattern, for example around a wall or across fabric, measure out each position before painting. Reposition the stencil accurately each time.

Use masking tape to hold the stencil in place while you are painting. Be sure to keep tape clear of area to be stencilled.

Stencil brushes are flat and thick, with a level surface, because the best way of applying paint is by tapping the brush down onto the space to be painted. Before painting, remove excess paint from the brush with a rag.