I’ve been exploring the wonderful world of stencils lately and experimented with creating my own. Now I know you can purchase fancy equipment to create custom stencils but they are veeeerrrryyyy expensive and I wanted to try and make a stencil with what I had in the studio already.
Well I started thinking about creating a stencil from paper – remember making those gorgeous paper snowflakes – so ran with the idea and made a few “snowflakes” and other “cut-paper” stencils. My fave turned out to be the snowflake with circles punched out.
So basically I folded my paper into a small triangle and punched out circles with my hand punch. This made a great pattern when I unfolded it and looked amazing overlaying another stencil.
There are a few limitations with paper stencils and I’ll have a full article on stencils in an upcoming issue of The Polymer Studio. Keep a look out.
Great use of stencils. I cut mine from Tyvek envelopes which are really tough.
Hi Leslie, that’s a great idea. They would be really strong too hey. Awesome suggestion, thanks.
If you use polypropylene like document /protectors, covers, and cut it or punch out designs, you can use them over and over, even wash paint or other mediums off them
Yes that’s a great idea too Pauline. I like to use acetate as well. There are so many products which don’t cost a fortune that are great for creating stencils hey. Thanks so much for your suggestion.
I never thought about using snowflakes. What a simple idea, that I never would have thought of.
Thanks for an awesome tip.
My absolute pleasure Donna. xx
Awesome idea. Why didn’t I think of it? Because I’m not Debbie! Seriously, thank you for that little lightbulb moment!
haha you are more than welcome Joey. x
Hi Debbie, Sounds like a great idea. I have always liked stencils and did many interiors of homes with professional stencils with anywhere from 2-4 overlays. When I did my stencils you would think they were hand painted as I used a great deal of shading. I did quite a few homes and really enjoyed it, however when I developed arthritis I was unable to get up on a ladder. I still have many of these expensive stencils and some that cost close to a $100. I also love working with Polymer Clay especially flowers. I also make indoor fairy… Read more »
Wow sounds like you’ve had an amazing career and what an exciting job. Glad to hear you’re not climbing those ladders anymore. xx