Stencils have come a long way from the chunky plastic pieces that children use to trace letters and shapes. You can use stencils to create borders and designs on walls, paint the same patterns on multiple T-shirts — useful in creating uniforms for a team — completing a stylized design for artwork, and more. Take stenciling classes to learn about all of the possibilities that this technique has to offer.
Resurrect a plain, drab canvas chair by using fabric paint and stencils to give it a fresh new pattern. Use spray paint over a stencil for quick and even patterns or letters. Spare yourself the pain of applying a wallpaper border in a room you are redecorating. Use stencils to recreate the border with paint. You can easily personalize your décor through this technique.
In this class, you will learn how to properly and effectively use stencils. For example, tape a stencil onto your art surface to secure it, ensuring a perfect print every time. Dab the paint into the stencil instead of brushing, which minimizes the chance for error. Use less paint to avoid unsightly blobs or bleeding outside the stencil lines. Mark off stencil parts with painter’s tape if you want to use different colors of paint within the same pattern. Clean your stencils after each use to ensure their longevity. You will also learn how to create your own stencils. Through instruction, you will be able to cut out the shape you need using a razor blade on thick plastic to create your own custom stencil work.