In our series of stencil how-to's and facts we want to include this long time favorite post. Stenciling on fabric is a little different than on wood or walls. Because fabric is porous and has some give to it (stretch), you have to be things a little differently. Let's get started and you'll see what I mean!
Stencil How-to's: Supplies
- Paper plate
- Stencil
- Acrylic Paint– Decor Art Americana or Apple Barrel Acrylic Paints
- Stencil Brush
- Tape– masking or painters tape
- Freezer Paper
- Paper Towel
1. Surface to be stenciled should be clean and painted with a non-glossy paint. If using fabrics, pre-wash them (warning: some colors may become deeper when ironed). Different fabrics absorb paint differently – practice on a sample piece of the fabric you intend to use.
2. Practice stenciling on freezer paper. You can practice color and pressure variations by doing this first.
3. Using your stencil brush, dip into the paint (use a paper plate if needed for paint). Blot off excess paint onto paper towel until brush is “dry” and seems almost out of paint.
4. Position your stencil – I used a scrap of tea stained muslin. You can hold it in place if it's a small area to stencil, otherwise you might want to use low-tack tape.
5. Apply light pressure with your brush and begin filling in the stencil with a light circular motion. I work from the outside – in. Go around the outside of the design and work your way in towards the middle.
6. To re-load the brush, dip in paint and again brush until almost completely dry. It's better to make several applications of dry paint than use too much paint and over-do the project.
7. remove the stencil and your project is done.
Tutorial submitted by Cindy of www.homespunfromtheheart.com
