How to Use a Quilting Stencil
My mother in law is a rabid quilter. She, and my father in law, churn out at least 3 quilts a year. Some of them are hand quilted, and in my father in law’s case, machine quilted. Every single quilt is done with care and great detail. Whenever they start a quilt they have a particular person in mind, who will receive the quilt once it is all done.
They use sewing machines, appliqué, embroidery machines, quilt patterns, and quilting stencils. With all the beautiful quilts that they create, you’d think that they knew everything there is to know about quilting. But they don’t. They have a handle on using patterns, and the appropriate machines, but they know little to nothing about quilting stencils. So, in honor of them and all the gorgeous work they do; here is a ‘how to’ on using quilting stencils.
What is a Quilting Stencil?
A quilting stencil is a precut piece of wood, cardboard, or plastic that is made in the shape of a particular person, place, or thing. Most manufacturers will take special orders, and cut a stencil in any design you choose.
What is a Quilting Stencil Used For?
A quilting stencil is used when a quilter wants a particular theme or design for their quilt. It is most commonly used when a quilter doesn’t want to go through the hassle of hand or machine quilting a very detailed or intricate design onto their quilting fabric. They also come in handy for other odd interior design projects. Some people choose to use their quilting stencil to stencil designs on their walls, screen doors, and wood working. Quilting stencils add a “hand made” look to almost anything.
How Do You Stencil on Fabric?
Stenciling on walls seems a lot easier than stenciling on fabric. For one, if you mess up the wall, you could always repaint. But if you’ve spent long hours on a quilt for your granddaughter, you’re not going to want to start over.
Before you start to stencil on the fabric, you’re going to want to prepare the fabric. Wash and dry the fabric first. This removes the chemical sizer and will allow the paint to bond completely to the fabric. Attach the piece of fabric you intend to paint to a piece of cardboard. This will keep the fabric from moving while you are stenciling.
Put the stencil on the fabric where you want it, and load your stenciling brush with just a little bit of paint. Don’t apply too much paint at once, it won’t dry very fast and it adds a lumpiness that you aren’t going to enjoy.
Continue stenciling the fabric until you are finished. Place the fabric on a flat surface, and allow the paint to dry for 48 hours. Well, I hope that this article is as informative as I hope it is. I know that my in-laws will find it useful.