Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Stencil Lettering Guide

Stencilled lettering can be used for signs and notices.


Stenciled text is quick to apply and easy to read. Letters and numbers can be stenciled onto many surfaces including paper, walls and clothes. You can find ready-made text stencils or make your own using card or thin plastic sheets.


Features


Stenciled text can be simple, basic and functional, or it can be decorative. You can use stencils to create greetings cards, signs and textile designs. Stenciled text can form part of your home decor; for example, you can stencil your favorite quotes and phrases onto walls.


Design


Looped letters such as o will need bridges to hold the central portion in place. If you don't wish to use bridges, you can make two stencils: one with one half of the looped letters and one with the second half. Decorative fonts are better for cards, wall stencils and similar applications. If the stencil is for a sign, go with a clear, simple font.


Materials


You will need a sharp knife to cut out the letters. Stencil brushes are stiff, flat brushes used to dab paint through the holes in the stencil. Spray paints are good to use with stencils on walls. For lettering textiles, you can find fabric spray paints.