How to Cut Out Stencils for Painting
Painting freehand is a discipline and an art. However, there are a number of techniques that require the use of a stencil. These can add a level of accuracy to the drawings and allow geometrical shapes to be put in.
After all, there are not many out there who can draw a perfect circle but some drawings require symmetry and precision. For those, there are stencils and no, they are not considered ‘cheating’ but are an accepted tool which many artists use to bring a little extra to their work.
Things required:
– Masking tape
– art paper
– Scissors
– Paper cutter
– Printer
– an image
Instructions
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1
The first step is perhaps the most important. It is to ensure that you have all the various items and elements that are required. Make sure that you take the above mentioned list with you and check all the items as you purchase them when you go to the store. Also, chart paper can be used as a replacement for the art paper as well.
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2
Find the image of which you wish to cut out a stencil of for your painting on the internet and download it.
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3
Print out the image on art paper or piece of chart paper. If the size of the paper is too large then you can cut it up yourself or go to one of the printers in order to have it printed out for you.
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4
Once you have the stencil you may cut out the outline of the shape or drawing. Keep the rest of the paper intact.
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5
Place the stencil over the canvas or prepared surface.
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6
Hold it in place using masking tape. The tape can also be used to cover exposed areas that you do not wish to paint.
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7
Apply a layer of paint over the stencil. If done correctly on the exposed areas will be painting and leaving the rest the same colour as the original coat or colour which was underneath it.
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8
This technique is best used with either an airbrush or spray paint. However, feel free to get experimenting and give your imagination some freedom to try out some new techniques as more ideas should pop into your head once you give this technique a few go’s.
