Stencils are a great way to print without a press.
They can be as simple as torn paper and as complex as the multi layered stencils used by artists like Shepard Fairey. Each color would be a different stencil and they would all be perfectly lined up (registered).
I use two kinds of stencils:
- Traditional “hole” stencil – that ink is gently pushed through and the print is made
- Masking Stencil – is used to block the transfer of ink to the surface and
- I use the masking stencil when combined with the gelatin plate as a “stamp”
If you would like a FREE tutorial on Making your own Stencils for printmaking and mixed media art then join the interest list below and you will get the link and password to the lesson.
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Watch the video below and get some ideas for making stencils of your own.
The wonderful thing about making your own stencils is that the imagery can be very personal and meaningful to your work. And you can just take a few moments to create the prefect image that you would like to incorporate into your work.
Stencils can last for years and be used to make hundreds of prints. It depends on the material that they are made of and how tough you are with them.
More help for making your own stencils:
- What is a Stencil? a pictorial post
- Be inspired by Kirigami and make folded stencils
- Art made with Stencils – a video
Want to make your own stencils with the help of a teacher and inspiration from other students? Join us in the next session of Make Stencils, the online printmaking class. Read the details here.