samedi 18 novembre 2017

Selecting A Quilt Stencil For Quilting

By Gregory Gibson


Trying to decide on a quilting design can be challenging. Quilting design choices are often a statement of the taste of the quilter. Quilters have to bear in mind how quilts will be used, who they are for and whether they need to be fancy or simple. These are just some of the questions to ask before make a decision. If it is just too difficult to decide, a quilt stencil can help give some inspiration.

Stencils for quilting are made out of flexible plastic. They come in all sorts of widths and sizes, depending on usage. The multitude of designs available can be used in so many creative ways. They can help one to push past a mental block so that creativity can flow once more.

Many types of block stencils can be purchased and one can select from a specific theme or design. Eagles, acorns, Amish medallions, angels, bears, flowers and bells are just a few of these. Larger size blocks will fill a whole block and smaller ones may just be used in a corner.

Stencils are available that can be lined up to create a continuous pattern all the way around the quilt. It is important to measure carefully and make sure that one does not end up at the corners being unable to match the design. Stencils can even be used for a background with a choice of shapes like diamonds, circles, spirals, wave patterns or clam shells.

The most important aspect when it comes to choosing stencils is going for the right size for the area. When making a choice try to find one that is a half to one inch smaller than the size of a finished block. Again, when choosing a border design, choose one a half to one inch smaller than the finished width of the border. For example, if a border design is four inches when finished, choose a three or three and a half inch design.

A variety of methods are used for marking or transferring stencils onto quilts. This may be done before or after basting. Sometimes a design will be traced on before basting by using a light box. Different types of markers may be used such as a graphite pencil, a water soluble pen or a chalk pencil. When marking patterns onto quilts, try to work from the center to the outside to prevent smudging what has been marked already.

Once the marking is done, double-check that the whole pattern has been done. Most stencils have gaps where the drawing line cannot be continued and these gaps can be connected after doing the marking. After this, a basting stitch is used to follow the marks made.

The beauty of stencils is that it is possible to use them more than once. It is easy enough to clean them and remove any residue left on them by markers. Simply use soap and water or a damp cloth. Stencils are a fast and fun way to make creative designs.




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