Wednesday, November 15, 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.

Flexible plastic is used to create these stencils and they are easy to use, providing a guide to work with when making quilts. They come in a number of different types and sizes and can be used in different ways. Blocks, backgrounds and borders are all available.

Block types of stencils come in different sizes and designs. A small block can be used in just a corner or a large block may be selected to almost fill a block. One can choose from acorns, bears, eagles, flowers, bells and much more. Make a choice according to a specific theme, the age of a person or the decor of a room. Choose a more simple option or a fancier one. With the variety available, everyone will find something to suit their needs.

Another option is the border variety. These stencils help with creation of patterns around the edge and are designed to to line up to form the continuous pattern. When choosing a border stencil, the size may have to be adjusted to fit because a repeat in the design may not quite match the dimensions. Background stencils are also available. They come in designs like ocean waves, circles, clam shells, continuous spirals, diamonds and leaves.

The wrong size stencils can ruin a design. If it is intended for a block, it must almost fill the block. It is best to choose one that is a half inch to an inch smaller. The same applies to choice of border stencils. They should also be a half inch to an inch smaller in width. One does not want the design to get lost in the space.

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.

Stencils are inexpensive and easy to use more than once on different projects. They can be kept clean by using a damp cloth so that residue from marking will not end up on the next item. Buy stencils to make creative, beautiful designs on quilts that will be appreciated for years to come.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment