Stencils are the foundation for images in screen printing. Stencils are used as masks and tools in monoprinting on the gel plate.
If you make prints without a press you can make better prints, if you have stronger stencil making skills.
Practice and cut more stencils and you will get better. I hope this does not discourage you or disappoint.
But if you get into the habit of collecting ideas and images, and then cut out one new stencil every couple of days, then your collection of unique hand made stencils will grow at a steady pace, and you will have more than enough printmaking options.
Here are three stencil cutting practice tips:
- Download my free Cutting SKILLS Worksheet by Linda Germain and use it. If you save all the cut outs you will have 7 small masking stencils and 8 traditional stencils to play with. (print it out on card stock)
- Start a physical and digital file folder to collect inspiration.
- Start simple, build your confidence and success and then get more complex. You can do it!
If you think that you would like the guidance of an instructor, support of an art community and 4 weeks of lessons, then join us in the new online printmaking class – Make Stencils Workshop. Click here for the details. Registration is open now and class starts March 28th.
The skills you master in this class will jumpstart and support all your other printmaking processes. However if you are a beginner this will be a good course for you was well. There will be lots of time for skill development and practice. I hope you join us.