Card Making and Paper Crafts with Stencils

Card making is an art form that has been around for generations!

A homemade gift is truly from the heart and one to be cherished by the receiver. However, there is no limited to the ways that you can create a card. Here we will try to introduce you to as many ideas as we can think of that have to do with stencils. But don’t think that limits us to the simple painted image because if you do you will be surprised.

Well, let’s start at the beginning. I found a video that shows you how to make a simple card with a beautiful rose stencil. It’s short and sweet.

Isn’t it great to see a stenciling technique in action? I find it much easier to learn by watching someone else. Well, let’s move on to some of the other ways of card making.

A Stencil Mask is a negative stencil. Where stencil patterns allow paint to be applied to open areas, a mask blocks areas so that paint can outline the images. This is a great technique to use on patterned paper. Imagine a fleur de lis masked with a burgundy paint or ink on a piece of two tone gold patterned paper. The pattern stands out through the fleur de lis image. Another way to use stencil masks is in combination with stencils. For example, use a mask to create a light background image that is large and then stencil smaller images in the foreground – such as masking a large circle on yellow sheet of paper using a dark blue paint or ink and then stenciling a few small reindeer across the big yellow moon.

I found a great video that I know will help you imagine all of the art you can create with Stencil Masks. Just wait until you see the potential in using this technique.

The mention of stenciling brings to mind images of adding paint through a stencil but you can create raised or textured images with stencils. If this idea interests you then watch this video of two brilliant ladies demonstrating several card making processes using a raised stenciling art technique. Of course this process can be used in so many other applications such as on walls. As always, keep your mind open and unleash your creativity!

Have you ever considered combining two or more stencils on one card? Imagine a few flower stencils sitting next to each other or overlapping to create a garden. I like to use words in a variety of fonts to relay a message (“Peace,” “Love,” “Joy”…etc.). Why not use some stamps with stencils. When you start mixing and combining different crafts the possibilities are endless. So, don’t be shy. Be creative. Watch this short video to get the picture on combining stencils.

You can create an image that has more detail or depth with Multi-Layer stencils. When you apply different colors to two or more overlays a picture emerges other than a silhouette most common to stenciling. I found this video that shows this point perfectly. You’ll see a picture come together not only using different colors but also playing light and dark of one color against itself.

By the way, don't miss this wonderful article on creating unique gift tags at Christmas Projects.

We are thrilled to introduce our selection of downloadable stencils in the Stencils Store. Instant gratification at its finest! You don't need a special printer - these designs are specially formatted to print straight from your home computer on standard letter sized paper. Once downloaded, you will have your complete stencil booklet with patterns and instructions. Just click, buy and print!

Below is a sample of the books we offer. They are related to Christmas Crafts but I think they will come in handy for your Holiday card making. Each book will come to you as a downloadable pdf file in your e-mail. Just check your e-mail after purchase for the link to connect to your file and print or save. It's that easy!

All designs can be adjusted to fit your project size. Instructions are included. Pages are 8.5” x 11”.

If you'd rather get your Stencil Books in Print, just click the blue button below each book.

Here’s a neat little book that I created for Christmas card making. The designs can be used as stencils or masks. You can use them to apply paint or cut out colored paper and paste. Stencils included are the Christmas tree and star, the reindeer, the ornament and bow and of course the carolers. Also, included is a pattern so that you can make matching envelopes. It has complete instructions and many ideas for creating a variety of cards. You will get your book right away because it's a pdf file. Look for an e-mail with the link to download the book right after purchase.

And it's only $4.50.

To get this Book in Print for just $14.95 click here:

If you're in the Christmas Spirit, here is a great little book of the most recognized holiday images. Use these for card making or just about any other crafts projects.

Christmas: A Book of Stencils

This collection includes 9 designs. They are Santa Claus, a Reindeer, a Christmas Tree (with options for decorations), a Candle with Holly Accents, Bells with a Bow, a Gingerbread Boy and Girl, and a String of Lights.

This purchase is of a PDF file which has 42 pages.

Price: $9.95

To get this Book in Print for just $19.95 click here:

Do you like the Reindeer Prints pictured here? They're very easy 2 overlay stencils in a down-loadable pdf file so that you can get your stencils right away (they will be e-mailed to you). Complete instructions included. Click on the picture for project ideas.

Price: $4.00

Not available in Print.

Pssst! If you're looking for Stencil Pattern Books in Print (like these or the Christmas Card Making Book above) then visit our Printer's Book Shop for a large variety of stencil collections. These books are easy to follow and come with complete instructions. You'll find all of the stencil designs used as samples throughout this site.

I hope you are inspired to create some great works of art with stencils!

And hey! Don’t forget that I (and everyone else) want to see what you have done with stencils. Just click on Contact Me to get your masterpiece showcased here on this web site. Won’t that be exciting! Or if you have any questions or want to share information join in on the Stencil Blog. Well, I hope to hear from you soon.

Happy Stenciling,

Penny

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