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Choosing A Quilt Stencil For Quilting

By Gregory Gibson


Deciding on designs for quilts is quite a difficult process, taking into consideration various factors such as where they will be used, and the taste of the people who will be using them. Quilts come in so many different styles, from simple to ornate. Just making a decision is enough to stop one from moving forward. At this stage, it may be worthwhile to consider using a quilt stencil. This will often help to get creative juices flowing.

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.

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.

When choosing stencils, it is important to go for the right size. When choosing a block, one should select a size between a half and one inch less than the size of the finished block. It should almost fill the block. The same applies to choosing border stencils. This means that if a border design is five inches, the one selected should be between four and four and a half inches.

Marking is a simple matter of using markers such as a water soluble pen, a chalk pencil or a graphite pencil. Different methods of marking are used, some of which involve marking before basting and others that involve marking after basting. When marking, make sure to avoid smudging what has been marked already by working from the center towards the outer edge.

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.




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