Friday, 24 November 2017

Choosing A Quilt Stencil For Quilting

By Gregory Gibson


Choosing a quilting design is not always easy. There are so many options to choose from and choice depend on all kinds of factors such as who it is intended for, the taste of that individual and the space it will occupy. Sometimes it helps to have some way of getting going easily and quickly with a design. This is where a quilt stencil may be a good idea and offer some much needed inspiration.

Quilting stencils come in a wide variety of designs and are normally constructed out of thin, flexible plastic. They act as a guide when making quilts by giving an exact form to work with. One can choose from many sizes and widths, depending upon how they are to be used. The marked designs get the quilting process started easily and quickly. There are so many creative ways they can be used.

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.

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.

After marking is completed, it is important to check that all lines have been traced. Some stencils have gaps that need to be joined up once initial marking is done. Once the whole design has been marked, use a long basting stitch and follow the marked lines.

Stencils can easily be used over and over again. They are easily cleaned with a damp cloth or some soap and water after use to avoid chalk residue. Stencils are a fun, fast way to mark quilts with beautiful designs.




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