Stencil Art Prints

When we think of stencil art, we often picture an image painted on the wall. But have you ever considered using stencils to create art prints to hang on the wall? Well, it’s a great way to decorate. You can use unique designs to match the theme of any room and choose colors in the print to match any décor. Your framed artwork can be totally customized to fit your space!

For the next few weeks, we’re going to explore the many ways to create art prints with stencils. For this week, let’s start with the basics. It’s always good to keep it simple, right? So, the easiest way to create stencil art is by using a single design.

The prints above were made with simple three overlay designs (one overlay for each color). They were painted on a plain white background, matted with a double matt and framed. The paint colors were chosen to accent the surrounding décor. It was a very easy project and they definitely make a statement.

These Fleur de lis match well in a classic or traditional setting. Here are some other ideas if you are into a different style: if you have a tropical décor, find a palm tree or shell stencil pattern; for a feminine surrounding, try a single rose bud stencil; for a child’s room, paint some farm or zoo animals. By creating your own art, you are in complete control of the style, themes, colors and size.

You may be curious about what type of paper works best for creating stencil art prints. You want a paper that has a smooth finish to allow the stencil to lay flat on the surface so that the edges of the painting will be clean and crisp. Also, you want a matte finish that will readily accept paint. Make sure it is heavyweight and thick so that the wet paint won’t cause the paper to bubble and stretch.

I would recommend Strathmore Windpower Bristol Pads (either the smooth or the vellum). This is what I use. Just a fun note about the Strathmore Windpower line of Artist Papers, they are made with 100% wind power – a pollution-free, renewable energy resource.

Well, I hope this article has started your creative juices flowing. Go ahead and try this out and have some fun! Tune in next week for some ideas on using themed stencil groups.


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