Using 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.

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.

The blocks that can be purchased are available in many designs. One can choose according to a specific theme or to suit a certain decor style. An Amish medallion may be the perfect choice for a farmhouse style bedroom and a teddy bear is suitable for the bedroom of a child. Other choices are angels, acorns, eagles, bells and flowers. Blocks are also different sizes and larger ones are suitable for filling a whole block. A smaller one may be suitable for using in the corners.

Border stencils can be used to create patterns all the way around the edge of an item. They are designed in such as way that they can be lined up to make a continuous pattern. Another type of stencil available is one that can be used for backgrounds. These also come in all kinds of patterns from circles, shells, spirals and waves to leaves, diamonds and squares.

The wrong size stencils can ruin a design. If it is intended for a block, it must almost fill the block. It is best to choose one that is a half inch to an inch smaller. The same applies to choice of border stencils. They should also be a half inch to an inch smaller in width. One does not want the design to get lost in the space.

Some methods of marking a quilt require tracing the design onto the top with a light box before basting. With others, designs can be marked or transferred onto quilts after basting by using a variety of markers. Chalk pencil, graphite pencil and water soluble pens are just some of the options. Remember to mark patterns from the center to the outside to minimize the risk of smudging what has already been traced.

When marking, make sure that all the lines have been traced and that any gaps between lines have been connected. Once the whole pattern has been successfully marked, it is time to use a long basting stitch and go over the marks that have been made.

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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