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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.

Flexible plastic is used to create these stencils and they are easy to use, providing a guide to work with when making quilts. They come in a number of different types and sizes and can be used in different ways. Blocks, backgrounds and borders are all available.

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.

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.

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 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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