Silhouette Stenciling Keepsakes

Materials

silhouette stencils
black acrylic paint
photograph
frame (with multiple frame openings)
lace, ribbons or other embellishments
various antique papers
2 stenciling brushes, size TS2R and TS3R
paper towel
safe-release or light masking tape

Before you begin, select photograph(s) and any documents you wish to commemorate in this heritage page. Select appropriate antique papers; i.e., for a child’s school year, use their school photo and report card. Do not be concerned with sizes at this point.

To prepare images:

To scan documents using Photoshop on home computers: When scanned document opens in Photoshop, click on IMAGE and select IMAGE SIZE. Enter the dimensions required to fit your frame or scrapbook page. Print a sample and adjust, if necessary. Note: If you do not have a computer, many office supply and copy stores can do this for you. If using a commercial machine, tell the clerk the dimensions needed for project.

1. When satisfied with prepared document, insert selected antique paper in printer and copy (figure B). Cut to size.

2. Decide best placement of selected silhouette stencil and secure with safe-release or lightweight masking tape (figure C).

3. Lightly load brush with paint and wipe excess on paper towel; brush should feel almost dry. Using a light circular motion, begin painting in silhouette working from head downward. Do not apply paint in an opaque manner; allow highlighting and shadowing effects (figure D). Apply more paint if desired.

4. Position photo and document in frame or scrapbook page (figure E).

5. Embellishment(s) should be significant to the photo and document (figure F). Don’t overdo the embellishments--less is more.