Custom Theorem Stencils

PDF Click the icon for for figure A.

Materials:

two black/white photo copies of selected design or pattern (figure A) enlarge or shrink to desired size
tracing paper
pencil and fine line black marker
masking tape
craft knife or stencil cutter
piece of glass same or larger than design size
important safety note -wrap edges of glass in masking tape to protect against cuts
.005 ml Mylar or E-Z plastic
oil or acrylic paints - use a color photo or fabric sample to help select paint colors
bright or fabric brushes (one for each color being used in design)
stencil brushes (one for each color being used in design)
fine liner brush #0 (if there is fine line work)
palette or wax paper on which to mix paints
paper towels
fabric or wall
white poster board if working with fabric
turpentine or mineral spirits if working with oil paint
theorem stencil kit - optional
Theorem Painting: An Instructional Video for Beginners featuring the Winter Heart Wreath - optional

Steps:

Creating Theorem Template

1. Place photocopy of design under glass and secure to work surface with masking tape. Use a light box if available.
2. Place tracing paper on top of glass and secure.
3. Use fine line marker to trace outline of design. Place at least two registration marks, small geometric shapes used for layer alignment, at upper corners of design. See figure 1 for outline and registration mark example.
4. Use a pencil to begin numbering individual elements of design starting with the #1. Elements labeled #1 do not touch each other, elements labeled #2's don't touch each other, and so on. See figure 2. Try to limit element breakdown to four numbers or fewer.

1. Place numbered template beneath glass and secure in place.
2. Secure layer #1 of Mylar or E-Z Plastic on top of glass.
3. Use craft knife or stencil cutter to cut out all elements labeled #1. Be sure to include registration marks and layer number on each sheet. Registration marks allow proper alignment on subsequent stencil layers.
4. Repeat steps 2 through 3 for all layers designated in drawing.
5. Proof your stencil to be sure all cut-outs have been made and layers align properly. Proofing can be accomplished with a pencil outline sketched on paper. The theorem stencil is ready for painting.

1. Place small amount of paint on palette far each color being used.
2. Place masking tape (remove some of its stickiness on back of hand) under registration marks.
3. Use bright or fabric brush designated for first color. Pick up a small amount of paint on brush tip. Wipe brush on paper towel until almost dry (dry brush technique).
4. Paint in registration marks.
5. Place brush tip on stencil edge, and use quick, short strokes to place color around stencil opening.
6. Use stencil brush to pull paint into stencil opening. This process creates a shading effect. Don't pick up fresh paint with stencil brush, use the paint already applied with the bright brush.
7. Complete this process for each color and opening on layer # 1.
8. Remove stencil layer #1 and replace with layer #2; use registration marks to align properly. Complete paint application as directed in steps 4 through 6 for layer #2.
9. Repeat steps 4 through 6 for all remaining layers.
10. If there is fine line work, mix a small amount of turpentine or mineral spirits with the color of choice until you get a milk-like consistency. Dip fine liner brush #0 in paint and dab lightly on paper towel to remove any excess turpentine and/or paint. Using reference design, apply fine line work where indicated.

• Theorem stencils may be applied to any paintable surface using a variety of acrylic and oil mediums.
• Change suggested colors for a variety of decorating options.
• The speed and ease of theorem stenciling make it fun for both kids and adults. The various craft applications make theorem stenciling great for creating craft show items. Stencil a 12" square of muslin to use as a center for a decorative pillow or quilt block. Make beautiful custom stationery or gift cards. Try applying stencil designs to lampshades, sweatshirts and T-shirts.