Stacked Stencils

Use two stencils together to create a pattern within a pattern.

Supplies

Step-by-Step

1. Step 1

   Cut a card-sized panel (the panel here is 4 1/2” x 6”).
   
   (Optional) Brush or sponge an even layer of color over the panel with your lightest ink.

   

2. Step 2

   Select two stencils, one with a more open design and one with a smaller pattern.
   
   Tape the cardstock panel to the back of the more open stencil.
   

   

3. Step 3

   TIP:
   Place and secure the stencil in the corner of a stamp positioner using magnets or tape – this helps keep the stencil in place and will help line up the stacked stencils in later steps.
   

   

4. Step 4

   Brush or sponge over the stencil using a light ink to fill the panel.

   

5. The sample panel looks like this.

   

6. Step 5

   Keeping the paper panel taped in place, line up the second stencil on top of the first stencil and tape them both together.

   

7. Place and secure the stacked stencils in the corner of a stamp positioner using magnets or tape.

   

8. Step 6

   Brush or sponge a darker or contrasting ink through both stencils at once.

   

9. The second stencil pattern will appear inside the first stencil openings.

   

10. Step 7

    Use the panel to complete a card or other project.

    

Video!

Variations

1. Instead of a patterned stencil, use an open shape stencil or substitute a die cut opening for the first layer.

   

2. Use the panel to complete a card or other project.

   

Your Turn

You've seen the tutorial, now you try it! We've got a section of the gallery set aside for Stacked Stencils. Try this technique, then upload your artwork to the gallery. Show us your creations!

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