Whenever the word “stencil” is uttered, most people think of stencil walls and early American style-painted floor cloths. Stencils had their moment in the spotlight in the 1980′s, when the country look was the hot look to have in one’s home. But, stencils play a different role in quilting. And if the quilter has never heard of using stencils before, they might be a little confused as to how. Surely you can’t use stencils for quilting the way they are traditionally used!

However, stencils are actually very useful in the art of quilting and advances in technology are quickly making them a must-have tool. Quilting stencils are very similar to stencils for paint, and often look about the same. They are made from hard plastic, and they have holes for the design. However, while painting stencils are used to create decorative elements, quilting stencils are used to lay down a pattern to follow when stitching. Quilting stencils are sought after with the goal of creating unusual patterns on the quilt. Quilting stencils allow the crafter the chance to transfer a pattern on the quilt they can stitch later. And don’t be too concerned with your artistic abilities. If you use stencils, the design has already been created and all you have to do is follow it.

You can easily find stencils and supplies offered by many different companies. You will find a huge variety of designs, from classic florals to contemporary designs. Take a look around some of the quilting sites on the internet or visit your local quilting store to get an idea of how many stencils await you.

Quilting stencils are extremely easy to use. The pattern can be easily transferred with chalk, water or stitching. Make sure the water soluble pen is tested on the fabric before you use it, to make sure you don’t ruin your quilt. The only thing you need to do is trace the pattern. And there you go! Now you have a pattern you can stitch. After all, most quilters prefer to spend their time designing, piecing a quilt top, or doing the actual quilting, not messing around with pattern transfers. A simple rule of thumb is to choose a design about a half an inch to an inch smaller than your block, so that the resulting pattern doesn’t look crowded. You can also take one of the smaller stencils and repeat the design by laying it down in a pattern on your fabric.

Quilting stencils are one of the most useful advances in notions for the home crafter. Old quilters from times gone by would be stunned by some of the new ideas and supplies available. So, what are you waiting for before you get started? Quilting stencils can save you time and provide amazing designs.

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