Masking stencils tutorial
Create fresh new designs using your existing stencil stash – Claire Rhodes-Brandon shows you how
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This is a simple yet fun and effective technique that adds interest to your projects and increases the usability of your stencils, giving a whole new look to your original stencil.
Masked stencilling is the use of a shape to conceal part of a stencil you’re using. Traditionally we may think of stencils as something we use to create backgrounds, but with masked stenciling, the stencilled area can become the focal point of your card or project. This is achieved by using a low-tack sticky sheet such as masking paper to create die-cut or custom shapes.
You can use the die-cuts themselves, the aperture (what you’d normally think of as waste), or a combination of the two to create different looks and effects, for some of which there are examples on the following pages.
Good quality masking sheets are essential to ensure a neat and clean finish; too sticky and you might rip your project, not sticky enough and the sheet could move. Low-tack masking tape is also good to have on hand to hold stencils in place. You can also use it to mask off parts of a stencil, creating an alternative look without die-cuts.
I find this technique fun and satisfying, and it makes me look at stencils already in my stash – and new ones I’m considering purchasing – in a whole new way!
Die-cut a large flower from the masking sheet, then cut an aperture in to it using a die a couple of sizes smaller. Remove the backing and place on to a piece of white cardstock
Place the stencil over the panel and secure using masking tape. Use an ink-blending tool to apply different colours of ink through it as shown
Remove the stencil and masking paper and trim the panel to 13.5x10.5cm
You will need
- white 15.5x9.5cm card blank
- white & bright pink cardstock
- stencil
- sentiment stamp
- Tonic Studios Will’s Hand die set - Birthday
- Dried Oregano & Spanish Sangria Nuvo inkpad
- VersaMark inkpad
- clear embossing powder
- pink fine-line pen
- sequins
- masking sheet
- 3D foam pads
- ink-blending tool
- heat tool
- manual die-cutting machine
You will need
- white 12.5cm-square card blank
- white, bright pink & gold cardstock
- stencil
- circle die
- WPlus9 Happy Trio die set
- Spanish Sangria, Dried Oregano & Rubber Duck Nuvo inkpads
- VersaMark inkpad
- gold embossing powder
- Key Lime Nuvo Jewel Drops
- masking sheet
- 3D foam pads
- ink-blending tool
- heat tool
- manual die-cutting machine
You will need
- white 15x12cm card blank
- white & bright pink cardstock
- Tonic Studios Petal Pattern stencil
- large flower nesting dies
- Altenew Heartfelt Sentiments stamp set
- Spanish Sangria, Lotus Flower & Rubber Duck Nuvo inkpads
- VersaMark inkpad
- gold embossing powder
- masking sheet
- 3D foam pads
- ink-blending tool
- heat tool
- manual die-cutting machine
You will need
- white 12.5cm-square card blank
- white & bright pink cardstock
- stencil
- star nesting dies
- sentiment stamp
- Dried Oregano & Rubber Duck Nuvo inkpads
- Onyx Black VersaFine inkpad
- sequins
- masking sheet
- 3D foam pads
- manual die-cutting machine
You will need
- white 11.5x14.5cm card blank
- white, bright pink & gold cardstock
- Tonic Studios Twisting Circles stencil
- heart nesting dies
- Tonic Studios Strip Sentiment – With Love
- Spanish Sangria, Lotus Flower & Rubber Duck Nuvo inkpads
- Key Lime Nuvo Jewel Drops
- ink-blending tool
- manual die-cutting machine
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