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By Gregory Gibson


Choosing a quilting design is not always easy. There are so many options to choose from and choice depend on all kinds of factors such as who it is intended for, the taste of that individual and the space it will occupy. Sometimes it helps to have some way of getting going easily and quickly with a design. This is where a quilt stencil may be a good idea and offer some much needed inspiration.

Flexible plastic is used to create these stencils and they are easy to use, providing a guide to work with when making quilts. They come in a number of different types and sizes and can be used in different ways. Blocks, backgrounds and borders are all available.

The blocks that can be purchased are available in many designs. One can choose according to a specific theme or to suit a certain decor style. An Amish medallion may be the perfect choice for a farmhouse style bedroom and a teddy bear is suitable for the bedroom of a child. Other choices are angels, acorns, eagles, bells and flowers. Blocks are also different sizes and larger ones are suitable for filling a whole block. A smaller one may be suitable for using in the corners.

Border stencils can be used to create patterns all the way around the edge of an item. They are designed in such as way that they can be lined up to make a continuous pattern. Another type of stencil available is one that can be used for backgrounds. These also come in all kinds of patterns from circles, shells, spirals and waves to leaves, diamonds and squares.

The most important aspect when it comes to choosing stencils is going for the right size for the area. When making a choice try to find one that is a half to one inch smaller than the size of a finished block. Again, when choosing a border design, choose one a half to one inch smaller than the finished width of the border. For example, if a border design is four inches when finished, choose a three or three and a half inch design.

Marking is a simple matter of using markers such as a water soluble pen, a chalk pencil or a graphite pencil. Different methods of marking are used, some of which involve marking before basting and others that involve marking after basting. When marking, make sure to avoid smudging what has been marked already by working from the center towards the outer edge.

After marking is completed, it is important to check that all lines have been traced. Some stencils have gaps that need to be joined up once initial marking is done. Once the whole design has been marked, use a long basting stitch and follow the marked lines.

Stencils are inexpensive and easy to use more than once on different projects. They can be kept clean by using a damp cloth so that residue from marking will not end up on the next item. Buy stencils to make creative, beautiful designs on quilts that will be appreciated for years to come.




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