Multi-layer stencil using the GIMP for preparation

For this stencil, I took a hopefully public image from the internet, and did some googling for "multi layer stencil gimp". One of the better pages was this one - although I certainly used others.

Below are some pictures of the process, and the result -

First was the black layer, which was basically a simple silhouette. Unfortunately I don't seem to have a photo of it. I have gimp file still if anyone is interested.

Then was a dark grey layer

Whilst the dark grey ink was drying -

and the dark grey stencil after removing it -

Now applying the light grey paint -

Whilst the light grey ink was drying -

And the result -



The photo doesn't really do it justice - I think as the paper I applied the stencil on was a bit shiny. I'm quite happy with how it looks.

Lessons learned

- Natural shapes like this are easier to cut that straight lines (from the first stencil).
- Multi layer stencils are quite forgiving.
- The stencil adhesive/freezer paper is really a must. This should be the last one I do with regular copy paper.
- The foam brush is easier to work with than a foam roller, and the result is fine, even with large single coloured areas.

Starting simple

Being a newb, the idea was to start simple. I'd seen a few retro C=64 t-shirts around and thought why not start there.

I found this C=64 font and prepared the image using GIMP.

I then printed it out on regular A4 printer paper (2 copies).

Rather than use bridges, I cut the 'islands' on one stencil, and the rest on the other. 

The islands -

The rest -

I bought this fabric ink from amazon uk (Scola Textile Paint).
I used cheap foam brushes to apply it.
Again, the islands first -

And then the rest (after 30mins allowing the islands to dry) -

I then ironed it for 3-5 minutes on each side, with a cloth over the top to protect the ink.

I'm pleased to say it's been through the wash a couple of times with no sign of fading yet.

Lessons learned -

Some stencil adhesive or freezer paper would make the process easier. One of the challenges is the stencil lifting from the fabric - and either one of these should solve that problem.

Cutting straight lines like those in the C64 font is relatively painstaking, and mistakes will be fairly obvious.