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.