For example, on a t-shirt, decide if a large stenciled image covers the entire back of the shirt or a small stenciled image is on the front corner of the shirt.
If you’re new to airbrushing, begin with a simple design. Draw or print an image that doesn’t have too much detail to cut out. Glossy paper may be thick enough to use as a stencil. Just print and cut the image out and use it as your stencil.
Use computer editing software to adjust detailed images instead of photocopying them. Photocopiers can blur intricate details.
Professional printing services are a good choice if you are printing an image in a large file format. Ask a local printing service about costs before you agree to print the image since prices may vary.
Acetate or interfacing is sturdier than paper or cardboard. If the stencil is to be reused, choose the longer-lasting material. With paper or cardboard, you can draw the image directly on the stencil material. The downside of using paper, cardboard, or even wood is that they are usually one time use stencils, because they will suck up the paint and can be a real mess to transport.
The utility knife is useful for making stencil details. For example, to cut out circles, swirls, or defining lines within the image, use different blades to get the desired effect.
The negative stencil is the material surrounding the image cut out while the positive stencil is the solid image cut out. You can easily use either of these popular types of stencils.
Stencil adhesive spray is available at craft supply or hardware stores. If you don’t let the adhesive rest, a residue will remain on the airbrushed item.
Protect fabric from airbrush overspray by blocking off the rest of the fabric with taped-down plastic sheeting on the item. Remember to wear a respirator when using the airbrush.
Avoid buying glossy frisket if using water-based paints as the paint will smear on the glossy surface.
The frisket film stencil can be reused, but if the sticking surface is dirty, dirt will be picked up and the film will lose its ability to stick.
If laying down a large roll of frisket, use a bench scraper or roller smoother to smooth and remove air bubbles from the frisket.
Lay frisket directly onto printed photo paper, heavyweight paper, or cardboard. Frisket is a great choice to make a detailed stencil. For simpler stencils, use paper, acetate, or cardboard instead.
Remember to wear a respirator when using the airbrush. Keep the pieces of frisket film that were removed from the stencil. Put them back in place while airbrushing to keep overspray from affecting the design.
