A question about making large custom-lettered stencils?
Posted in technique on 11/26/2008 11:54 pm by HealinPower
Silly Hippie asked:
I am trying to make a somewhat large, custom stencil, with curved, 60’s style lettering. I’ve already drawn the letters out and have them nearly perfect, but I am having a huge amount of trouble getting the x-acto knife to correctly follow the design. Currently I’m using a high-quality, thick, cardstock-like paper, a retractable x-acto knife (the pen one) and a self-healing mat underneath. The letters are about 2 inches tall and 1 inch wide, the blade is brand-new, and I more than take my time. Does anyone know how I can get the knife to follow a curve without slipping? Any tips on technique or knives? Thanks :]
Jose
I am trying to make a somewhat large, custom stencil, with curved, 60’s style lettering. I’ve already drawn the letters out and have them nearly perfect, but I am having a huge amount of trouble getting the x-acto knife to correctly follow the design. Currently I’m using a high-quality, thick, cardstock-like paper, a retractable x-acto knife (the pen one) and a self-healing mat underneath. The letters are about 2 inches tall and 1 inch wide, the blade is brand-new, and I more than take my time. Does anyone know how I can get the knife to follow a curve without slipping? Any tips on technique or knives? Thanks :]
Jose
11/30/2008 at 5:05 am
I might recommend a larger knife. I know small makes you thing you have more precision but if you used a larger box cutter type blade you may be able to steady yourself better
12/01/2008 at 12:08 am
maybe change the knife, you mention retractable, there are small flimsy cutters, (not this)
and large heavy duty knifes used for hardware purposes, and there are rounded pen shaped knifes designed for arts, (these)
then you need to take your time, have good lighting, verify flat surface, no distractions, and possibly carve on side angle like for matting frames,, do a little a time if needed,
or find a vinyl cutter type machine,
..