A stencil is a sheet with openings that let paint or ink through. Choose one of these three methods: convert a photo, start with a printable pattern, or prepare a vector file for a cutter.
1. Make a Stencil From a Photo
Choose a photo with a clear subject and strong contrast. Upload a JPG, PNG or WebP to the photo to stencil converter. Start with Bold for chunky shapes or Detailed for finer lines. Add layers when you want shading.
Adjust the threshold while comparing with the original. Remove background noise with the eraser. You can finish this part without signing up.
2. Use a Printable Stencil Template
Choose a ready-made pattern in the stencil library, such as a jack-o’-lantern or flower. Its A4/Letter PDF and PNG download directly without an account. For different dimensions or cutouts, choose Customize and preview the processed mask in the editor. The first edited PNG or PDF on this browser needs no signup, with up to three layers and one page per layer. Create a free account to save or download again.
Follow the direct-printing guide, set a different size or practice hand cutting a flower.
For seasonal work, the Halloween stencil maker gives you a bold starting style. Test the size on paper before cutting a curved pumpkin or a larger sign.
3. Prepare a Vector Stencil for a Cutter
Use the SVG stencil maker for compatible vinyl software or the DXF stencil maker for CAD and laser workflows. Vector export requires Pro; see the plans page for available upgrades.
Set the artwork width, inspect the bridges and export your outlines. Check imported dimensions and configure material settings in your machine software.
Keep Loose Pieces Connected
Imagine cutting the letter O. Without a bridge, its centre has nothing attaching it to the surrounding sheet. The editor highlights these enclosed pieces in pink.
- Bridge: leave a narrow strip of material between the island and the outer sheet.
- Fill: remove the centre as part of the cutout for a bolder design.
- Touch-up: move the detail to another layer and paint it back after the main pass.
Automatic bridges connect islands to surrounding material. Inspect the result and increase the width for fragile designs. Every layer needs its own check.
Stencil Cutting Techniques and Printing
In a printed mask, black areas are cut away and white areas are kept. Choose A4 or Letter, print at 100% or actual size, and measure a test print. Disable fit to page if it changes the dimensions.
Cut on a suitable cutting surface, keep small connections intact and work through the design in manageable sections. For painting, match the registration marks between layers and use light passes. Let each pass dry before adding the next.
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