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For this week’s Tidbit I am going to explain the difference between a stencil and a mask. At times it may seem confusing but hopefully this video will clear it up for you, once and for all! In the mean time, we are creating some fabulous prints in the process!

What is the Difference Between Stencils and Masks?

Stencil: A stencil is a thin sheet of plastic, mylar, or similar material with areas cut away to form a design. Rub, brush, or gel print paint, ink, sprays, or texture medium over the sheet so it passes through the cut-outs and onto the surface. In a stencil, the image is formed by the openings.

Mask: A mask forms a barrier used to block the surface beneath it from taking the color or texture being applied. Rub, brush, or gel print over the mask, then remove it to
reveal an untouched area surrounded by color and texture. In a mask, the image is formed by the mylar.

What are They Made From?

Joggles stencils and masks are made from durable 10 mil thick mylar that will stand up to any application where heat is not required. Think of them as tools to expand your creativiy–the possibilities are endless!

What Kind of Creative Projects Can I Use Them With?

Stencils and masks work great with paints, inks, sprays of all kinds, pens, markers, pastels, texturizing mediums, and more! Simply lay the stencil or mask onto your substrate, apply tape to the edges, if necessary, in order to hold it in place and keep it flat. Then apply color or texture through the openings in order to transfer the stencil or mask pattern onto your art jounal pages, blank note cards, scrapbook pages, fabric, gel printing plate, mixed media application, home decorating projects, or anywhere else your creative heart desires!

How Do I Clean Them?

That depends on what you have used your stencil with. If you are using water-based paint, ink, dye, or similar products, you can wipe the stencil/mask with a damp paper towel or a baby wipe, or spritz it with water and then wipe it clean (before the paint dries). If you’re using texturizing mediums like molding paste or gel medium, clean the stencil immediately after use to prevent these products from drying and sticking to the surface permanently. If you’re in a creative groove and can’t stop to clean, have a dish basin filled with warm soapy water nearby. Keep the goo moist and clean it thouroughly later! Always be careful how you wipe the surface so that you don’t bend or tear the intricate designs.

Consider supporting another small female-owned business by purchasing
ALL the supplies for this project from Barb and Company at Joggles.

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