How to Use a Stencil

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Make sure your stencil isn't broken

   You can't spell "Cat" if you're missing the letter T!
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   Step 2: chipped

   Pens don't usually work so well, unless they have an ultra-fine point.
   
   Pencils are often a better choice.
   
   Make sure you're comfortable with your choice, though. , It should have plenty of ink and not be broken. ,, As you trace the outline, make sure to go right along the outline.
   
   It also helps to lean your pencil along the forward path of the pencil.
   
   If you must pause, it is best to lift your pencil and resume the trace leaving a small gap.
   
   Whenever you start the trace, apply just a tad more pressure to compensate for the tendency to start light and transition quickly to a dark trace.
   
   The normal eye does not see small gaps in an outline and fills those in naturally.
   
   However, if you do not tilt your pencil at the same angle when you resume the trace, there will be a small jag and your eye will pick up on that. , This will cause it to deform and you will lose the crispness of your design.
   
   Also, make sure to keep downward pressure on the template near your trace so that the pencil tip cannot slip beneath the template.
   
   Throughout the trace, the template should be firmly seated and not moved. , This will ensure that the point stays sharpened to the max.
   
   It takes a while to get used to this technique, but you can practice by lettering free hand and doing line drawings to refine the technique.
   
   Once you have established the habit, it will become second nature and will kick in automatically as you start to trace for maximum line crispness. , If the lines smudge or smear, use a metal eraser shield to aid your clean up. , Make several lighter, accurate passes and the outline will naturally darken. ,
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   Step 3:  or missing a character.

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   Step 4: Use the correct writing utensil.

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   Step 5: Ensure that your writing implement is in top condition.

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   Step 6: Sharpen your pencil so it's very sharp.

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   Step 7: Lean your pencil left and right to get to the edge of the template.

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   Step 8: Do not exert undue pressure on the template.

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   Step 9: Rotate your pencil gently as you trace.

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    Step 10: Use an eraser shield.

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    Step 11: Go over your outline to darken it.

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    Step 12: Strive for uniformity of line width and density.

Detailed Guide

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