As I observe all the cool ways artists are using stencils, I
find that most applications are paint based.
Stencils are such amazing tools to assist us in getting marks on paper. I think one of the hidden secrets of a
stencil is to use it as a template, to rely on the pattern openings to draw
lines, tracing the perimeter. Think
about the stencils you have – wouldn’t they be terrific to help you get started
on a sketch or line composition?
Whether you regard time spent drawing as deliberate,
concentrated, and mindful, or you consider drawing to be carefree, relaxed, and
mindless, it’s a fulfilling process to enjoy.
Committing pen on paper can be intimidating but it has many
rewards. The samples I’m about to show
you began swift and easy, by depending on stencils to lay the groundwork. The trick to successful composition is to
keep at it. Don’t let little wobbles in
the line bother you because the more marks you continue to add, the more
interesting it will become and the imperfections you worried about will become
less noticeable. The ultimate goal is
not precision, because that would look machine-made. Evidence of the artist’s hand at work adds to
the charm and overall interest. Once
you’ve committed to the black lines, the fun part begins with highlights of
white. You’ll see the elements come to
life as soon as you change over to the white pen.
TIP: If you're timid
about committing black lines to enhance the design, test with pencil first.
THE FUN PART: The
more marks you make, any bobble becomes less noticeable, and then the step of
adding white highlights will elevate the overall composition.
Michelle Ward
Love this so much! How clever and imaginative - and so beautiful!
ReplyDeleteClaudia x
Thanks Claudia!
DeleteThese are so beautiful! I'm going to have to take a different look at my stencils now!
ReplyDeleteCarrie - a new perspective on your stencils - exactly what I hoped for!
DeleteGreat inspiration, thanks!
ReplyDeleteThank YOU Renee!
DeleteLove this Michelle - been following your work for many years - always fab
ReplyDeleteThanks Jacqui!
DeleteLove the work on the craft paper! Thank you so much for the inspiration. I have your stencil and I am ready to play.
ReplyDeleteThanks Suzie - have fun!
DeleteThese are beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThank you Jill.
DeleteGreat inspiration!
ReplyDeleteThanks Stephanie.
DeleteMichelle, I love this! So many possibilities. My mind went a little trippy and thought of zentangling in the spaces. Hmmmm...and the wheels turn. Always ❤ your art!
ReplyDeleteThanks Robin :)
DeleteWhat a fantastic inspiration to create "zen-dala's" (zentangle mandala's) and play with composition and layering stencils! Also love the use of craft paper. ❤ Cheetarah
ReplyDeleteThanks Cheetarah!
DeleteThese designs have always been a favorite of mine since the first moment Michelle posted them. What a treat to have Michelle show us the process with her customary encouragement and her meticulous attention to detail with this awesome tutorial.
ReplyDeleteAwww, thanks Linda! <3
Delete