This blog post will show you how to make your own stencils using the Silhouette Cameo!
Note: In my opinion, these stencils aren't comparable to the ones you can buy online and in stores, but they will work for a time! :)
You'll need:
- A laminator
- A laminating pouch (empty)
- Silhouette Cameo (or other die cut machine + the design software)
IMPORTANT NOTE: First, you'll want to run your empty laminating pouch through the laminating machine. (Then, you're done with the machine and can put it away!)
Next, you'll want to find an image that's similar to what you want your stencil to be. I just used Google to find some diagonal stripes. It doesn't have to be perfect, because you'll be able to fix the design in the Design software.
Save your image to your PC or Mac wherever you would like to.
Then, open your design software and open the image.
You can edit your image now. I wanted to crop it down, since I was going to be using it for cards and wanted to fit 2 stencils on one 8.5x11 sheet. I put a rectangle where I wanted cropped out. Then I right-clicked and chose "Make Compound Path". This will remove the portion of the image under the rectangle. (Anything that isn't caught in this step, you can use your Eraser tool to remove whatever you don't want.)
Next, I clicked "Trace" from the toolbar.
I made a rectangle around the image.
For this particular image, I had to change my threshold to a higher percentage so that the lines were completely filled in.
Then, I clicked the Trace button.
Next, I removed my original image (by dragging and dropping) and then I deleted it.
Next, I copied and pasted it to my 8.5x11 design that already had another stencil on it.
I chose the "Sticker Paper, Clear" as my material type.
I put the laminated pouch on my cutting mat and started the machine.
(Because it's clear, it's so hard to see - Sorry!)
Before choosing to Unload the cutting mat, I made sure the pieces would easily come off (which they did!) If you have thicker laminating pouches, you may have to change your settings and re-cut.
And here's what you're left with!! Your very own stencils!! (Again, sorry it's so hard to see!!)
This is how I used the diagonal stripes stencil!
