Step Three!

Cut the Stencil.

You can use many types of blades to cut the stencil with, but if you’re going to do alot of stenciling, you’re going to want to it to be affordable.

The best blades for your money are the snap-off kind. I use 9 mm blades, not the larger 18mm. You get more snaps per blade with the smaller 9mm blades. These blades can be bought for under a dollar, and each blade can be snapped to create a new sharp edge many times. Often you can find a pack of refill blades that are an even better deal. (eg. 2 packs of ten blades for a dollar. [ 12 snaps per blade = 240 "blades" for just a dollar!])

Exacto type blades are nice to work with but are more expensive and instead of just snapping off a fresh blade, you have to take the time to put in a new blade.

I also use a “self healing” cutting mat. They can be a little expensive, but they last a long time and can be used on both sides. If you just want to make one stencil, a scrap peice of cardboard will do.

Tomorrow, Step 4, 5, and 6!