7 Inspiring Ways You Can Use Bullet Journal Stencils
What are bullet journal stencils? How do you use the stencils? And where can you get them? Are any of these questions you have? If so, I have answered these questions inside this post for you, along with other key questions.
Stencils bring back childhood memories for me. If they were available at home, school, or church, you could bet I was playing with them! I’ve loved art from a very early age, and stencils are a big part of how I learned to draw. Stencils help with hand-eye coordination and teach precision. The best part about stencils is they are for all skill levels. That means stencils are for you! Read to the bottom to see how you can make your own stencils.
Coming Up on Bullet Journal Stencils.
What are bullet journal stencils?
Different types of stencils.
Getting started with stencils.
Different mediums you can use with stencils.
Different ways you can use stencils.
Where you can buy stencils.
DIY bullet journal stencils.
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Bullet Journal Stencils
What are bullet journal stencils?
Bullet journal stencils do not have to be specifically for a bullet journal. You can use them any way your heart desires. A bullet journal stencil is a template that is the same size as the standard A5 journal size. These stencils fit nicely in the back pocket of your journal if it has that feature.
A bullet journal stencil is a tracing template with various designs, boxes, shapes, and fonts. These will help you create a beautiful layout in your journal or planner pages with precision.
Different Types of Stencils.
Bullet Journaling Stencils.
There are so many options to choose from when looking at stencils. If you have never picked out stencils for yourself, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Stencils come in so many styles, shapes, and different sizes.
Here are the different types of stencils you will find.
1.Plastic stencils. These are the most popular option for anyone starting a bullet journal stencil collection. Plastic stencils are the most common find, and they are the most affordable. Plastic stencils are flexible and can be used with different art mediums. They are also the easiest to clean.
2. Metal stencil. This type of stencil is a fun option. Most metal stencils have intricate designs and come in a variety of sizes. Because of the metal material, the designs and shapes are crisp and clear-cut with minimal flaws. Though they are metal, they are thin and lightweight. These are a step up from plastic so, they cost a little more, but they are long-lasting, and a high quality option.
3. Shapes. There are stencils that are specifically made for basic shapes. My favorite is the circle stencil! They have every size circle possible that will fit nicely inside your journal pages. There are also ovals, squares, rectangles, hexagons, and diamonds. These are a great option and staple for any stencil collection.
4. Designs and patterns. If you’re looking for something above the basics, stencils with intricate designs and patterns are fantastic! There are a wide variety of options that fit any style you desire. I enjoy the flourish patterns and florals! These are wonderful if you want to create something detailed in a short amount of time.
5. Alphabet Stencils. Letters in different fonts are perfect for anyone who likes fun lettering. Whether you are good at hand lettering or still need a lot of practice, lettering stencils will not let you down! You can use these for any project you have in mind.
Getting Started With Stencils.
You have your stencils, and you’re ready to get started making pretty pages in your bullet journal. Let me get you set up for success with a few items you can use to help your process go smooth. Believe me; I’ve had my share of stencil mess-ups! Here are some things that will help with getting started.
Best Supplies
A good set of stencils
Washi-tape
Pen or pencil (*If you choose a pen to work with, I recommend a fine tip pen so you won’t miss any details in the stencils.)
Start Creating
You are welcome to set your stencil down on the paper and begin tracing your desired images. If you do this, be sure to use firm pressure holding the stencil in place with one hand while you trace with the other. If you don’t use strong pressure, the stencil could slip and mess up the tracing design.
Secure Stencil with Washi Tape
The first thing I recommend is placing the stencil in its desired spot, then securing opposite edges with a small piece of washi tape to prevent the stencil from slipping.
Trace with Pencil First - Best Results
Depending on what I’m creating, I like to use a pencil to create the entire page. I like having the option to change things in my design or layout before making them permanent with ink. Then, I will go back and trace over it with the pens I want to use after my design is complete. This is the perfect way to ensure your design turns out exactly how you picture it!
5 Different Mediums You Can Use With Stencils
In the picture above, I used an A5 size dot grid journal from Archer & Olive.
One of the great things about stencils is you can use different art mediums with them. Because they are easy to wipe clean, I like to try out other things. Here are five different mediums you can use with stencils to change things up a bit.
Pencils - Regular and colored pencils both work well with stencils.
Pens - Fineliner pens, ink pens, gel pens, and fine felt tips work great for stenciling!
Paint - There are different kinds of paint you can use with stencils. Acrylic paint and washable are two that I use. Apply paint with brushes, sponges, or foam dabbers. If you use paint, I highly recommend securing your stencil in place first.
Ink - You can find ink pads online or in the stamping section of any craft store. I use ink dabbers to apply the color over a secured stencil.
Watercolor - When using watercolor, I prefer not to make the paint overly wet. The watercolor can run under the stencil if you’re not careful with the application and amount of water you are using. I like to use the stencil as more of a guide that I paint inside to help me get the basic shape. Once I remove the stencil, I will correct the edges of the design if I need to.
7 Inspiring Ways to Use Stencils
Now that we’ve covered the different mediums you can use with stencils, I want to share seven different ways to use stencils in your creative projects.
Stencil in Your Bullet Journal
What is the number one way I like to use stencils is in my bullet journal?
They help me draw perfect boxes, banners, and repetitive design patterns. Whether you are naturally artistic or need a little assistance in drawing, stencils get the job done quickly!
In this spread, I used a square stencil for the habit tracker. I also used a flourish stencil to create the pattern in the corners of the pages. Finally, I used my perfect circle stencil to create the compass in the bottom right corner.
Use Stencils in Your Drawing Pads & Notebooks
Drawing pads and notebooks are different than a bullet journal. I use bullet journals for creative planning, but I use drawing pads and notebooks for other uses (doodling and art). Depending on what you are creating, stencils can be very handy in drawing pads. I use the circle stencils the most on drawing pads.
For notebooks, I like to use the banners and headers stencil sets. These keep my note topics organized and fun!
Stencil on Fabric
Do you have a fabric throw pillow that needs a makeover? How about your dining room placemats? You can paint on most fabrics as long as you use the right paint. (Use acrylic paint for fabric painting. Some brands I use are Folk Art paint and Apple Barrel paint. You can find these brands at craft stores and Walmart). I love seeing placemats with a pretty flourish added in the corner to make them unique. Or a pillow with a homey touch added to make your couch cozy! Be sure to secure the stencil properly with something a little stronger than washi tape so you can avoid slips and messes.
Stencil on Furniture
I don’t know about you, but I can get inspired to start a DIY project when I watch IGTV or fixer-up shows! I love seeing people take an old piece of furniture and giving it a new coat of paint or stain. It adds a fresh look to the room and makes you feel good that you just created something original for your home. Add a cute pattern to your kid’s dresser or a pretty design on the side of your bookshelf. Even something as simple as adding a word or design to that little wooden footstool you use is a fun way to use your creativity! Once again, use the right paint and secure your stencil well before you begin. (For furniture painting, I recommend acrylic paint from Folk Art or Apple Barrel or spray paint for furniture found in the paint isles.)
Use Stencils on Storage Boxes
I love seeing those perfectly organized closets on Pinterest, don’t you? You can achieve the same look by adding artistic lettering on the front of each storage container using your lettering stencils. Even adding a small flourish below the word adds a nice touch.
Use Stencils on Kitchen Containers for Organization
Use a stencil in the shape of a label to add labels to your kitchen canisters. Labels are such a simple touch that makes a huge difference in your organization, and it looks so pretty! Idea: Use black chalkboard paint to create a label on your canister. Once it is dry, use a chalk marker to write on the label you made.
Stencil on Your Clothes
Do you have a stubborn stain on one of your favorite shirts? Cover it up with acrylic paint and a stencil design! You have saved your favorite shirt, and it looks like you added something new to your wardrobe; it is a win-win! Once the acrylic paint is dry, you can wash and dry your painted clothing. Once it has been through the dryer, it is 100% permanent. Or, try adding a stencil design to your shoes! I recommend using a fabric marker or permanent marker to get the job done.
Where to Buy Bullet Journal Stencils
Buy Stencils in a Store
Stencils are pretty easy to find when you’re looking for them. I generally find them in craft stores like Hobby Lobby, Michael’s, and Johan’s Fabric. You can also find them in stores like Walmart or Target.
Buy Stencils & Bullet Journal Stencil Sets Online
Amazon - I purchased my favorite stencil set on Amazon. They are very affordable and come in large packs. The one I bought came in a pack of 20 stencils and was under ten dollars when I purchased it. I have added these stencils to my Amazon store if you would like to take a look! (Click HERE to visit my store) *Paid Link for qualifying purchases.
Etsy- There are some gorgeous stencils you can find hand crafted on Etsy. They come in all shapes, designs, materials, and sizes.
DIY Bullet Journal Stencils - (Video Below)
I want to share one last thing for all of you dedicated artists and crafters out there; how you can make your very own bullet journal stencil!
Sometimes you have an idea in mind, but you can’t find that perfect stencil; I’ve been there! If you own a Cricut machine or know someone who does, you’re in business! You can upload whatever design file you want, cut it out, and voila! You have your very own stencil!
My wonderful Aunt helped me make a stencil to use when I paint a pair of white canvas shoes soon. I’m excited to see how they turn out!
Check out this awesome tutorial from Corrine Blackstone on YouTube to see how to make a DIY stencil yourself!
If you’d like to explore the Cricut website and see what’s available, Shop Cricut Here! (*Affiliate Link)
Wrapping up Bullet Journal Stencils & Stencil Sets
Thank you for stopping by today and learning about bullet journal stencils and how you can use them! I hope you found this post inspiring and helpful.
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