Tag: stencil

Posted on by — 1 Comment

How to Make Custom Stencils with a Silhouette Machine: Tips, Materials & Project Ideas

Silhouette Secrets+ with EllyMae

Ready to unlock the full potential of your Silhouette machine? Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, stenciling is a fun and versatile technique that can transform almost any project. In this post, I’m sharing creative stencil ideas you can cut right now with your Silhouette—think custom doormats, etched glass, painted wood signs, fabric decor, layered art journaling, and more. You’ll also find must-know tips for designing stencils, multiple stencil materials that can be cut, and step-by-step tutorials below too! This blog post is packed with Silhouette information, tips, and tutorials—so make sure to bookmark it for future reference.

Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Stencils can be created from many different materials. Cardstock, adhesive vinyl, plastic stencil materials, and more! I’m sharing some of those materials below with tips and tutorials to help you design and create in Silhouette Studio.

Crafting Creativity Projects – Silhouette & Stencils

Project #1 – Custom Stencils with Silhouette Stencil Material

Create your own stencils with basic shapes and patterns in the Silhouette Studio software.

A silhouette cutting machine with a light blue mat displaying two custom stencils in geometric shapes, alongside a clear storage container holding small cut-out pieces and labels.

I created these 2 stencil patterns and cut them from the Silhouette non-adhesive stencil material using the Silhouette Autoblade.

Silhouette stencil material packs displayed on a work surface next to a Silhouette cutting machine.

Silhouette has both adhesive backed and non-adhesive backed stencil material as shown above. One might work better for your projects versus another. Since my plan was to use the stencil on a flat material like mixed media paper, I didn’t really need it to be sticky on the backside.

A Silhouette cutting machine positioned on a wooden surface with blue stencil material and cut-out shapes displayed.

I also kept all the negative bits that were cut out from this stencil for a possible future project. They could be used as elements on a card, creating a pattern on a card, as a stencil by itself, and more!

I used this stencil with some TCW stencil butter to create a background on mixed media paper.

Workspace with stencils, paint, and a heat gun, featuring teal and gold colors, used for crafting projects.

Then I pressed a piece of bubble wrap into the stencil butter to give it even more texture.

A sheet of white paper featuring blue, textured triangle shapes arranged in a geometric pattern. Tools and materials are partially visible on the side, suggesting a creative crafting project.

Make sure to let the stencil butter dry completely before touching it. I sometimes get impatient, so having a heat gun can be handy to help speed up the process too.

I shared how I created these stencil designs in the video below.

Supplies Used:

Handy Tools to Have:

Additional Resources:

Project #2 – Stencils with Adhesive Vinyl

I use adhesive vinyl for many different projects as a stencil such as glass etching, painting, or in this project below – I was trying it with a Scorch marker for wood burning.

When creating a stencil with adhesive vinyl, weed out the design and that creates the stencil. In the photo below, I have weeded the flower design out of the black adhesive vinyl. I use basic shapes such as a rectangle around the design to create the outer edge of the stencil. The actual project I’m creating will determine the size of the shape I place around my design for the stencil outer edge. For projects such as painting or glass etching, I will give myself plenty of space around the design. For something smaller, as shown below, I don’t need as much extra space since it will be close to the edge of the blank being used.

Workspace featuring a Silhouette cutting machine with various stencil designs on a blue mat, alongside wooden shapes and craft tools.

Now, in this case, my project failed, but I’m still sharing it with you because it happens! Projects don’t turn out, projects fail and what you see on social media is not always reality.

Four painted wooden teardrop shapes on a wooden surface, with a Scorch marker positioned nearby.

These wood earring blanks were a bit too porous, and the Scorch marker liquid just bled too much. It looks more like those therapy cards – What shape do you see?

And that’s just how it goes sometimes. Some projects fail!

Here is another example of adhesive vinyl cut for stencils that I was using for glass etching.

A Silhouette cutting machine with five custom cut designs featuring a longhorn skull and the number '3-7-77' on a blue surface.

And this one turned out fabulous!

A crystal decanter with a matching set of four engraved glasses, each featuring a bull skull design and the inscription '3-7-77'. The glasses are positioned next to the decanter on a neutral backdrop.

Additional Resources for the tools I used to create the design:

Supplies Used:

Project #3 – Layered Stencil with Plastic Stencil Material

We see a lot of questions by users on cutting stencil materials. Typically, it is in reference to plastic materials that a user is trying to cut. While Silhouette machines can cut a lot of different materials, there are limits and it is not just about thickness, but also density and composition.

A hand holding a stencil sheet with flower patterns, positioned next to a Silhouette cutting machine on a workspace with a cutting mat.

Another thing to keep in mind is that stencil material is plastic and plastic will dull the blade quicker than other materials. It is perfectly normal to have to increase the blade settings or passes the more that is cut. And if you are cutting this material a lot, you may go through more blades than other thinner, easier to cut materials.

I cut this 6 mil stencil material using the preset for Stencil Material in the Silhouette Studio software. All I changed was to increase the passes to 2 and then when that started having a few hang ups, I increased it to 3 passes.

Screenshot of Silhouette Studio software showing a design workspace with flowers and circles. The interface displays cutting settings and options for stencil material.

The settings that work for you will depend on the blade sharpness, material, and your machine. There is no perfect setting that works for all users magically.

I do recommend cutting one stencil design at a time. This way you can catch any issues before you’ve wasted time and materials.

Do not unload the cutting mat before you check the cut and if it did not cut through you can send it again.

I was using the same Autoblade that I used with the Silhouette Stencil material mentioned above and it’s still going strong with the settings pictured above on the 6 mil stencil material.

The hardest part for me was that I had to stop the design and creation process and move on to other things. Once you get started cutting, it is easy to get wrapped up in the projects. Here are a couple more I cut before I moved on to the next phase – using the stencils.

A Silhouette cutting machine with two stencil designs placed on a wooden table. One stencil features floral patterns, while the other has text with an inspirational quote.
​Designs by Kassy’s Parlour

Now to test the stencils with some Kingart mixed media gel sticks. I love how it turned out!

An assortment of colorful markers beside sketched floral designs and hearts on paper, with a ruler and crafting tools visible on a wooden workspace.

Want to learn even more on how I designed the layered stencil used to create the design pictured above? Check out video tutorial below or on the Silhouette Secrets+ YouTube channel.

And there is more!!! A follower asked for more design tutorials after seeing the video above. So, I also shared how to quickly design a flower and a heart in Silhouette too!

Click the images above or the links below to watch these quick tutorials:

Supplies Used:

Handy Tools:

Project #4 – Stencil Fonts

When working with stencils whether it is a design or a font, the pieces have to all remain in the stencil somehow. If a piece is completely cut out, it will fall out of the stencil.

Screenshot of the Silhouette Studio software displaying stencil letters with the text 'ABCDOPQR' highlighted in a bold font style.

For instance, for letters A, B, D, O, P, Q, and R, they all have “counters”, which are the centers of the design that would fall out when cut. In order to cut as a stencil and remain in place, the letter needs a “bridge” so it can be held in place when cut.

I typed in “stencil font” to the Silhouette Design Store search and many options come up. All kinds of styles and the perfect one will vary based on your project and taste.

A collage of various stencil font designs available for cutting with a Silhouette machine, showcasing different styles and fonts labeled with their names and prices.

A few I own are:

You can see my taste varies and some of these will cut better at larger sizes than smaller. Each project may vary and you never really know until you test it.

The fastest way to create a stencil font is to use a premade font file, but you can also create your own from a font. This works best with a bold font where you can make “bridges” to help hold the centers (counters) of the letters in place.

A Silhouette cutting machine is positioned next to a cutting mat displaying a stencil with the text: "MAKE WAVES, NOT WORRIES. GO WITH THE FLOW. DON'T BE CRABBY. SALTY AIR, NOT MOODS. SEAS LIFE'S MOMENTS. SHELL-ABRATE THE LITTLE THINGS."

I used a font style called Grossura to create the stencil quote shown above.

Once you see how easy it is to alter a font, you may not want to stop creating and the ideas may just continue to flow. See how easy it is in this video tutorial below or on the Silhouette Secrets+ YouTube channel HERE.

Supplies Used:

There is so many different projects you can create with stencils! And you can apply the same techniques and design steps to other projects as well. I hope you’ve picked up a few new ideas and techniques!

Looking for more creative ideas and inspiration? Check out the Crafting Creativity blog posts for a treasure trove of fun and unique projects! Each month, I share a fresh collection of craft ideas designed to spark your imagination and help you expand your skills with confidence. Don’t miss out—your next favorite project could be just a click away!

Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.

Collage of images showcasing custom stencils created with a Silhouette machine, featuring various designs and crafting materials.

Enjoy !

THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee.
Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.

Silhouette Classes

Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!

shop classes
Silhouette step-by-step Classes by Silhouette Secrets+

Silhouette Secrets+ with EllyMae
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Posted on by — Leave a comment

Alcohol Ink Backgrounds with Grafix Dura-Bright White

Grafix Dura-Bright Alcohol Ink Backgrounds
Silhouette Secrets+ with EllyMae

I had so much fun playing with alcohol inks and the Grafix Dura-Bright White creating a background that I used for several different projects!

Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

This project took on a life of it’s own as I went. I started with the idea to create a card and a bookmark, but ended up letting the art talk to me and see where it went. I love it!!!!

Alcohol Ink Backgrounds for cards, bookmarks, and framed decor with Grafix Dura-Bright.

Anyone can do this! I used alcohol ink and dropped it onto the Dura-Bright White and moved it around with an air blower. While the background was drying, I cut some designs out of Oracal 651 white adhesive vinyl. After the Dura-Bright was fully dry, I cut it up into several sizes for the projects, then added a laminate overlay on top to protect the alcohol ink design. Finished off the designs with the adhesive vinyl decal on top.

Alcohol Ink Background Framed Design with Grafix Dura-Bright White

While creating the intended designs, another idea was born, and I just rolled with it. Now I have a framed piece of art for my desk. I love it!!!!

Additional Resources:

Check out the video on the Grafix Arts YouTube channel where I share how I did this HERE and I’ve included a supply list below too!

Supplies used for Alcohol Ink Backgrounds with Grafix Dura-Bright:

Designs I used in the video:

Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.

Grafix Dura-Bright Alcohol Ink Backgrounds

Enjoy !

THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee.
Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.

Silhouette Classes

Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!

shop classes
Silhouette step-by-step Classes by Silhouette Secrets+

Silhouette Secrets+ with EllyMae
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Posted on by — 1 Comment

Grafix Frisket Film with Silhouette

Frisket Film Card Designs
Silhouette Secrets+ with EllyMae

There are so many possibilities when you have a cutting machine and can cut any design that you want. Combine that with the Grafix Frisket Film and wow! Endless card designs and projects you can create. I’m sharing a few cards I created below and I hope it sparks some ideas of projects you could create too!

Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

For this project I used several flower designs in Silhouette Studio and cut those from the Grafix Frisket Film on the Silhouette Cameo 5. You could use any brand of cutting machine or a die cut machine as well to cut the Grafix Frisket Film.

Silhouette Studio Setup Flower Designs

Cut settings for materials can vary by machine, blade life, material, and more! Test cuts are the only way you will know for sure what will work best and not waste materials.

For the Grafix Frisket Film, I used Silhouette settings of:
Blade Depth – 2, Force – 10, and Speed – 5

Additional Resources:

Cards with Grafix Frisket Film

Take a look at these stunning cards—yes, you can create them too! I am sharing the video tutorial and supply list below to start crafting your own beautiful designs today!

Grafix Frisket Film to Create Cards with Silhouette

Find the new video on the Grafix Arts YouTube channel where I share how I did this HERE and I’ve included a supply list below too!

Supplies used for Creating Cards with Grafix Frisket Film:

Flower Designs I used in the video:

Grafix Frisket Film Cards Close Up

Every card you create can be unique and you can use the Grafix Frisket Film over and over again or cut new designs to use too!

Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.

Grafix Frisket Film for Card Masking

Enjoy !

THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee.
Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.

Silhouette Classes

Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!

shop classes
Silhouette step-by-step Classes by Silhouette Secrets+

Silhouette Secrets+ with EllyMae
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Posted on by — Leave a comment

Create Custom Stencils: Using Grafix Stencil Film with Your Silhouette Machine

Grafix Stencil Film with Silhouette and Artesprix
Silhouette Secrets+ with EllyMae

Have you ever made your own custom stencils? Combining Grafix Stencil Film with a Silhouette cutting machine opens up endless possibilities for creative projects and designs. You can easily create a wide variety of customized pieces! Using the Silhouette, a design by Sarah Hurley, and Grafix Stencil Film, I created a custom stencil that can be used over and over again.

Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

For this project I used Artesprix Sublimation inks with the custom cut Grafix Stencil Film and created a sublimation journal cover.

DIY Stencils with Grafix Stencil Film and Silhouette

I would recommend having a dedicated blade for cutting different materials. This will help to increase the lifespan on the blades, as well as help with future cut issues. Each material will dull the blade differently and stencil material is plastic, so that does affect it differently than say cutting a much thinner material such as adhesive vinyl.

The best thing you can do is test cut to determine what settings are going to work for your blade, machine model, and the materials being used.

Silhouette settings used:

After the cut is finished, check the cut to see if it cut completely through before unloading the mat from the machine. I have to tell myself this constantly because I’m so quick to press that unload button, but it can save you time and materials if you get in the habit of checking the cut first and if it did not cut through, then you can send it again and it should cut in the same exact location.

Additional Resources:

Custom Stencils with Grafix Stencil Film and Silhouette

Check out the new video on the Grafix Arts YouTube channel where I share how I did this HERE and I’ve included a supply list below too!

Supplies used for DIY Custom Stencils with Grafix Stencil Film:

Custom Sublimation Journal with Artesprix Sublimation Inks, Grafix Stencil Film, and Silhouette

What kind of projects would you create with your own custom stencils? Let us know in the comments below, we would love to hear from you!

Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.

Grafix Stencil Film for DIY Custom Stencils with Silhouette and Artesprix

Enjoy !

THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee.
Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.

Silhouette Classes

Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!

shop classes
Silhouette step-by-step Classes by Silhouette Secrets+

Silhouette Secrets+ with EllyMae
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Posted on by — 1 Comment

Custom Wine Themed Towels with Stencils & Artesprix

Silhouette Secrets+ with EllyMae

Looking for a creative and personalized way to elevate your kitchen or gift-giving game? Custom wine-themed towels using stencils and Artesprix sublimation products are the perfect solution! This DIY project combines the versatility of Artesprix sublimation markers with the precision of stenciling to create vibrant, professional-looking designs that celebrate your love for wine. Whether you’re crafting for yourself or preparing a thoughtful gift, these custom towels are a fun and easy way to add a touch of elegance and personality to any space. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create your own stunning wine-themed towels!

Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This month for the new Artesprix YouTube video I am sharing tips & tricks to using stencils with the Artesprix sublimation projects and creating custom kitchen towels.
With the Artesprix products, there is no sublimation printer required, so you can play and create without a huge investment into equipment.

Wine Themed Kitchen Towels using Artesprix sublimation inks

Check out the new video HERE on the Artesprix YouTube channel.

I share how you can use either the Artesprix stamp pads or the Artesprix markers with the stencils to create a project. Each one can give you just a little bit different look and it’s so fun to see what those differences are.

Artesprix Sublimation inks with stencils for custom kitchen towels

You can see there is a bit of color variation in each of the designs above. I love it!

Wine Themed Kitchen Towels and Wine bag with Artepsrix Sublimation Inks

I found my wine stencils on Amazon, but you could also cut your own stencils using your cutting machine and a stencil material or plastic, even cardstock would work for short term designs. I fell in love with these wine glass designs and just had to use them.

Artesprix Sublimation Supplies to Create Custom Wine Themed Kitchen Towels

Artesprix Sublimation Supplies

Custom Wine bag with stencil and Artesprix Sublimation Inks

Check out the new YouTube video HERE.

I knew I had one final touch to add to these kitchen towels to display them in my kitchen. Check out the post HERE where I added that touch.

I absolutely love working with Artesprix products—they always spark my creativity and leave me inspired with even more ideas for future projects. Find more projects I’ve created using the Artesprix sublimation products HERE.

I’ll be sharing more so make sure to follow Artesprix on social media to see more projects!
Artesprix YouTube channel
Artesprix Blog
Artesprix Facebook Page
Artesprix Iron-on-Ink Inspirational Group

Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.

Custom Wine Themed Kitchen Towel with Artesprix Sublimation Products Pinterest

Grab some Artesprix sublimation products and get to creating today!

Enjoy !

THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee.
Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.

Silhouette Classes

Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!

shop classes
Silhouette step-by-step Classes by Silhouette Secrets+

Silhouette Secrets+ with EllyMae
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

CitriStrip Etching on Powder Coated Tumbler

This has been a very popular technique that has popped up in the last year.
I have made several tumblers with it and love it!

Etched Powder Coated Tumbler with CitriStrip and Silhouette

Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Did you know you could etch a design on a powder coated tumbler?
Well, it’s not really “etching”, but that is still the term used in the industry.
It’s really the same process as glass etching with an etching cream such as Etchall or Armour Etch. The etching cream is “eating” away at the surface of the object. In the case of glass, it’s an acid etching the glass. But, the same process is done with CitriStrip, which is a paint stripper. So it’s basically “eating” the powder coated surface off the tumbler.

I have another new video that I’ve just released on the Silhouette Secrets+ YouTube channel showing this technique and sharing tips for success with the CitriStrip Etching.

CitriStrip Etching a Powder Coated Tumbler

Check out the new video HERE or click the photo above.

The process of creating the stencil could be done with any cutting machine model.

Supplies for the CitriStrip Etching

I’m Not Perfect by Tanya Batrak – Design #326840 (modified details below)
Powder Coated Tumbler
*not all tumblers work – the ones I’ve linked I have had great success with. Other styles that are painted vs powder coated, I have not.
Oracal 651 Adhesive Vinyl
Transfer Tape
Citristrip Paint Stripper
Painters Tape
Gloves
Weeding tool
Paper towels, water
Optional: Artesprix Project Mat
*this is great for working with sublimation projects or a safe surface so your tumbler doesn’t roll

Want to learn how to create your own designs?

The CitriStrip video demonstration was created for a class I developed earlier this year that does just that!

In the video class, you will learn how to create 4 different designs in the Silhouette Studio software, including how I modified the design used in the video demonstration.

Silhouette Class Creating Unique Designs in Silhouette Studio

For more details on the class check out the full description HERE on Teachable.

I also have a Glass Etching class on my Teachable site too!

Glass Etching with Silhouette

Find all the details on the Glass Etching Class HERE

I have been teaching Silhouette classes since 2016 and cover a wide variety of topics.
What are you looking for?

Silhouette step-by-step classes by Silhouette Secrets+ with EllyMae

Check out all the classes available on the Silhouette Secrets+ Teachable site HERE.

The classes are designed to help you get started faster and take the guess work out of designing or creating projects with your Silhouette.
No more anxiety or guessing, follow along at your own pace and watch as many times as needed to fully understand and retain the information.
I hope you find something that will help you in your Silhouette journey!

If you have a suggestion on a class you’d like to see in the future, I would love to hear your ideas. You can make those suggestions HERE.

As I mentioned above, I have made several of these tumblers.
Here is one of the first ones we made.

Powder Coated Tumblers for Swift Creek Customs with CitriStrip and Silhouette Studio

You can find the video on us creating the ones pictured above HERE on the Swift Creek Customs YouTube channel too! This was a video I partnered with my husband on and was really a test to see if it really worked!

I hope you have a chance to be creative today!

Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.

Pinterest Citristrip Etching a Powder Coated Tumbler

Enjoy !

THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee.
Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.

Silhouette Classes

Never stop learning! Let me help you take the anxiety out of learning with Silhouette and get to creating faster! My Silhouette classes are heavily focused on software, so you can take the skills & techniques taught and apply them to many future projects!

shop classes
Silhouette step-by-step Classes by Silhouette Secrets+

SS Logo snip it
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Posted on by — 1 Comment

New Silhouette class – Glass Etching

Let me tell you, this class was challenging. Teaching how to use Silhouette is the easy part that I can do with my eyes closed (maybe most of the time). However, the tech issues, it was non-stop for me this round. And not Silhouette tech issues, but everything else, from recording software to the editing process.
It was driving me batty!
But 2 days and many hours later, I got it finished, with a few cuss words at the editing/recording software.

Glass etching is not difficult to do and I share my tips & tricks in this 1 hour 42 minute video class. In the class, I share cutting tips for measuring, sizing, and cutting 4 different stencils on 2 different materials. I cut from Oracal 651 and Oramask 813. Then I also demonstrated and provided tips to applying the stencils to 4 different shaped objects.
For the class, you do not have to use the same glass objects or do all of the projects, but it will give you ideas so you could use a wide variety of blanks.

The most difficult part of glass etching is getting a good photo of it due to the glass and glare.

Find all the details on the class

HERE

Affiliate links may be present in the following blog post and as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

I’ve included the class supply list below to help prepare for what I used in the class.

Supplies needed:

– Silhouette machine
– Etchall Etching Cream – Amazon or – Etchall.com use code silhouettesecretsplus and save 10%
*This class uses Etchall cream. Using other brands of etching cream may not yield the same results. Etchall can be reused so is a great investment.
– Oracal 651 or 631
– Oramask 813
– Transfer tape
– Alcohol swabs
– Silhouette spatula or popsicle stick
– Painters Tape
– Rubber gloves
– Access to a sink & paper towels

Glass products demonstrated:
– Stemless wine glass
– Mason jar drinking glass
– Jewelry box: Gray, White, or Burlap
– Glass Candle holders from Dollar Tree

*Not all glass items can be etched. Tempered glass cannot, cookware from Ikea cannot, etc. The only way to know is to test it out for sure.

**You do not have to have the same items that I am using for class, but I will share some tips for these different shaped objects using the items in the photo above.

Designs used in class demonstration:
– Holly from Christmas design by Sarah Hurley – Design #334881
– Snowflakes by Erica Digital Designs – Design #379892
– Monogram Wreath Font by Kristen Magee – Design #260225
– Split & Full Flourish Monogram E (class demo) or Split & Full Flourish Monogram K (class photos) – by artist Kolette Hall
– Mom Juice created with a bold font
* These are just design examples and do not have to be exact. We will discuss design tips in the class and what can be easier to get a good etch with.

It is so fun to be able to customize glass items for gifts and Silhouette makes that easy.

Here are a few more things that I have etched with the same techniques as we cover in the class.

Glass coffee mug from Target
You Can Do This – Coffee design by Jillibean Soup – Design #218802

Glass Cookie Jar from Michaels etched for K pod storage
Coffee Canister Label by Chameleon Cuttable – Design #349557

More etched jewelry boxes I made for Christmas gifts
Split & Full Flourish Monogram – G by Kolette Hall – Design #128840
Split & Full Flourish Monogram – A by Kolette Hall – Design #128858

Glass etching is a great way you can personalize a gift too!

Like 25 glass mason jars from Michaels to be filled with candy as Thank You gifts.
Add a Print and Cut thank you note and ta-da!

Yes! Etchall etching cream works on glass and slate!

Slate serving trays from Johnson Plastics
Eat Drink and Be Thankful by Jillibean Soup – Design #280222
Monogram Family by Lori Whitlock – Design #271080

So many options! I hope that has given you some ideas.
Check out the Glass Etching with Silhouette class HERE and start perfecting your technique today!

Or check out the 19 other Silhouette classes available on my Teachable site HERE.

I’d love seeing what you are creating with your Silhouette machines or software.
Feel free to post photos or questions on my Facebook group at 
Silhouette Secrets with EllyMae.

Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.

Enjoy!

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is logo.jpg

THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee.
Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.

Or if you are looking for more in-depth, step-by-step classes, check out all of my online Silhouette classes on my Teachable site HERE.

SS Logo snip it
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Posted on by — Leave a comment

Silhouette Spotlight – Adria.Crafts

Today I want to share with you a Silhouette Secrets+ follower that I find inspiring.

Note: this post is photo heavy as I share these amazing projects

I first spotted her projects on my Silhouette Secrets+ with EllyMae Facebook group and I was just in awe. I then had to follow her on Instagram to see all her amazing creations.

This fellow Silhouette user and follower is Adria.Crafts.
Let me share a few of her creations and then I asked her a few questions about her projects.

I think this was the very first project I spotted of hers that she shared.
This is a Happy Spring file by Jillibean Soup – Design #346324

And then she shared this one.

Solar System file by Abracadabra Art Store

And I was hooked.
Seeing her projects inspired me!

Q: How long have you had your Silhouette machine?

Adria.Crafts: I have owned a Silhouette for about 8 years. I started with the original Cameo and currently use a Cameo 3. When I first bought it, I did a lot of paper crafting. Party decorations, banners, flowers, and Christmas cards are my favorite!
Once I realized I could use the Cameo to cut vinyl stencils, I knew I wanted to make wood signs for my front porch. I took off with that and made signs for all holidays and anything else I though was fun.
As I got farther into sign making, I really wanted to figure out how to make shaped signs. My husband’s grandpa gifted us an old bandsaw which allowed me to start cutting the wood backers into shapes.
This Halloween cauldron is one of these.

Pot of Gold by Lori Whitlock – Design #251236

This is actually a Pot of Gold design that she created a double sided wood sign with for multi-use decoration.

Q: Can you explain how you use your Silhouette machine to create these wood projects?

Adria.Crafts: I use my Cameo to cut/sketch giant shapes of card stock.

From the Silhouette software to the Silhouette machine.

Then I trace or glue them to the wood to use as a stencil.

When I do big shapes I use the Tiling feature in the Silhouette Studio. If it’s a smaller item (the gingerbread house) I will use the sketch feature and cardstock to create the pattern/stencil.

The stencil is used as a guide to cut the pieces out with a scroll saw.

Gingerbread House Ornament by Amanda McGee –
Design #306200

Q: What is your favorite part about these projects?

Adria.Crafts: My favorite part of doing these projects is seeing how everything comes out in the end. I love finding designs in the Silhouette Design Store and other websites and turning them into real life 3-D art pieces. It is so rewarding turning a picture on the computer into something in real life.

Here are a few other creations by Adria.Crafts

Gingerbread Christmas Cookie by Lettering Designs –
Design #166081
Gnome Trio design by Wispy Willow Designs –
Design #341060
Hello Fall Gnome by Jillibean Soup – Design #382844

Check out Adria.Crafts for more amazing creations. There are even Valentine’s and Easter Gnomes too!

And she recently put up a video of the cutting process on her Instagram too. I watched several times in awe. Check it out HERE.

Every single week, I am blown away by creations that Silhouette users are doing. I love seeing the projects they are making. While I’ve been a Silhouette user for over 9 years, there are just some projects that are outside my area of expertise. I love being able to share with you one of those Silhouette Spotlight followers that stood out to me.

There are so many things you can do with the Silhouette machines!
Whether you are creating cards, party decorations, or using them in conjunction with other tools like a scroll saw – keep on creating!

I hope this has inspired you to be creative!

Thank you to Adria.Crafts for sharing your amazing creations with us!

I’d love seeing what you are creating with your Silhouette machines or software.
Feel free to post photos or questions on my Facebook group at 
Silhouette Secrets with EllyMae.

Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.

Enjoy!

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is logo.jpg

THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee.
Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.

Or if you are looking for more in-depth, step-by-step classes, check out all of my online Silhouette classes on my Teachable site HERE.

SS Logo snip it
**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.
Posted on by — 1 Comment

Hot Mess with your Silhouette Cameo

While the title could mean many things, this week it’s in reference to Spring Break at my house. I thought it would be a fun idea to try out this “Hot Mess” technique with the kids for a crafting project on Spring Break….

Now, I don’t know if it was a good idea to do this on Day 1 of Spring Break or not – would it have been better on Day 5? Who knows…. but I’m going to show you our results.

First, what is a Hot Mess? On some days, that could be my title but today I’m talking about a new crafting project that has everyone rushing out to pick up canvas from the craft store.

IMG_2483

How do you create these pieces of art?

  1. Grab a canvas and the paints you want to use. IMG_2446
  2. Paint any sort of pattern you so desire onto your canvas. Let it dry thoroughly.
  3. Cut a stencil using your Silhouette machine and some vinyl – I used Oracal 631 and 651. As you can see, this is what you get when you let an 8, 6 and almost 5 year old pick out their own stencil. IMG_2452
  4. Apply the stencil using transfer tape – I recommend Oracal transfer tape. You may need to help the vinyl stick to the canvas at first. Just be patient and go slow. IMG_2453
  5. And now paint your top layer of paint. You can choose any color you’d like, but we stuck with white on top. IMG_2456_edited
  6. Let that dry for a bit and then carefully peel off the vinyl stencil. You don’t want it to be too wet when you peel it and you don’t want the vinyl to sit on the canvas too long either as it may start to cure to the canvas.
  7. Let your works of art dry completely.

And there you have the “Hot Mess” technique.

I am so glad I did not start with the 12″ x 24″ canvas that jumped into my cart at Michael’s, as the kids were done after the first 30-40 minutes. And I can say it is a one and done crafting project for Spring Break 2018.

If you have any desire to use these same designs in your works of art, here is where I found them: – Enjoy this Moment by Kolette Hall Design #36196 from the Silhouette Design Store – Oh Poop! Quote by Sarah Hurley Design #209510 from the Silhouette Design Store – Cat by Basic Grey Design #65180 from the Silhouette Design Store – Other poo design created using tracing and point editing.

Next week we will be back to our “Let’s Explore v4” series, continuing through the different tools available to you in the Silhouette Studio v4 software.

In the meantime, check out the other posts in the Let’s Explore v4 Series HERE.

I would love to see what projects you create! Feel free to post on my Facebook group at Silhouette Secrets with EllyMae.

Enjoy !

THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee. Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.

Looking for more in-depth, step-by-step classes, check out all of my online Silhouette classes on my Teachable site HERE.

SS Logo snip it

**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Butcher print painted sign

I do not usually get in to the painted sign projects, but I needed a bit of kitchen decor and thought I would make one. You may be asking…. “Well, why doesn’t she paint signs?”

Well, I know I can do it and my hubby has a shop full of woodworking tools. But, honestly, it takes too long for me…. I like to slap a vinyl decal on something & call it good. That is what works for me.

I found the images here at The Mountain View Cottage’s blog.

I do want to note that these files are for personal use only and using them to sell items you make is illegal. The designer has provided the free printable files for personal use only and I ask that you keep that in mind when using. You can find out more information on Personal Use vs Commercial Use licenses on Cutting For Business‘ blog, which is a great resource.

Now on to how I did it. First, I pulled the printable file in to the Silhouette Studio program. It was a PDF file and in order to open that file type you need to have the Designer Edition Upgrade or higher of the Studio program. When I opened the PDF, I chose the option to import “As an image”.Next, was to trace my images. Since these were black printable files, they traced really nicely. I am using Silhouette Studio v4.1.201 and chose the Trace Panel on the right side of the Studio.

  Trace Panel copy

Then you choose “Select Trace Area” and draw a rectangle around your object. Your object will then turn yellow and you want it to be as solid yellow where ever you want it to trace.  For some objects, you may need to play with the settings in the Trace Panel to get the highest level possible for a good trace. I then clicked on the Trace option at the bottom of the Trace Panel.

Trace options copy

There are 3 Trace options at the bottom and the one I use the most is the top trace button that has the inner & outer butterfly shape. It will trace around the areas that have yellow on them, inside and outside of the object.

Once I had all of my objects traced, I then click on them to Select and use the Fill Color Panel to fill them all with color. This helps to visualize your design and makes it easier to move them around the software. I then measured my board and decided how big I wanted to make the design.

Silhouettesecrets_Fridgesign

I decide to give it a go cutting my vinyl without a mat. This is one of the perks of using a Silhouette machine, you do not have to use a mat if you are cutting a material that has a backing attached, such as adhesive vinyl or HTV. One thing to note when you are cutting without a mat is that you cannot cut as wide as you can with a mat. If you look at my photo above you can make out my red cut border around the edge of the white area, this is the software telling me it will not cut outside of that range. If you have a piece of 12″ vinyl, then it will take about 1/2″ of cutting area off of each side. You will also notice that it starts the cutting area on the edge of the vinyl on the left where the arrow is, this means it will start cutting almost immediately on your vinyl if that is where your image is. This differs from using a mat because the machine has to account for the edges around the grid area on the mat. So it makes a big difference if you tell the software you are cutting with or without a mat. You will also notice the Cut border on the right side of the design ends about an inch before my page size ends. This is the software telling me that it will stop cutting before it reaches the end of my material because the machine needs the space to grip the material & keep it in the machine.

Now, I will tell you that I highly recommend using a mat when you can for several reasons. The mat provides support for your material and gives it a solid surface to use when cutting. It also helps to hold your vinyl in place and there is less of a chance that it will move around and ruin your cut. However, the Silhouette does give you the ability to cut without a mat and it is a great feature, especially if you are cutting a lot of decals at once or one long decal. This ability to cut up to 10′ long sets it apart from other cutting machines.

On my Cameo 3, I needed to move my right roller in to the left just a bit to grip the vinyl. To do this, you unlock your roller and move it and then make sure to lock it back in place. The lock on the roller is very hard to see and is right next to the white roller, you twist to lock it back in. If you do not, then your vinyl will slide all over the place. You then line your vinyl up with the blue line & arrows on the left side and press load. After it cut, I then weeded out the parts of my design that would be my stencil and applied transfer paper.

Silhouettesecretsplus_vinylnomat

I painted my board with Black Chalkboard paint from my stash and let it dry a full 24 hours…. again, this is why I say I don’t paint boards often….. time involved.. watching paint dry. While it dried, I gathered my supplies and worked on other projects.

Silhouette-secrets001

I then applied my stencil using the hinged method, so I could get it as straight as I possibly could and not have it shift during application since it was so large.

Silhouette-secrets002

After I applied my stencil, it occurred to me that using black vinyl as a stencil on a black board was probably not the best idea. But, you go with it at this point. I then added a border of painters tape around the edges of my vinyl and board, so I would not accidentally paint an area I didn’t want to.

Silhouette-secrets003

I then sponged on my DecoArt Chalky Finish white paint. And let it dry for a couple hours. I had read a lot of posts that said to peel your stencil off while it was still wet, so I just kept coming back to check on it. You don’t want to do it while it’s too wet or it will smear and if you wait too long, then the vinyl could peel up more paint than you want.

Silhouette-secrets004

Now, after removing my big piece of stencil, came the task of weeding out all the little pieces inside of each animal……

Silhouette-secrets005

After I finished weeding out the inner pieces of vinyl, I let the entire piece dry for a good 48 hours. Once dry, I took a white piece of chalk and turned it sideways and “seasoned” the entire board to make it look more realistic.

Silhouette-secrets006

And here is my finished kitchen decor board… well, almost finished. It still needs a frame, which will require more time.

Silhouette-secrets007

The supplies I used for this project are:

Silhouette Studio Designer Edition software Cameo 3 cutting machine Oracal vinyl Transfer paper a board from my husband’s woodshop Craftsmart Black chalkboard paint from craft store DecoArt White Americana Decor Chalky Finish in white from craft store White Chalk

I am happy with how this sign turned out for my kitchen. The end result was exactly what I wanted, but it was no simple, quick project.

While I know that painting wood signs is not my preferred method…… I still encourage you to try a project out at least once. I may not paint a new sign every week, but I may have a few more in my future.

Enjoy !

THANK YOU for your support! How can you help? Click HERE & buy a coffee. Every little bit helps with the cost of running the site.

Looking for more in-depth, step-by-step classes, check out all of my online Silhouette classes on my Teachable site HERE.

SS Logo snip it

**This post may contain affiliate links. What that means is that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher but I may get compensated for sharing.