Stenciled Writing Paper and Envelopes

This pretty stationery set is simple to make and is an ideal gift for Mom!

From The Make-It-Yourself Gift Book

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Writing paper is always a welcome gift. Plain paper and envelopes take on a customized look when you apply this simple stenciled ribbon pattern, or you can use the pattern of your choice. The stenciling looks particularly effective on handmade or recycled paper.

You Will Need

Writing paper and envelopes

Artist's acrylic paints: gold and black

Paintbrushes: 1 medium, 1 small stenciling

Stencil film or treated manila cardboard, at least 2"x10"

Spray adhesive

Tracing paper

Pencil

Transfer paper

Craft knife

Ballpoint pen

Cutting mat or board

What to Do
Making the Stencils
1. Trace the design onto tracing paper and, using transfer paper and ballpoint pen, transfer the design onto the sheet of stencil film.

2. Using the craft knife and cutting board, cut out the ribbon design.

Stenciling the Design Onto the Notepaper
1. Spray the back of the stencil very lightly with adhesive.

2. Place the stencil about 3/4" from the top or bottom of the notepaper. Using the medium paintbrush and black paint, stencil the design.

3. Lift the stencil off the notepaper very carefully to prevent smudging and wipe it with a clean rag before applying it to the next sheet of paper.

4. Stencil each sheet of writing paper with the black paint. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly.

5. Using the small paintbrush and gold paint, shade in the center of the bow and the spaces between each piece of ribbon.

Stenciling the Design Onto the Envelopes
1. Place the stencil at an angle across the left-hand corner of the envelopes and stencil as much of the design as will fit onto the envelope. Stencil and paint the design in the same way as for the writing paper. Remember to leave enough of the surface plain to write an address and apply a stamp.

2. Add further interest by stenciling the bow onto the lower section of the envelope flap.

Stencil pattern
Trace the design onto the tracing paper and transfer it to the stencil film. Carefully cut the design from the stencil film with a craft knife.