Reason #65 Stencils and Stamping

How many people have the opportunity to spend a Friday night learning how to make stencils?  I am not sure how many, but I did! Somehow I could trust my kids with putty knives, chisels, paint brushes, rollers, primer, and black chalkboard paint.  Somehow I couldn’t let them use ladders or exacto knives.  Do they always listen to me…well, not always. Those are other stories though.

Why did I have the opportunity to learn how to make stencils?  Well, there was a “slight” miscommunication and we asked someone to make the stencils.  When we got the envelope, we actually had the letters themselves.  A student went to the stencil maker and they were so efficient that they had already thrown out the “stencil” part according to our definition.  So, with not time nor desire to pay $70 for pre-made stencils. I had the pleasure of a trip to the hobby store to purchase supplies for this new experience and my Friday night entertainment.   

After a “few” hours, one loses track when hyper focused, I had some stencils all ready to go.  I was so proud!

With the same issue of time, we didn’t have a chance to order the cool shirts we designed. I realized the night before the interview that we didn’t have our message anywhere “We all have a voice!” and that was really important. So, with the newly purchased alphabet stamps that I got when I purchase stencil supplies and ribbon, I donated a white t-shirt to the cause and went at it.  What fun it was!  I soon was mixing colors, being non-linear with design and then added “Share yours!” which I believe finishes the message beautifully.  I was quite happy with my Thursday t-shirt making experience...and my students wonder what I do since I don’t watch television!

Stenciling and stamping, learning new skills….

That is why I teach