pdf can contain both vectors and rasters. To make things even more complicated, some files such as. You can get other types of vector files too. Depending on how you are viewing an image, you can tell if a file is a raster file because when you zoom in on it, you will see pixels. A jpeg is a raster type image file, and it is made up of pixels. You have probably heard of the file type. If you just want to get one with it, scroll down to “How to Make Stencils” below.Ī Raster is a bitmap. OK – this is the boring stuff, but it is useful to know the difference between the two. Though there are lots of online tutorials, it can be hard to know which search terms to use to find how to do a task. Software like this can be very daunting to pick up an use to begin with. Inkscape is a great quality vector graphics software. If you prefer to watch a video, you can go here or scroll to the end of this blog. Please note that this tutorial is best viewed on a Desktop or Tablet.

I’ll go into that more a bit later….Īnd of course, if you have a cricut or similar type cutter, you’ll already know how many crafts you find it useful for – and this method is perfect for making files to send to a cricut, laser cutter or CNC router, You can also use it to create logos when a printer needs certain file types. You can use it to make a mask for around a fiddly moulding to make it easier to paint. Besides, you may want to add some stencilling around mouldings, so in fact, these two embellishment types can go very well together.Īnd anyhoo, this method is great for other things besides making stencils. Well, sure, but I recognise that sometimes a moulding may not be in keeping with the design aesthetic that you are going for. “Hang on – why are you showing us how to make stencils? Surely you want people to buy your mouldings?” I hear you ask. In this tutorial, I will take you step by step through how to make stencils using Inkscape.

Inkscape gradient bending