How to Use Doll Face Stencils – Create Perfect Doll Faces

Doll Face Stencil Art – Styles & Uses

Doll face stencil art is a fun and easy way to give your handmade dolls clean, balanced faces without drawing everything by hand. Using a reusable doll face template, you can quickly place the eyes, mouth, and other features exactly where you want them — neat and even every time.

These stencils work beautifully on soft fabric dolls, felt creations, or even painted wooden figures. Some designs are simple — just two eyes and a smile — while others include finer details like eyelashes, brows, or even tiny freckles.

You’ll find different types to suit your style:

• Embroidery face stencils – perfect for neat stitched outlines
• Painted face templates – great for fabric or acrylic paints
• Multi-part stencils – where each layer adds color or detail

The one you choose depends on how detailed you want your doll to look. Some makers even mix techniques — like painting the eyes and embroidering the mouth — for extra charm. And because these stencils are reusable, they’re perfect if you’re making many dolls or selling your handmade work.

Dolls with Simple Face Stencils

Dolls with Detailed Face Stencils

What Are Those Little Dots on the Stencil?

Those small dots you see on the edges of a doll face stencil are called registration marks. They help you line up your stencil in the right spot — especially if you’re using more than one layer.

Simple stencils might have just one or two marks, while multi-layer designs often have four (top, bottom, left, right) for perfect alignment. These marks make it easier to place features consistently, even when making several dolls. You can lightly trace them with fabric chalk or pencil, and wipe them away when you’re done.

Doll Face Stenciling

Using a doll face stencil is simple. Just place it on your fabric, felt, or wooden doll head, then trace the features with a fabric pen or fill them in with paint.

If you’re painting, use a dry brush or sponge with very little paint to avoid smudging. For embroidery, you can trace the lines lightly and stitch over them. Let each layer dry before adding more, and always test on scrap fabric first if you’re unsure.

That’s it — no need to overthink it. The stencil does most of the work for you.

Quick Tips for Using Doll Face Stencils

• Use low-tack tape or spray adhesive to keep the stencil in place
• Test first on scrap fabric before using it on your doll
• Less paint = better results — always dab, don’t brush
• Let each layer dry if using multi-part stencils
• Trace lightly if you’re planning to embroider
• Wipe your stencil clean after each use so it lasts longer