Stencil library
Tattoo stencils by subject
Sixteen subjects, from roses and skulls to pet portraits, each with an example stencil, what a clean version of it needs, style notes, placement sizes and the steps to make your own from a reference.
- 16 subjects
- Two real app outputs, labelled
- Line work ready for thermal paper
- Updated Oct 4, 2026
Pick a subject
How to use this library
- Open the subject closest to the client's idea and read what a clean stencil of it needs. Most subjects fail in one predictable place: the mane on a lion, the scales on a koi, the lashes on an eye.
- Pick the style section that matches the tattoo. Fine line, traditional, realism and blackwork each want a different amount of detail in the stencil.
- Follow the conversion steps with your own reference. Every page lists what to crop, how far to push contrast, and what to fix by hand before printing.
- Check the placement notes for size and for multi-sheet prints, then try it on at real size before the appointment.
What every stencil here has in common
- Edges, not shading. A thermal transfer carries lines; the artist renders values with the needle.
- One line weight for the outline and a lighter one for inner detail. Mixed weights from separate conversions are the most common reason stencils look wrong on skin.
- Simplified texture. Fur, scales, feathers and petals are shown by direction and a few representative shapes.
- Honest labelling. Two subjects are real app output; the rest are samples in the same style, and each page says which.
Frequently asked questions
Are these stencils free to download?
They are examples, not downloads. The point of each page is what a clean stencil of that subject looks like and how to make one from your own reference, so the stencil fits your client and your size.
Are the stencils real Stencify output?
The snake and the golden retriever are real conversions from photo references. The other subjects are sample stencils in the same line-work style, labelled as such on each page.
What size do these print at?
Stencify exports PNG or PDF sized for A4 or US letter stencil paper at 100 percent. Larger pieces print across two or more sheets with the join marked on each page.
Which subjects are coming next?
Butterfly, cross, skeleton hand, heart, angel, lotus, medusa and owl are the most requested subjects not yet in the library.
Related reading
- Tattoo Stencil Designs - the gallery with notes on line weight
- How to Make a Tattoo Stencil - the full method
- Tattoo stencil app comparisons - Stencify against eight other apps
Make a stencil of any subject
Photo, sketch or text description in, clean line work out in about 30 seconds. Two free uses, then $4.99 a week or $47.99 a year.
