What Is a Pounce Pattern?
A pounce pattern is a paper pattern that transfers an outline from a small sketch onto a much larger surface. First, we lay the sketched outline over a sheet of pattern paper and trace it with a pounce wheel, which pricks a row of tiny holes along every line. Next, we dab charcoal powder through the holes, so a dotted outline remains on the surface. Then we carefully paint the outline so it matches the original exactly. Finally, once the paint dries, we apply the finish.
Pounce patterns are critical for hand lettering, gilding, and mural painting. In the photo above, a paper pounce pattern is taped to the transom of a classic wooden yacht. After we apply the charcoal powder, we paint and gild the boat name by hand, following the charcoal lines.
What Are Pounce Patterns Used For?
Pouncing is an art technique for transferring an image from one surface to another. It is similar to tracing, and it helps artists copy a sketch to produce finished work. A pounce wheel, also known as a tracing wheel, makes the pricked holes.
In fact, artists have used pouncing for centuries (the technique is also called spolvero). They used it to copy portraits and other works that became oil paintings, engravings, and more.
How Do You Make a Pounce Pattern?
The most common method starts with semi-transparent paper laid over the original image. Then, trace along the lines of the image by pricking marks through the top sheet. Next, lay this pricked drawing over a new working surface. After that, force a powder such as chalk, graphite, or pastel through the holes to leave an outline on the surface below. To apply the powder, place it in a small bag of thin fabric such as cheesecloth, and dab it onto the holes.
How to Use Pounce Patterns: an Example
Look closely at this photo. Brendon paints a letter by hand, following the charcoal lines on the wall that we applied with the pounce pattern. This brush lettering job was at the Colony Club in Washington, DC.
A pounce pattern works on almost any material, including wood, paper, and metal. Best of all, there is no size limit.
We also use similar paper patterns to install dimensional letters on interior and exterior walls. Read more about our paper patterns for dimensional letters.
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