Stenciling is an ancient tradition that was practiced by
the Egyptians, Romans, and the Japanese. It truly is an
old fashioned art form. Luckily for us, it's one that is simple
to master with the right tools and techniques.
The key to stenciling is patience. It's not a quick process.
It's one that needs to be done little by little with a slow hand
and a focus on what you are trying to accomplish. Here are
some tips to help you with your projects:
-Flat and satin surfaces stencil easiest. The glossier the
surface the more difficult it is for the paint to adhere. If you
are trying to stencil a glossy area, lightly sand it first with a
very fine sandpaper. After the stencil is completed you can
coat it with a glossy sealer to restore the shine.
-Color Tips: You will need a different brush for each color you
are using in your project. Stenciling is basically a "dry brush"
technique and trying to rinse the brush in-between the colors
would take too long because the brush needs to be completely
dry when you stencil. When using more than one color start
with the lightest color, allow each one to dry, then continue on
with the colors, doing the darkest last.
-The Stencil: Painter's masking tape that is removable can be
used to adhere the stencil to the surface you are working on.
You can also use a low-tack adhesive spray. Both work well,
but everyone has their preference. Try both and see how it
works for you.
-Painting: As mentioned this is a "dry" technique. It's a process
of dabbing the brush in the paint, then using a circular motion on
a paper towel or clean rag to remove excess paint. Do this 2-3
times. You will end up with very little paint on the brush, and it will
appear dry, but then you brush or dab on the stencil at this point,
then repeat the technique until the color is the way you want it. It's
a process of layering on the color...there is no rushing.
-Positioning: You can use a chalk line or a chalk pencil to mark
where you need to stencil your design. Make sure it's even with
a level or by measuring from the bottom up to the design all along
the area you are working on.
-Cleaning: After washing your brush, stand it upright to dry and
reshape it by placing a rubber band around the bristles after they
dry. Let them dry completely before using again. Wash stencils
with dish soap and warm water. If adhesive builds up on the
stencil you can use mineral spirits to remove it. If you are using
an oil based paint you'll need to clean tools with paint thinner.
Each project will have it's own instructions and variations, but
these tips should help you with small projects as well as large
adventurous jobs such as a wall border or mural. Always start
out small, and try practice projects before taking on large ones.
About the Author:
Brenda Hyde is a wife, mom to three kids and a freelance
writer. She is the editor/owner of Old Fashioned Living and sends out
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