Techniques for Stenciling!

Techniques for Stenciling:

There are several ways to apply paint through a stencil.  The most common techniques for applying paint for a wall stencil are using a paint roller, sponge or large stippling brush.  All these methods cover larger areas very quickly.

To apply paint on smaller stencils for arts and crafts, signs, fabric, or a canvas you may choose from  a variety of tools and techniques:

A stippling brush is a blunt stiff natural bristled brush which gives a dotted effect when simply pouncing or dabbing the stencil tool straight up and down over the stencil. This technique also works well with daubers and sponges.  Each will give a unique look from stark to soft depending on the amount of paint and pressure you use.

Many stencil masters prefer using a circular motion technique with their brush by simply holding the brush at a 90° angle to the surface and then lightly move the brush in a circular movement clockwise then counter-clockwise beginning around the edges of the stencil and working inward.

Using a Pallet knife has become very popular with both thick paint and plaster.  Simply load the pallet knife with paint or plaster and glaze over the stencil openings and then carefully remove the stencil to reveal the raised design.

A dauber is a small wood dowel with a circular sponge on the end and works well on smaller projects.  The effect is a soft even paint application.

Using a sea sponge gives an interesting effect like no other.  If you are looking for a textured look this would be a good choice.

A spouncer is a small circular sponge on the end of a wooden handle and allows for a bit heavier application of paint. It is wise to off-load some of the paint before applying with this tool.