Stenciling is an art that doesn’t require too much equipment and too much material. It is very cost friendly. It is an art that caters to almost all ages. Children, teens and adults can design their own stencils. Moreover, children can create their stencils using the patterns of older people. Stencil designs tell the character of a person. Stencil artists choose their materials and equipment according to the project that they are working on.
Stencil materials and equipment are readily available in stores. Choosing the right material and equipment is very important to ensure a quality project. Nonetheless, it is important that an individual knows what to do before dwelling in stenciling. Stenciling steps are very easy. Here are some steps to follow when you decide to do a stencil project.
1.) Clean the façade that will be stenciled. Be sure that is properly prepared and has no shedding paint. Use a chalk when marking a line. Pencils are hard to erase and may smudge on the surface. Use a masking tape when attaching a stencil.
2.) When constructing a border stencil on a room wall, start opposite corner facing the door.
3.) Acrylic paint- wet the brush into the paint and wipe off most of the paint in a paper. Too much paint will give the pattern shabby edges.
4.) When attaching the stencil to any surface, make sure that you leave no space where paint can seep in. When using masking tape or scotch tape, push the stencil tightly and make sure that it doesn’t come off.
5.) Different colors come in different time. The color with the lightest shade should be applied first. Dry the first color first before applying another color.
6.) Use an up and down stippling motion when applying the paint.
7.) Begin applying paint on the outside of the stencils.
8.) Use very clean brush and stencils to avoid problems.
9.) Too much paint will damage the stencil pattern.
10.) Clean the stencil frequently in hot water with soap.
11.) Check the back of the stencil for any paint marks.
12.) Shed off the paint from the brush.
13.) Soak stencils and brushes in turpentine.
When using fabric, wash the fabric first to remove softener and size. Softener and size makes the paint sticks to the coating. Put the stencil normally. Put some extra masking tape on the sides of the stencil.
Wear a mask to avoid exhaling too much of the aroma of the paint that will use. Too much paint may affect your health. Never ever leave materials that are soaked in turpentine in the open. These materials can catch fire if they are left unattended.
There are different kinds of stenciling but almost all of these kinds follow the instructions and tips that were mentioned above. Observing cleanliness and accuracy are traits that an individual need to succeed in stenciling. Being prepared with the materials and equipment are also necessary. An individual must not venture into stenciling when she doesn’t have the complete requirements.
Stenciling is a very delicate art. It requires outmost concentration and dedication. It is an art that talks about intricate details and accuracy. Many people have succeeded in capturing and mastering the art of stenciling. It is up to an individual if he will regard stenciling as his passion or merely a hobby.