Create One-of-a-Kind Decorating Designs with Stencils

Handmade decorating ideas are quickly gaining popularity.

Stenciling is a decorating technique that uses cutouts to transfer patterns onto walls, ceilings, floors, furniture and just about any surface you can imagine. Do-it-yourselfers can buy pre-made stencil designs or you can make your own stencils. Either way, the result is a one-of-a-kind look for your home or office.

8 Steps for a Perfect Stencil Design

1. Measure the stencil, then measure the area to be stenciled. Divide the stencil measurement into the area measurement to determine how many times to repeat the design. Use any remaining inches for spacing between repeats.

2. Give the stencil area a fresh coat of paint, if needed.

3. Practice the technique beforehand by taping the stencil to a sheet of paper and applying paint or other medium, until you feel confident with the process.

4. Place the stencil at a pre-determined starting point and use low tack tape such as painter’s tape to secure it to the surface.

5. For a multicolored design, work with one color at a time, using a different stencil for each color. Plan first to stencil the color that’s used the most. Let each color dry thoroughly, then position the stencil for another color and apply, until the entire design is finished.

6. Apply the stencil paint with an almost-dry brush or roller, stroking away from the edges toward the middle. Use several light coats to fill the cutouts and keep it from seeping under the edges.

7. Un-tape the stencil and lift it carefully, straight up. Clean the back of the stencil, before moving on to the next area to be stenciled.

8. After all the colors are thoroughly dry, apply a coat of clear polyurethane varnish with a smooth roller, if you want to make the surface washable or preserve the stenciling longer.

Creative Effects

● For an antiqued effect on walls, dab acrylic paints or watercolors on the surface with half-inch strips of sponge or rags.

● Use acrylic or deck paints for stenciling floors.

● For stenciling glass, polished metal or varnished furniture, use Japan colors.

● Crayons or poster paints work well for stenciling paper.

Create Custom Cut Stencil Signs at PlaqueMaker

Our custom cut stencil signs can be used as a stencil for handmade stenciling design projects, or as a sign itself, for indoor or outdoor use. Available in plastic, stainless steel and titanium, you can choose from a variety of colors including metal tones. Custom cut your message from t.he standard type fonts and include clip art images, or request your own. Stencil signs are custom cut up to 5-inches by 2-inches or 48-inches by 96-inches.