Welcome to the wonderful world of stencilling!

Painting with stencils is actually incredibly easy. However, like with anything else, there are a few tricks of the trade that will help you achieve exceptional results.

1. A dry brush is key.

When you load your stencil brush with paint, ensure most of it is tapped off again. A cloth or paper will work. This is key in achieving crisp lines.

2. Tape stencil into position, then tap the brush up and down.

Another method you can try is swirling the brush.

Walk your fingers along the stencil, holding it down as you move along, to ensure it doesn’t move.

You can also use stencil adhesive if desired, however my suggestion is to practice so you don’t require it.

As with any hobby, you’ll want to stock some basic supplies.

I suggest to gather these things up, and have them all nearby before you start. There is nothing quite like having to run alllllll the way upstairs, while juggling four invaluable stencil brushes threatening to dry up on you.

Items You’ll Need…

• good lighting – natural light is best
• a work table
• a big roll of paper to protect surfaces
• something flat-ish to pour paint into
• something to off load paint from the brush (rag or plank of wood)
• container of water
• stencil brush
• other specialty paint brushes
• a box of plastic sandwich bags (to store wet paint brushes)
• plastic wrap (for wet paint brushes or to cover trays)
• high density sponge roller – useful for glass
• masking tape
• measuring tape and pencil
• scissors – helpful to reduce the footprint of the outer stencil in tight areas
• stencil spray adhesive – optional
• paint of choice (I use Fusion Mineral Paint)
• storage means for stencils (I created a trolly you will see below)
• storage for paint supplies nearby