Stencils: tips of how to use, clean and more

Stencils .. have you tried them?

I have been using stencils more lately. In the past I have had reservations about them having had issues like oozing paint under the edges. This is easily solved with the "less is more" theory; you need way less paint on your brush or roller when stenciling. It is way easier to add paint then it is to take away or touch up the irregular edges caused by too much paint.

These are some I have to try from Cutting Edge Stencils, I am most excited to do the large mandala (above left) on my deck as well as the smaller version on a furniture piece.

The pretty lily scroll (above left as well) was used on this cedar armoire

I am finding just the right piece for this pretty alphabet stencil

 Here are some from Muddaritaville Studio, you can see the ruler one here, the mandala on stool seats here and the multi design one on a trinket box here 

These ones are from The Stencil Warehouse that I have yet to use but were choices in the stencil giveaway. I have used this one from them in the videos below on 2 coffee tables; a round one and an octagonal one

brush or roller? I like a stencil brush for small areas and the roller for larger areas but again be sure to off load either choice on a piece of cardboard or paper towel before going over the stencil. Here is a quick video I did stenciling a mandala

And here is the reveal

Once the stencil is complete I like to toss mine in the bath tub to soak then use a scrub brush to remove the paint left on it.

Here is a video of a sweet stencil going on a vintage corner cabinet

Stencils are perfect for raised embossing too, check out how I used this stencil and embossing paste on this jewelry box post, this jewelry box post and this cute coral nightstand

I picked this stencil up at Michael's and used it on this antique cabinet/dresser

as well as on this cute coffee table

There are so many uses for stencils, feel free to share your creations in the comments!

Disclosure: Cutting Edge Stencils is an affiliate link, affiliate links do not increase the buyers price but rather gives a small commission to the affiliate associate that in turn helps to keep the How To Blog posts FREE to everyone. If you do happen to order via my affiliate link I thank you!! It is appreciated.

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