What is the material made of?
All of our stencils are made of transparent blue 7 mil mylar plastic. It’s about as thick as an index card. It’s thin, flexible and see-through.
What can I stencil on?
The most common surfaces are wood, canvas, fabric, walls. Really anything you want to paint!
Can I reuse the stencil?
Yes! As long as you are using craft paint or latex paint, all of my stencils can be washed with hot water and soap. I do suggest you wash it as soon after you’re done painting as possible. That always makes it easier to clean. But, if you get a little lazy sometimes (like me), you can use the stencil a few times before cleaning becomes necessary. Once there’s too much paint built up on the stencil, you won’t get those nice crisp edges.
How do I clean the stencil?
As soon as you are finished with your painting, soak it in hot soapy water for a few minutes. Be careful not to break any of the bridges or bend the stencil. They aren’t indestructible 🙂 Then pat to dry with a soft cloth or paper towels. I store mine in one of the large, flat under the bed totes or I’ve heard some people hang them.
What kind of paint can I use?
Craft paint and Latex paint are the most common and the easiest to clean.
If you venture into the Oil-based paints, Spray paints or Airbrush paint, you’ll have to get something stronger and more harsh to clean the stencil, but you can use any paint that works for your project.
What kind of brushes do you suggest?
I use stencil brushes. What is a stencil brush? It is a round brush with short, firmly packed bristles. Some people use the small paint rollers to make quick work of stenciling. You will be more likely to have problems with your paint bleeding under the stencil, so I don’t suggest it. But to each his own.
How do I prevent the paint from bleeding under my stencil?
The most common mistake people make when stenciling is having too much paint on their brush to begin with. You have to do at least two (sometimes three) light coats of paint to avoid bleeding. If you still have bleeding, you can use an adhesive spray to temporarily stick your stencil to your surface. I suggest using one when stenciling on canvas and fabric. I’ve used Elmer’s Brand Multi-Purpose Spray Adhesive and Krylon Easy Tack.
Do you do custom stencils?
I do! I just can’t guarantee how long it will take me. It always depends on my workload, and that varies day to day.
Contact me and I will see what I can do for you.
How long does it take to get my stencil once I purchase it?
Your package will be shipped within 1-2 business days. No weekend shipping.
I ship First Class Package, which the USPS state is 2-5 business days depending on your location.
Do you ship Internationally?
Only to Canada.
Sorry for any inconvenience.
What's your return policy?
I accept returns if you contact me within 5 days of delivery. Customer pays return shipping. Refund will be given once I receive the product back to me in new condition.
Do you have a catalog?
I do not.
How can I contact you if I have a question?
oakland.stencil@yahoo.com